5 lessons from lawyer-CEOs
Drawing on our research with 120 legal professionals, and in-depth interviews with lawyers like Duncan Wales and Robert Booth, we’ve distilled five key takeaways for lawyers aspiring to business leadership.
1. It’s not just about knowing the law – it’s about knowing the business
It’s not enough just to be a brilliant lawyer. What separates General Counsel from CEOs is the ability to step into the commercial mindset – seeing the whole playing field and advising not just on what’s legal, but what’s strategic.
2. GCs who make it to CEO actively shape their own path
These people didn’t wait to be noticed, they designed their own career. They took on stretch roles, sought out influence, and made moves that pushed them beyond the legal function.
3. Their journey isn’t always linear
Many GC-CEOs didn’t follow a straight path. They pivoted, took risks, gained qualifications and explored different company cultures until the right opportunity aligned.
4. Becoming CEO means rethinking everything – including yourself
Making the leap isn’t just about acquiring new skills – it’s about shifting perspective, too. These leaders had to upskill fast, challenge their own assumptions and find meaning in new aspects of the business.
5. Success stories help light the way for others
When a GC becomes CEO, it sends a powerful message: this path is possible. Their experiences – both the highs and the hard lessons – help create a roadmap for others to follow.