Managing a law firm in Africa: key drivers of profitability and better business development

A two-part webinar presented by the IBA Law Firm Management Committee and IBA African Regional Forum and one of a series of three webinars focused on managing a law firm in Africa

Law firms across Africa have experienced the turmoil of the last few years in very different ways. Clients have continued to rely on external lawyers for their most critical needs and many of the top law firms have been busy and financially successful, increasing both their turnover and profitability. However, others have not fared as well. Covid-19, achieving growth in a competitive market and modernisation have all presented obstacles during a time of huge economic and political uncertainty for many countries in Africa.

As we face the future, our panels of experts will address the major challenges for law firms going forward, developing stronger and more profitable client relations. We will share the lessons and learnings from law firms around the world before looking particularly at the reality for African law firms. 

2020 and 2021 were a financial roller-coaster for law firms, raising issues of cash flow, profitability, pricing and cost reduction. Our webinar will begin with an overview of the key financial challenges for law firms and how you can overcome them. Second, as clients' own priorities change, we will look at what steps can be taken to better address their needs while strengthening client relationships, and how that impacts the structure and organisation of a law firm’s marketing and business development efforts.