Guest Notes

Kate Barton, the Global CEO of Dentons, the world's largest law firm with a presence in over 80 countries, leads the firm's global strategy and operations with a focus on delivering high-quality service, retaining top talent, and business growth. In addition to her role at Dentons, she serves on the board of SharkNinja, a NYSE-listed company, and is involved with several not-for-profit organizations, including the Ireland Fund, the All Stars Project, and the Shanti Bhavan Children’s Project. She also contributes to advisory councils at Boston College Law and Boston University School of Management. Kate retired from EY in 2023, where she was Global Vice Chair of Tax, Law, and People Advisory Services, and a member of EY’s Global Executive Board, leading thousands of professionals across 150 countries in strategy, operations, and innovation, driving EY’s global tax practice to the top in brand and market share. Her educational background includes a B.S. from Boston University, a J.D. from Boston College Law School, and an LL.M. in Taxation from Boston University School of Law, along with executive programs at Kellogg and Harvard. She is NACD Director Certified and qualified as a financial expert under SEC, NYSE, and NASDAQ rules.

Kate Barton|LinkedIn

Key Takeaways

1. The Importance of Soft Skills in Legal Practice

• Kate Barton emphasizes that skills like empathy, emotional intelligence, and the ability to explain complex issues simply are crucial for lawyers. These skills are not just "nice to have" but essential for effectively navigating client relationships and complex situations.

2. Tech-Enabled Solutions for Global Clients

• Dentons is focusing on providing tech-enabled solutions to address complex legal issues, such as data privacy and AI regulations. This approach helps clients visualize the impact of laws on their operations and enhances the firm's ability to deliver innovative services.

3. Adapting to Increased Client Expectations Post-Pandemic

• Since the pandemic, client expectations for accessibility and responsiveness have risen. Dentons is working to ensure its lawyers can meet these demands while maintaining mental well-being and leveraging technology to stay connected and efficient.

4. Leveraging Global Reach for Competitive Advantage

• With a presence in more countries than any other law firm, Dentons uses its global reach to offer clients comprehensive solutions to cutting-edge issues. This extensive network is a significant advantage in navigating international legal challenges.

5. Continuous Learning and Staying Current

• Kate Barton highlights the importance of staying informed about global challenges and industry trends. She advocates for regular business reading and utilizing podcasts to keep up with developments, ensuring that Dentons remains a trusted advisor to its clients.