Beyond Billables: Lessons from Top Law Firm Partners

Stephen Rodney

The legal sector thrives on talent, but how do you ensure partner success, both generally and in relation to how new hires integrate and succeed? Hosted by Stephen Rodney, founder of IntoGreat Coaching, which provides tailor made integration programmes for laterals and, previously a veteran of partner legal recruitment. Beyond Billables is the essential podcast for law firm leaders and in house GCs. Stephen draws on both his recent coaching experience and his previous recruitment life as a co-founder of a leading recruitment boutique (including being responsible for one of the UK's largest-ever team moves), to look at the essential elements necessary to produce both successful partners and also other senior lawyers and to look at the critical challenge of effective senior lawyer integration. Join Stephen as he speaks with successful partners, other industry experts and legal innovators. Follow Beyond Billables to ensure you absorb the lessons told by the successful partners interviewed!

  1. The Nonlinear Career Journey for Female Lawyers to Make Partner on Their Own Terms with Vicki Wick

    17H AGO

    The Nonlinear Career Journey for Female Lawyers to Make Partner on Their Own Terms with Vicki Wick

    In this episode of Beyond Billables: Lessons from Top Law Firm Partners, host Stephen Rodney speaks with Vicky Wickremeratne, senior employment partner at Simmons & Simmons. The conversation explores what it really takes to build a successful legal career across private practice and in-house roles. Vicky shares her non linear career journey, the skills that matter most for partners, and how relationship building, adaptability, and self awareness shape long term success in the law. Vicky Wick built a broad career across private practice and senior in-house roles, including working in London and Hong Kong. Her experience spans major law firms and global financial institutions, giving her a deep understanding of leadership, client relationships, and career development within the legal profession. Expect to LearnWhy relationship building is central to success as a law firm partnerThe key differences between in-house and private practice legal workHow lateral partners can integrate successfully into new firmsThe impact of working parenthood on career decisions and progressionWhy feedback, mentorship, and self awareness matter in leadership roles Episode Breakdown with Timestamps[00:00] – Teaser[00:59] – Welcome & Introduction to Beyond Billables with Vicky Wickremeratne[04:27] – Core Skills of a Successful Partner: Relationships and Communication[07:25] – Connecting with People: Lessons from Bartending and Waitressing[10:06] – In-House vs. Private Practice: Delivering Pithy, Commercial Advice[13:00] – The Fascination of Employment Law: People and Strategy[18:40] – Moving Jobs While Pregnant or on Maternity Leave[20:58] – Non-Linear Careers and the Value of Lateral Moves[25:30] – Integration Plans and the Importance of Early Stakeholder Meetings[28:18] – Mentors and Role Models: Karen Ish, Goldman Sachs Leaders, and Feedback Culture[32:43] – The Surprise of Partnership: Leadership Shadow and Shifting Tents[38:12] – Hybrid Working: Balancing Flexibility with the Apprenticeship Model[40:28] – Networking as Friendship: Staying in Touch Through Life and Bruce Springsteenli...

    44 min
  2. Law Firm Metrics for Partners to Lead Profitably and Build Stronger Teams with Jeanette Burgess

    FEB 17

    Law Firm Metrics for Partners to Lead Profitably and Build Stronger Teams with Jeanette Burgess

    In this episode of Beyond Billables: Lessons from Top Law Firm Partners, host Stephen Rodney sits down with Jeanette Burgess, Managing Partner at Walker Morris, one of the UK’s leading independent law firms. Jeanette shares her career journey from aspiring police officer to leading a top firm, offering candid insights into her time in-house, her return to private practice, and her transition into law firm leadership. She discusses the real challenges of partnership, the impact of AI on the legal sector, and the importance of resilience, curiosity, and communication in sustaining a legal career. Jeanette Burgess has nearly three decades of legal experience. She began in private practice before spending time in-house at Provident Group, and later built Walker Morris’s regulatory team from the ground up. Elected to the board in 2015 and appointed Managing Partner in 2024, she brings deep insight into leadership, regulatory law, and evolving law firm dynamics. Expect to Learn: How Jeanette’s in-house experience shaped her success in private practice and firm leadershipThe overlooked skills needed for successful law firm partnership beyond legal expertiseWhat makes lateral hires succeed or fail and how culture plays a bigger role than you might thinkWhy AI is both a challenge and an opportunity for the legal professionJeanette’s top lessons from managing partner life, including resilience, client service, and staying curious Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [00:00] – Teaser[00:47] – Introduction to the Podcast and Guest Jeanette Burgess[01:39] – Jeanette’s Early Career: From Police Aspirations to Law[03:49] – Moving In-House and Return to Private Practice at Walker Morris[08:14] – Walker Morris’s “Forge” Programme for Future Partners[11:46] – In-House vs. Private Practice: Different Skills and Environments[14:09] – The Challenges and Loneliness of Being an In-House Lawyer[20:52] – Decision-Making, Patience, and the Value of Sleep[24:16] – Lateral Hiring: Why Some Succeed and Others Fail[27:25] – Integrating Laterals and Learning from Their Experience[30:11] – The Critical Early Months for Lateral Integration[35:40] – The Impact of AI on Learning, Work, and Firm Structureli...

    55 min
  3. KC Success Traits for Aspiring Barristers to Thrive in High-Stakes Cases with Jeff Chapman KC

    FEB 10

    KC Success Traits for Aspiring Barristers to Thrive in High-Stakes Cases with Jeff Chapman KC

    In this special episode of Beyond Billables, host Stephen Rodney steps outside the usual realm of law firm partners to sit down with a senior King’s Counsel, Jeff Chapman KC. With decades of experience at the top of the commercial bar, Jeff brings a wealth of insight into what it takes to succeed as a KC in today’s complex legal landscape. The conversation explores Jeff’s professional journey, the evolution of the barristers' profession, and the role of leadership, preparation, and purpose in delivering legal excellence. Jeff Chapman KC is a leading commercial barrister at Fountain Court Chambers, one of London's elite sets. He began his career after studying at Sussex University and Cambridge, and worked at the Law Commission on the Computer Misuse Act before being called to the Bar in 1989. With over 35 years of experience, Jeff has acted in major fraud, dishonesty, and commercial litigation cases, and is known for his sharp advocacy, legal intellect, and practical approach to complex disputes. Expect to Learn:What makes a successful KC and how preparation remains the cornerstone of legal excellence.Why teamwork and communication matter even in a traditionally solo profession like the Bar.Behind-the-scenes insights into high-profile cases, including the Mike Ashley trial and Olympic showjumping disputes.How the commercial bar is evolving with more diversity and changing client expectations.Jeff’s thoughts on AI, cybersecurity, and the future challenges for young barristers. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:00] – Teaser[00:44] – Welcome to Beyond Billables & Introduction of KC Jeff Chapman[04:25] – Diversity at the Bar: Oxbridge Perceptions and Changing Demographics[08:57] – The Evolution of Team Dynamics in Modern Bar Practice[10:46] – The Reality of Case Preparation and Imposter Syndrome[12:45] – Transitioning to Silk: How Practice Changes After Taking Silk[15:34] – Memorable Instructing Firms: A Bad Experience and a Good One[18:03] – Representing an Irish Showjumper at the 2012 Olympics[20:54] – The Mike Ashley Case: Cross-Examination in the Horse & Groom Pub[24:55] – The Group Seven Litigation: A Magnificent Fraud Case[28:27] – Jan Marsalek, Wirecard, and Unusual Client Stories[31:58] – The Economics of the Bar vs. Law Firmsspan...

    54 min
  4. How Senior Lawyers Navigate Lateral Moves Without Losing Clients or Momentum with Joanne Owen

    FEB 3

    How Senior Lawyers Navigate Lateral Moves Without Losing Clients or Momentum with Joanne Owen

    In this episode of Beyond Billables, host Stephen Rodney interviews Joanne Owen, Global Co-Head of the Real Estate Sector at DLA Piper. Joanne shares his career journey, leadership insights, and what it takes to be a successful law firm partner. With over 20 years of experience in law, Joanne talks about his transition from DLA to Proskauer and back, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Joanne's experience spans multiple continents and legal environments, including both UK and US law firms. He offers a candid view on the challenges and rewards of lateral moves, the importance of resilience, and the evolving role of AI in legal practice. He also discusses how authenticity and hard work shape his approach to leadership. Expect to Learn: The impact of lateral moves on a legal career and the importance of thoughtful integration.Why being authentic and resilient are key traits of successful law firm partners.How the legal landscape is evolving with geopolitical complexities and the rise of AI.The importance of collaboration and trust in leadership roles. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [00:00] – Teaser [00:42] – Welcome to Beyond Billables and Introduction of Guest Joe Owens[02:55] – University and Training Contract Beginnings[05:48] – Decision to Leave DLA and Join Proskauer[07:58] – Building a Platform at Proskauer Amid Brexit[09:52] – Return to DLA Piper: Conversations and Motivation[11:11] – Client Influence and the Decision to Rejoin[13:05] – Reintegration and Client Work Upon Returning[17:13] – Traits of a Successful Partner: Resilience and Authenticity[19:35] – Differences Between UK and US Law Firm Cultures[22:14] – The Role of Likability and Client Rapport[25:59] – Lateral Hire Success and Integration Challenges[29:18] – Why Laterals Succeed or Fail: Key Factors[32:41] – The Importance of Thoughtful Lateral Integration[34:08] – Changes Upon Returning to DLA Piper[39:26] – Reflections on Regrets and Learning from...

    55 min
  5. The Failed Integrations for Law Firm Leaders to Fix Lateral Hiring with Stéphane Lemarchand

    JAN 27

    The Failed Integrations for Law Firm Leaders to Fix Lateral Hiring with Stéphane Lemarchand

    In this episode of Beyond Billables, host Stephen Rodney sits down with Stéphane Lemarchand, Partner at DLA Piper in Paris, to explore what it truly means to build a successful and sustainable legal career at the top of the profession. With over 25 years of experience in IT and digital transformation law, Stéphane shares his journey from a curious law student to a globally respected partner and leader. This conversation dives into the evolving legal landscape, the importance of building teams, and how true leadership goes beyond individual billing to influence, integrity, and impact. Stéphane Lemarchand is a Senior Partner at DLA Piper in Paris with more than two decades of experience advising multinational and domestic clients on complex digital transformation projects, IT disputes, and strategic technology transactions. A founding member of Bird & Bird’s Paris office, Stéphane later joined DLA Piper, where he served as Global Co-Chair of the IP and Technology group and as a member of the Executive Committee. His deep understanding of the tech sector and his strategic leadership have positioned him as a key figure in shaping the firm’s international growth and culture. Expect to LearnHow Stéphane transitioned from law student to partner without a legal background in his family.Why building and empowering a team is central to long-term partner success.The key differences between managing and leading within international law firms.Insights into how US and UK law firm models differ and what that means for lawyers in Europe.How consulting services, AI, and client expectations are reshaping the future of the legal industry. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps[00:00] - Teaser[00:46] – Welcome & Introduction to Beyond Billables[01:53] – Stéphane’s Journey to Law & Early Passion for IP/Tech Law[04:14] – Career Path: From Bird & Bird to Founding DLA Piper’s Paris Office[05:55] – Defining a Successful Partner: Beyond Billing to Recognition & Team Building[08:24] – The Essential Role of Team Building vs. “Lone Wolf” Partners[10:15] – Navigating US vs. UK Law Firm Cultures as a French Lawyer[15:46] – Leadership Skills vs. Partner Skills: Strategy, Consensus & Resilience[18:48] – Law Firm Leadership: Financial Success vs. Strategic Vision[21:20] – US Law Firm Dominance & The Future of Global Law Firmsspan...

    53 min
  6. What Makes Law Firm Partners Truly Successful in 2025 for Legal Leaders with Julian Stait

    JAN 21

    What Makes Law Firm Partners Truly Successful in 2025 for Legal Leaders with Julian Stait

    In this episode of Beyond Billables: Lessons from Top Law Firm Partners, host Stephen Rodney speaks with Julian Stait, co-managing Partner and Head of the London Litigation & Arbitration team at Milbank. Julian shares his remarkable career journey, from his early days as a litigator to leading one of Europe’s top dispute resolution teams. With over 30 years of experience, Julian discusses the skills and attributes required to succeed as a partner, the evolution of law firm management, and the role of empathy and integrity in leadership. Julian reflects on his transition from a litigator to a partner and his journey through multiple firms, providing valuable insights into what makes a successful partner in today’s competitive legal landscape. He also touches on the importance of technology, AI, and team dynamics in shaping the future of law firms. Expect to Learn: Key skills for success as a top law firm partner, including client handling, leadership, and integrity.The differences between UK and US law firms and how management structures are evolving.The impact of AI and technology on the legal industry, particularly in dispute resolution.How empathy and vulnerability can shape effective leadership and team collaboration.Insights into integrating laterals successfully and why cultural fit matters. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [00:00] – Introduction to the episode and guest, Julian Stait [02:26] – Julian’s journey from a classical music background to law [04:30] – Transitioning into litigation and becoming a partner at DLA Piper [08:56] – The key attributes for becoming a successful partner [10:03] – Leadership and managing large teams in law firms [15:02] – Strategic negotiation and seeing the big picture in litigation [17:07] – Comparing success between UK and US law firms [23:29] – Management challenges and the importance of listening and empathy [30:31] – Balancing practice with management roles [36:45] – Key reasons for successful integration of lateral hires [45:21] – Mentorship and key advice received during Julian’s career [52:01] – The role of AI and technology in shaping future law firm success Connect with Julian Stait: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julian-stait-7041b516/Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/milbankllp/Company’s Website: https://www.milbank.com/en/ Connect with Stephen Rodney: LinkedIn:...

    56 min
  7. The Law Firm Culture Is Causing Lateral Hire Failure and Leadership Crises with Clare Murray

    JAN 13

    The Law Firm Culture Is Causing Lateral Hire Failure and Leadership Crises with Clare Murray

    In this episode of Beyond Billables, host Stephen Rodney sits down with Clare Murray, Managing Partner at CM Murray LLP, to explore what it really takes to build a successful legal practice. From founding her firm after a life-changing health event to leading with vision and heart, Clare shares candid insights into the inner workings of partnership culture, law firm leadership, and the evolving legal landscape. This conversation is a deep dive into how collaboration, accountability, and strategic thinking define success in modern legal practice. Clare Murray is the founding partner of CM Murray LLP, a UK-based specialist law firm focused on partnership, employment law, and professional regulation. With over 20 years of leadership, Clare has built a top-ranked practice known for handling complex partnership disputes and advising senior executives and law firms. She is recognised as an Eminent Practitioner and is in the Hall of Fame in major legal directories. Clare also speaks regularly on leadership and law firm strategy, often leading discussions on partner integration, PE investment, and future-proofing law firms. Expect to Learn:What truly defines a successful law firm partner beyond billable hours.How Clare turned personal adversity into the foundation of a top-tier law firm.Why partnership culture and collaboration matter more than ever in legal practice.How private equity and AI are reshaping the future of law firms.The keys to effective partner integration and the analogy of grafting vines in firm culture. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:[00:00] – Teaser[00:59] – Welcome to Beyond Billables & Introduction of Clare Murray[03:19] – Early Influences: Family Background & Path to Law[08:02] – Defining a Successful Partner: Collaboration, Accountability & Resilience[12:51] – Remuneration Systems & Their Impact on Firm Culture and Collaboration[15:25] – Lateral Hire Integration: Challenges, Optimism & Realistic Expectations[19:13] – Rethinking Lateral Hiring: Emphasis on Potential vs. Portable Client Book[21:52] – Coaching Laterals: The "Rocket Science" of Basic Practice-Building[25:26] – Building a Practice: Internal Networks, Trust & Client Relationships[27:00] – The Transition from Jobbing Partner to Leader/Manager[30:04] – Leadership Tenure: Term Limits, Trust & Delivering the Vision[34:30] – Strategic Growth of CM Murray LLP: Client-Led Expansion & Adjacent Services[38:13] – Transformative Experience: The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program[40:00] – Leadership Lesson: The Strength in Seeking External Help[43:41] – Critical Success Factors for Laterals: Early Internal Opportunities & Culture[46:30] – Looking Ahead: Future Factors Affecting Law Firm Partner Success[47:14] – Private Equity in Law Firms: Curiosity, Due Diligence & Strategic Fit[50:17] – The Ripple Effect: Industry Education & PE Realities for Partners[52:33] – The Impact of AI: From Super-Specialist Referrals to Strategic Implementation[55:41] – Clare’s Final Points: Upcoming Events on Leadership & The Glass Cliff[56:08] – Closing Remarks & Thanks Connect with Clare Murray: LinkedIn: a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/clare-murray-cm-murrayllp/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    57 min
  8. How Law Firm Partners Succeed by Leading with Culture and Collaboration with David Stewart

    12/16/2025

    How Law Firm Partners Succeed by Leading with Culture and Collaboration with David Stewart

    In this episode of Beyond Billables, host Stephen Rodney speaks with David Stewart, Managing Director at Coriats Trust Company Limited. From his early legal roots in London to his transformative leadership at Olswang and current work with high-net-worth clients in the Turks and Caicos, David reflects on the dynamics of partnership, leadership, and building a successful career in law. This conversation offers a candid and insightful look at the evolution of law firm culture, the challenges of leadership, and the changing expectations for legal professionals today. David Stewart is a seasoned lawyer and former CEO of Olswang, where he led the firm through years of growth and change. Today, he is a partner at Griffiths and Partners (now Dentons) and managing director of Coates Trust Company in the Turks and Caicos. David's career spans decades of practice in litigation and trust management, with a strong focus on collaboration, business development, and supporting high-net-worth families globally. Expect to LearnWhy collaboration is at the heart of successful law firm partnershipsHow David transitioned from managing litigation teams to leading entire firmsWhat makes a successful lateral hire and why so many failThe importance of emotional intelligence and self-awareness in law firm leadershipHow legal careers are evolving in the face of AI and shifting partner expectations Episode Breakdown with Timestamps[00:00] – Teaser[00:53] – Welcome & Introduction to Beyond Billables & Guest David Stewart[02:06] – David’s Journey to Becoming a Lawyer & Early Career[05:06] – The Core Attributes of a Successful Law Firm Partner[09:54] – Moving from SJ Berwin to Olswang: Seeking Collaboration[11:05] – Culture & Legacy of SJ Berwin Under Stanley Berwin[14:31] – Integration Experiences When Moving Law Firms[16:54] – Reinvention at Griffiths & Partners in the Turks and Caicos[19:25] – Transitioning from Partner to Law Firm Leadership[21:31] – Qualities of Successful Law Firm Leaders[24:39] – Reflections on Olswang’s Merger with CMS[26:10] – Attributes of Success in US vs. UK Law Firms[29:53] – Why Lateral Hires Succeed or Fail[33:18] – The Insecurity of Law Firm Partners & Importance of Internal Integration[35:53] – Early Challenges at Olswang & Building a Litigation Team[37:56] – Mentors Who Shaped David’s Career[42:33] – David’s Approach to Mentoring Younger Lawyers[44:09] – Best & Worst Moments as a Partner[48:13] – The Challenges of Leading Olswang & Lessons Learned[49:44] – Reflections on What Could Have Been Done Differently[51:55] – The Future of Law Firms & the Impact of AI[54:49] – David’s Non-Negotiable Behaviours for Success[55:37] – One Golden Rule for Being a Successful Partner[56:53] – Closing Remarks & Thanks Connect with David Stewart: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-stewart-7bb2a43/Company’s Website: https://www.coriats.com/Company’s LinkedIn: a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/coriats/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    57 min
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About

The legal sector thrives on talent, but how do you ensure partner success, both generally and in relation to how new hires integrate and succeed? Hosted by Stephen Rodney, founder of IntoGreat Coaching, which provides tailor made integration programmes for laterals and, previously a veteran of partner legal recruitment. Beyond Billables is the essential podcast for law firm leaders and in house GCs. Stephen draws on both his recent coaching experience and his previous recruitment life as a co-founder of a leading recruitment boutique (including being responsible for one of the UK's largest-ever team moves), to look at the essential elements necessary to produce both successful partners and also other senior lawyers and to look at the critical challenge of effective senior lawyer integration. Join Stephen as he speaks with successful partners, other industry experts and legal innovators. Follow Beyond Billables to ensure you absorb the lessons told by the successful partners interviewed!

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