In this debut episode of Beyond Billables, host Stephen Rodney is joined by Simon Levine, Strategic Innovation Partner and Global co-CEO and Managing Partner at DLA Piper. With over 30 years of experience in the legal industry, Simon discusses his journey from making partner to leading one of the largest global law firms. He shares valuable insights on leadership, the qualities needed to be a successful partner, and how law firm culture impacts both personal and professional growth. Simon also reflects on his experiences with lateral moves and the evolving role of technology in the legal industry.

Simon’s journey into law began with a passion for history and a love for the dramatic side of legal careers. His drive and ambition took him through top law firms, ultimately leading him to become Managing Partner and Global CEO of DLA Piper. Specializing in commercial litigation, intellectual property, and media law, Simon has worked with high-profile clients in entertainment and tech.

Expect to Learn:

• The core attributes required to be a successful law firm partner
• The role of emotional intelligence and authenticity in leadership
• Key insights into integrating into new law firm environments
• How resilience and adaptability are crucial in today’s legal landscape
• The future of law firms, including AI integration and new business models

• [00:00] - Opening Thoughts on the Changing Legal Landscape
• [00:25] - Introduction of Simon Levine and Career Overview
• [03:01] - Simon’s Path to Becoming a Law Firm Partner
• [06:01] - What Makes a Successful Partner Beyond Billing
• [08:21] - Learning Leadership and Building Relationships
• [12:24] - Simon’s First Leadership Role and Career Progression
• [14:41] - Transitioning from Partner to Leader: Key Attributes
• [17:31] - Emotional Intelligence and Authenticity in Leadership
• [24:07] - Simon’s Best and Worst Moments as a Partner
• [32:30] - Lateral Moves and the Importance of Integration
• [39:16] - Why Some Lateral Hires Succeed or Fail
• [46:05] - Leadership Lessons and the Importance of Legacy
• [49:16] - Future Skills for Partners in a Changing Legal Sector
• [53:00] - Non-Negotiable Behaviours and Simon’s Golden Rule

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonlevine/
• Company’s Website: https://www.shoosmiths.com/
• Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shoosmiths/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenmrodney/
• Company’s Website: https://www.intogreatcoaching.co.uk/
• Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/intogreat-coaching/

• Website: https://www.intogreatcoaching.co.uk/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/intogreat-coaching/