Managing lawyers is often likened to herding cats. The best law firm leaders must shape strategy and improve performance without losing the hearts and minds of the partners. The shortlist for this category throws the spotlight on six law firm leaders who have been getting it right. Joy Kingsley is one of the profession’s longest-standing managing partners, having led Pannone for 14 years. During this period it has developed from being a high street firm with a turnover of £16m into a major regional player that is hoping to break through the £50m barrier this year.
At the other end of spectrum — in terms of time in post — is Moira Gilmour, who became managing partner of Field Fisher Waterhouse on 1 April, 2006. In her first 17 months, she oversaw the firm’s conversion to a limited liability partnership, unveiled a new European strategy, including the launch of offices in
National firms are well represented on the shortlist. Peter Crossley has steered
The winner of this category, however, is TLT managing partner David Pester. Pester’s leadership has become closely associated with the success of his firm. Since becoming managing partner in 2002, he has steered TLT through two mergers, helping it to increase turnover by nearly 300% to £38m. TLT has avoided the fallout that can often accompany mergers while, crucially, keeping the clients on board — it counts 16 FTSE companies among its client base, which is growing strongly outside the firm’s southwest heartlands.
2007BritishLegalAwards
