Small and medium-sized firms require strong and capable leadership to succeed. Very often the managing or senior partner will have a disproportionately large effect on culture, direction and performance in a smaller firm. These are issues that are now more important than ever. Leaders have distinct challenges in smaller firms. Very often they will be required to maintain or develop a client practice. They often do not have as much time to devote to management as they wish or should. They will be required to maintain, manage and coordinate the client practice. They also then need to manage and lead the firm, dealing with issues such as development of lawyers, firm culture and performance, business development and so on. This session will allow law firm leaders to reflect on panellists’ practical experiences, considering what skills and attributes are required to lead the smaller law firm as well as how to develop them.

This session should be practically helpful for all current and future law firm leaders in small and medium law firms. It should also be of assistance to those considering starting their own law firm.