Leaders with Ambition

Ambition UK
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Welcome to Leaders with Ambition, the podcast that dives deep into the careers of some of the most successful leaders working in professional services firms. We aim to discover the secrets behind their success, the challenges they face and to find out what traits make a successful leader. About the host: Nicky Acuna Ocana is the Regional Managing Director of Ambition, an international recruitment agency specialising in business services recruitment (Finance, Accounting, BD, Marketing, Insolvency, Restructuring and Corporate Finance) in professional services firms.

  1. 3D AGO

    Ep. 90 Gillian Ward-''Everything in life happens for a reason, you might not know it at the time.”

    In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Gillian Ward, Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer at Reed Smith. Gillian shares her remarkable career journey from growing up in a small town in South Yorkshire to leading global marketing and business development functions at some of the world’s most prestigious international law firms. Starting her career in the steel and engineering industries, Gillian made a bold and unexpected transition into legal marketing, a move sparked by a chance conversation on a plane that ultimately shaped the rest of her professional life.Throughout the conversation, Gillian reflects on the power of mentorship and sponsorship, the importance of building trusted networks, and the courage required to take risks before you feel ready. She speaks candidly about navigating imposter syndrome, leading through complexity, and what it truly means to move from management into leadership. The episode also explores Gillian’s instrumental role in helping to establish the Legal Marketing Association (LMA) in London and Europe, her experience leading transatlantic teams across the US, UK, and Europe, and the realities of running global businesses in markets that are culturally and commercially very different. Gillian also shares deeply personal reflections on balancing a demanding international career with motherhood, raising twins while travelling extensively, and the sacrifices and rewards, that come with ambition. This is an honest, thoughtful, and inspiring conversation for anyone navigating leadership, growth, and global careers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gillian's Journey 02:52 Career Transition: From Engineering to Legal Marketing 05:30 The Importance of Mentorship and Networking 08:08 Building Relationships with Managing Partners 10:56 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 13:33 Creating a Supportive Network 16:35 Establishing the Legal Marketing Association in Europe 19:17 Navigating Global Roles and Cultural Differences 22:01 The Impact of COVID-19 on Leadership 24:50 Balancing Career and Motherhood 27:39 Challenges and Opportunities for CMOs in Law Firms 30:27 Words of Wisdom for Future Generations

    47 min

  2. FEB 23

    Ep. 89 Alistair Johnson- ''Treat people with kindness, you never know when your paths will cross again.”

    In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuna Ocana welcomes Alistair Johnson, an experienced Chief Operating Officer and senior change and transformation leader whose career began in the British Army before spanning technology, consulting, and professional services.Alistair shares his journey from a formative start at Sandhurst and operational tours in the British Army to senior leadership roles within large, international organisations and leading law firms, including Clifford Chance and RPC.He reflects candidly on how early exposure to leadership under pressure shaped his people‑first philosophy and his ability to remain calm in high‑stakes environments.Throughout the conversation, Alistair offers powerful insights into the transition from management to leadership, the importance of humility, and why empowering others is the hallmark of effective leadership.He discusses navigating imposter syndrome, the value of mentoring and sponsorship, and how intentional career decisions, including moves between large organisations, SMEs, and start‑ups shaped his path.Alistair also explores the evolving challenges facing professional services leaders today, from rising costs and talent pressures to AI, automation, and the need to balance profitability with wellbeing. With practical wisdom and honest reflection, this episode is packed with lessons for emerging and experienced leaders alike.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Alistair Johnson02:01 Alistair's Military Background and Early Career09:12 Transitioning to Civilian Life and Corporate Roles16:14 Lessons from Startups and Challenges Faced19:54 Finding a Role in Law Firms and Embracing New Opportunities26:08 Leadership Lessons and Collaborative Work27:09 The Importance of Empowering Teams31:32 Career Transitions and the Role of Mentorship35:56 Navigating Challenges as a COO40:36 The Evolving Landscape of Professional Services46:54 Managing Stress and Prioritising Workloads50:53 Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Professionals

    53 min

  3. FEB 9

    Ep. 88 Nicola Meritt - ''Resilience isn’t toughness it’s having space for things to go wrong'

    In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuna Ocana welcomes Nicola Merritt, Founder & CEO of Cortus Advisory Group.Nicola shares her journey from growing up in the North of England in an entrepreneurial family to building and scaling a multi-office advisory firm. From selling handmade gifts at primary school to founding and leading a fast-growing professional services business, Nicola’s story is one of focus, discipline, and bold decision-making.Throughout the conversation, Nicola reflects on her early career ambitions, her formative years at KPMG, and the pivotal moments that led her to step away from partnership to launch her own firm during the COVID period. She offers thoughtful insights into modern leadership, the importance of culture, empathy, resilience, and why creating space to think is essential for long-term success.Nicola also speaks openly about confidence, motherhood, managing pressure, personal growth, and redefining what success truly means both professionally and personally. This episode is packed with practical wisdom for leaders, founders, and anyone navigating ambition alongside real life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nicola Merritt 02:05 Growing Up in the North: Early Influences 04:42 The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Crafting and Selling 06:09 Education and Career Path: KPMG Experience 09:54 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship 11:40 The Inflection Point: Launching Cortis Advisory Group 14:30 The Importance of Mentorship 17:07 Building Networks: Internal and External 19:03 Creating a Strong Company Culture 21:29 Listening to Every Voice in the Organisation 22:38 The Importance of Listening and Communication 23:24 Reflecting on Leadership Styles 24:33 The Six Pillars of Effective Leadership 28:09 The Role of Empathy in Leadership 30:35 Personal Growth and Work-Life Balance 34:04 The Importance of Self-Care and Recovery 37:40 Supporting Female Leaders and Advocacy 40:33 Challenges in the Industry and Future Outlook 43:03 Words of Wisdom for Young Leaders

    44 min

  4. JAN 26

    Ep. 87 Seema Jones- ''You have to take ownership of your career and decide what you want.''

    In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuna Ocana welcomes Seema Jones, CFO & COO at Town Legal. Seema shares her journey from her upbringing in Manchester and Bolton to holding dual executive roles at a leading law firm. She offers candid insights on the transition from management to leadership, the power of networks, and the importance of resilience and continuous learning. Seema discusses her varied career across global corporations, SMEs, and the public sector, highlighting the value of adaptability, the impact of mentoring, and the challenges of balancing work and family life. She also reflects on the evolving landscape of professional services, including the rise of AI and the critical role of culture in attracting and retaining talent. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Seema Jones and Key Themes 01:50 Seema’s Early Life and Career Origins 02:46 Discovering Accounting 05:06 Qualifying as a Chartered Accountant 05:36 Moving into Industry 07:01 Life on the Trading Floor 07:49 Leadership Responsibilities in Manchester 09:33 Using Networks to Create Career Opportunities 10:33 Career Break and Family Priorities 11:21 Public Sector Experience and New Perspectives 13:26 Joining Towne Meagle as Finance Director 14:03 Combining the CFO and COO Roles 15:59 Adapting to the Legal Profession 17:49 Building a Strong Legal Sector Network 19:47 Ownership, Resilience and Leadership Mindset 23:22 Vulnerability, Flexibility and Career Choices 24:55 Transitioning from Management to Leadership 26:52 The Value of Mentoring28:13 Continuous Learning and Career Development 30:14 In‑Person Learning vs Remote Work 34:25 Volunteering and Work‑Life Balance 35:08 Key Challenges Facing Leaders Today 37:52 Culture, Retention and Attracting Talent 39:05 Legacy and Long‑Term Impact 40:12 Values, Integrity and Resilience 42:14 Taking Safe Risks and Trusted Advisors 43:30 Leading Across Cultures 45:05 Words of Wisdom for Future Leaders 46:00 Closing Reflections

    40 min

  5. JAN 13

    Ep. 86 Rhys Madoc- “Being a leader is not about knowing all the answers, but about making sure together we can get the solutions.”

    In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuna Ocana welcomes Rhys Madoc, CEO of UHY International. Rhys shares his journey from a childhood steeped in the arts to leading a global accounting and consulting network, offering insights on leadership, culture, innovation, and the importance of continuous learning. Rhys discusses his transition from the world of theatre and television to international business, the challenges and rewards of building teams across cultures, and the evolving role of technology and AI in professional services. He also reflects on the legacy he hopes to leave and shares practical advice for aspiring leaders. ​ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rhys Madoc's Journey 01:21 Exploring Career Goals and Progression 04:21 The Importance of International Business 09:33 Cultural Significance in Professional Services 09:48 Networking in Professional Services 12:14 Leadership Development and Personal Growth 13:11 The Role of Mentoring in Career Advancement 14:23 Work-Life Balance and Stress Management 15:17 Addressing Imposter Syndrome 16:22 Challenges in Professional Services 17:23 Legacy and Words of Wisdom for Future Leaders

    42 min

  6. 12/09/2025

    Ep. 85 Connor Kinnear- ''Networking is about being authentic and making work fun.''

    In this episode of the Leaders with Ambition podcast, Connor Kinnear shares his remarkable journey from door-to-door sales to becoming the CMO of Passle. He discusses the importance of resilience, networking, and the challenges faced in marketing roles, particularly within law firms. Connor emphasizes the transformative impact of AI on marketing and the significance of hiring the right talent. He also offers valuable insights on managing stress and maintaining a work-life balance, concluding with words of wisdom for future generations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Connor Kinnear 02:25 Early Career and Sales Experience 06:53 Transitioning from Law to Business 09:28 Corporate Experience and Career Decisions 10:45 The Importance of Diverse Experiences 14:14 Moving to Diageo and Marketing Insights 18:36 Becoming CMO and Creative Freedom 22:01 Journey to Passel and Innovative Marketing Strategies 26:17 Personalized Marketing Strategies 27:48 The Birth of Passel 29:13 Transitioning to Sales Leadership 30:53 Navigating the Startup Environment 32:43 Focusing on the Legal Market 34:06 Building Trust and Relationships 34:55 The Importance of Networking 39:19 Managing Stress and Burnout 41:54 The Role of CMOs in Law Firms 46:29 Embracing AI in Marketing 48:44 Hiring and Retaining Talent 50:33 Words of Wisdom for Future Generations

    51 min

  7. 11/17/2025

    Ep. 84 Koree Khongphand-Buckman - ''We’re all in it together. If you’re in it for yourself, you’re in the wrong group.

    In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuna Ocana welcomes Koree Khongphand-Buckman, Chief Marketing & Business Development Officer at Foley & Lardner. Koree shares her journey from a small-town upbringing in Wyoming to leading marketing and business development at a major law firm, offering insights on resilience, team leadership, and the power of mentorship. Koree discusses her transition from public accounting to legal marketing, the challenges and rewards of building high-performing teams, and the importance of collaboration and continuous learning. She also reflects on the evolving role of technology and AI in legal marketing, and the legacy she hopes to leave in the industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Career Journey 02:05 Transitioning from Accounting to Law 06:03 The Importance of Mentoring 09:02 Paying Mentorship Forward 12:00 Finding Passion in Legal Marketing 16:02 Building Relationships and Collaboration 20:47 The Generosity of the Legal Marketing Community 21:08 Transitioning to Leadership Roles 26:09 Navigating the CMBDO Transition 28:44 Building Relationships in Leadership 31:51 Managing Stress and Avoiding Burnout 35:15 The Importance of Team Dynamics 37:22 Professional Development and Growth 41:33 Creating a Collaborative Environment 44:09 Adapting to AI and Technology in Law Firms 49:39 Legacy and Impact in the Industry 51:30 Words of Wisdom for Newcomers

    51 min

  8. 10/20/2025

    Ep. 83 Kelly MacKinnon - “Nothing replaces hard work. The climb never gets easier, it just gets different.”

    In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuna Ocana sits down with Kelly MacKinnon, Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer at Gibson Dunn. Kelly shares her remarkable journey from Olympic hockey hopeful to leading marketing and business development at one of the world’s top law firms. She discusses the lessons learned from elite sport, the importance of intentional career moves, and how she’s built a reputation for positivity, authenticity, and team leadership in the legal sector Chapters00:00 Introduction to Kelly McKinnon's Journey02:28 From Sports to Marketing: Kelly's Unique Path09:15 Finding Home in Legal Marketing11:37 Transitioning from Management to Leadership18:15 The Importance of Networking and Mentorship21:39 Investing in Yourself: The Role of Coaching24:20 Building a Strong Team26:51 Coping with Burnout and Imposter Syndrome31:09 Personal Qualities for Success35:09 Encouraging Continuous Learning36:43 Lessons from the Big Four40:42 Current Challenges in Law Firms44:38 Words of Wisdom for Success

    44 min
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About

Welcome to Leaders with Ambition, the podcast that dives deep into the careers of some of the most successful leaders working in professional services firms. We aim to discover the secrets behind their success, the challenges they face and to find out what traits make a successful leader. About the host: Nicky Acuna Ocana is the Regional Managing Director of Ambition, an international recruitment agency specialising in business services recruitment (Finance, Accounting, BD, Marketing, Insolvency, Restructuring and Corporate Finance) in professional services firms.

Information

  • Creator
    Ambition UK
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    90
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Ambition UK
  • Show Website
    Leaders with Ambition