The Roles and Skills of Law Firm Practice Group Leaders

The Roles and Skills of Law Firm Practice Group Leaders

Law firm practice group leaders (PGLs) play a crucial role in connecting firm leadership and individual lawyers within their practice groups. This requires a balance of leadership and management skills. According to an article by Attorney at Work, a few key areas of leadership development for PGLs include personal foundation, influence building, and results-oriented leadership.

To build a strong personal foundation, PGLs need to begin with self-awareness. They should understand their strengths, values, and areas for development to foster trust and make conscious decisions. Investing in leadership development, such as through assessments like DiSC Personality and Management Profile, helps maximize their impact authentically.

To build influence and get results, PGLs must develop an executive presence. They need to inspire confidence and handle difficult conversations with empathy. Cultivating strong networks and relationships is vital for collaboration and seizing business opportunities.

PGLs typically serve four main roles within their practice groups:

1. Chief Strategy Officer: Develops actionable strategies aligned with the firm’s vision, communicates effectively, and makes tough decisions to maximize productivity and profitability.

2. Chief Finance Officer: Demonstrates financial acumen by planning budgets, interpreting financial statements, and allocating resources effectively.

3. Chief Operations Officer: Ensures smooth day-to-day functioning by allocating resources strategically, balancing workloads, and running effective meetings.

4. Chief Talent Officer: Shapes the group’s culture, motivates and develops talent, and fosters inclusion and respect. Coaching skills are essential for helping lawyers identify strengths and growth opportunities.

Effective law firm practice group leaders combine leadership skills with practical knowledge to build thriving practice groups that deliver exceptional client service and drive long-term firm success.