How to win the commercial law game: ex-RPC boss Jonathan Watmough on leadership, strategy and why most lawyers miss the point

This is a conversation with Jonathan Watmough.

Jonathan became managing partner of City firm RPC at just 38. Over the next decade, he repositioned it through the global financial crisis, a shifting legal market and the rise of aggressive lateral hiring. He stepped down in 2016, and has since worn several hats: performance coach, consultant and most recently, non-executive chair of the newly independent litigation specialist Rosenblatt.

He recently published How to Thrive in a Commercial Law Firm, a book gaining traction among mid-career lawyers and law firm leaders and which is all about helping lawyers make the most of their careers.

In this conversation, Jonathan shares his journey from an accidental lawyer to a managing partner at RPC, discussing the challenges and opportunities within the legal profession. He emphasises the importance of differentiation, leadership, and understanding client needs.

He also highlights the significance of emotional intelligence and relationship-building in achieving success in law. He provides insights from his book, and offers practical advice for junior lawyers on navigating their careers and finding their fit within the world of commercial law.

Chapters

00:40 Introduction to Jonathan
03:42 The Accidental Lawyer
06:31 Navigating the Legal Landscape
09:29 Opportunities in Crisis
12:35 Leadership Lessons from RPC
15:37 Role at Rosenblatt and Lessons for Listed Firms
18:47 The Future of Law Firms
21:38 Insights from 'How to Thrive in a Commercial Law Firm'
32:53 The Importance of Commercial Awareness in Law
40:12 Transitioning from Lawyer to Business Person
47:22 Work-Life Balance in Legal Careers
55:17 Future Client Needs and Career Advice