Leadership elections at the UK’s two largest firms – Clifford Chance and Eversheds – plus John Rink’s decision to stand down early as Allen & Overy’s managing partner have all conspired to drag the issue of law firm leadership to the forefront of many partners’ minds.
One management consultant recently suggested privately to Legal Week that partnership elections are not the best way to choose law firm leaders.
“Many of the strongest leaders, such as DLA’s Nigel Knowles, emerge within their firms through a process of consensus, rather than a contested battle,” he said.
