“Flexibility is here to stay.” – Emily Botello In this episode, Mary chats with Emily Botello from CBRE about how the legal industry is reinventing its office spaces. From single-size offices and neighborhoods of shared desks to seamless technology and thoughtful change management, Emily shares what’s working, what’s not, and how legal teams are adapting to a world where no two days look the same. Topics: Redefining the office with single-size standards and more collaborative designs Setting “anchor” days and neighborhoods to encourage in-person connections Ensuring plug-and-play tech and easy reservations to match the convenience of home setups Involving everyone—partners, associates, and naysayers alike—in mapping the path to a better workspace If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe to Pearls On, Gloves Off for more candid discussions with leaders shaping the legal and corporate landscape. We’d love to hear your thoughts—connect with us on social media and join the conversation! Follow Mary on LinkedIn Rate and review on Apple Podcasts
“Sometimes the right answer for Anthropic would be things that 99% of tech companies wouldn’t even consider. You have to be appropriately open to weirdness—not weirdness for the sake of weirdness, but tied to what we’re trying to achieve in the world.” —Brian Isreal, GC, Anthropic In this episode, Mary sits down with Brian Israel, General Counsel at Anthropic, to explore what it’s like to operate at the legal and cultural frontier of AI. From building a hypergrowth legal team to designing a legal “front end” that prioritizes user experience, Brian shares his perspective on leadership, innovation, and navigating the edge of the possible. Topics covered include: Anthropic’s mission: Building a safer transition to transformative AI and how that shapes the company's operations and values. Legal team culture: What it means to be “appropriately open to weirdness” in service of a larger mission. Hypergrowth dynamics: Lessons from scaling a legal team from one person to 27 in just two years. Front-end legal design: Translating complex legal concepts into actionable advice for fast-moving teams. AI in legal workflows: How Anthropic’s own tool, Claude, has become an integral member of the legal team. Ownership and leadership: Why accountability and agency are critical in a high-stakes environment. Brian’s journey to Anthropic—from NASA to startup land—is as unconventional as his approach to law. Tune in to hear his insights on culture, collaboration, and why the best legal teams are both technically excellent and human-centered. Catch the full conversation now, and don’t miss Brian’s take on how AI is poised to redefine the legal profession. Connect with us and join the conversation: Follow Mary on LinkedIn Rate and review on Apple Podcasts
This special episode was recorded live at Goodwin's Tech Retreat in San Francisco, where Mary sits down with Phil Mazzara, General Counsel of Astera Labs, to explore the evolving role of the general counsel in today's rapidly changing technological landscape. Phil's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Before becoming an attorney, he spent over a decade on active duty as a Navy pilot, bringing a unique perspective to the legal field. With a JD/MBA from Stanford, Phil skipped the traditional law firm route and went straight in-house. Prior to joining Astera Labs, he served as General Counsel and Secretary at Innovium, where he oversaw multiple venture financings, negotiated critical commercial agreements, settled bet-the-company litigation, built a robust IP portfolio, and ultimately led the company through its $1.1 billion acquisition by Marvell Technology. At Astera Labs, Phil played a pivotal role in taking the company public in March 2023, a challenging year for capital markets. Under his legal guidance, Astera Labs has been riding the AI wave, focusing on AI infrastructure and experiencing significant growth. In this engaging live conversation, Phil and Mary delve into: · The Journey to IPO: Phil shares his experiences taking Astera Labs public in a tough market, the importance of choosing the right outside counsel, and how Goodwin played a crucial role in their successful IPO. · AI in Legal Practice: How AI is impacting the legal profession, both within corporate legal departments and in law firms, and the potential future applications of AI in complex legal work. · The Evolving Role of General Counsel: Discussing how the general counsel's role has expanded beyond traditional legal services to include compliance, business strategy, and being a key advisor to the executive team. · Building Strong Law Firm-Client Relationships: Phil offers advice to law firms on how to better serve their clients, emphasizing the importance of understanding the client's business deeply, being proactive, and building trust. · Quality of Legal Work and Service: How to measure and ensure high-quality legal services, the significance of responsiveness, attention to detail, and open communication. · Advice for Junior Lawyers: The value of seeking opportunities to engage directly with clients, asking questions to understand their business, and stepping up to deliver work product in front of senior executives. · Leadership Lessons from the Navy: Phil reflects on how his experience as a Navy pilot informs his approach to leadership, project management, and the use of checklists to ensure quality and reduce errors. · The Future of Legal Practice: A candid discussion on how AI and technological advancements are shaping the legal industry, the enduring importance of judgment and counsel, and the skills lawyers will need to succeed in the future. If you're interested in the intersection of law, technology, and business—or if you're curious about how military experience can translate into corporate leadership—this live episode is a must-listen. Connect with us and join the conversation: Goodwin Exhibit A Follow Mary on LinkedIn Rate and review on Apple Podcasts
Welcome to another episode of Pearls On, Gloves Off with your host, Mary O’Carroll, Chief Operating Officer at Goodwin. Today, Mary dives deep with Chris Grant, Head of Legal Market Engagement at HSBC, to unravel the evolving landscape of the legal industry. Chris Grant isn’t your typical legal professional. Frustrated by the glacial pace of change in an industry resistant to innovation, Chris has spent his career challenging the status quo. From his early days in private practice to his current role at HSBC, he’s been a relentless advocate for efficiency and transformation in legal services. He’s built ecosystems supporting next-generation legal solutions, notably at Barclays Eagle Labs, and has been recognized in the Financial Times Innovative Lawyers Top 10 Entrepreneurs and the Legal 500 GC Power List. In this episode: · The Frustration That Fuels Change: Chris shares how his early career disillusionment ignited a passion for legal transformation. · Is Change Finally Happening? A candid discussion on whether the legal industry is genuinely evolving or just paying lip service. · The Death of the Billable Hour: Will we ever see it? Chris offers a provocative take on alternative fee arrangements—or as he calls them, Effective Fee Arrangements (EFAs). · Trust Issues: Delving into the often-unspoken lack of trust between clients and firms, and how it hinders progress. · Data as the New Gold: How leveraging data can revolutionize legal services, from pricing to service delivery. · Advice for In-House Teams and Firms: Practical steps both sides can take to build trust, embrace innovation, and deliver real value. · The Role of Technology: Why AI is more than just a buzzword and how it’s accelerating conversations that were stagnant for decades. · Future Gazing: Chris’s vision for the next 5-10 years in legal services, and why he believes the time for change is now. If you’re as passionate about legal transformation as Mary and Chris, or just curious about the seismic shifts shaking up the industry, this episode is a must-listen. Follow Mary on LinkedIn Rate and review on Apple Podcasts
Welcome to another episode of Pearls On, Gloves Off with your host, Mary O’Carroll, Chief Operating Officer at Goodwin. In this episode, Mary sits down with Reena SenGupta, a longtime analyst, writer, consultant, and thought leader in the global legal industry with almost 30 years of experience. Reena’s journey is impressive. She is an entrepreneur and journalist who has developed some of the most influential rankings and programs in the legal world. She was instrumental in creating the Chambers and Partners Guides in the mid-90s and the Financial Times Innovative Lawyers Program, which is about to celebrate its 20th anniversary. In 2001, Reena founded RSG Consulting, which quickly became a leading brand in the legal sector. Today, she heads up RSGI, a global think tank focused on building a sustainable future for the legal industry. Reena is also a seasoned public speaker and regular contributor to the Financial Times, always bringing fresh, forward-thinking perspectives to the table. In this episode: · The Changing Legal Landscape: Exploring how the legal industry has evolved over the past two decades, including shifts in mindset and practice. · Defining Innovation in Law: Discussing what innovation truly means in the legal context and how it’s being implemented in firms and legal departments. · The Impact of Generative AI: Examining how generative AI is transforming legal work, from automating routine tasks to enabling lawyers to focus on strategic, high-value activities. · The Future Role of Lawyers: Insights into what the lawyer of tomorrow looks like, including the skills and roles that will be essential in a changing industry. · Client Expectations and Pressures: Understanding what’s driving client expectations and how law firms can better meet their clients’ evolving needs. · Challenges and Opportunities: Addressing the obstacles holding back the industry and the exciting opportunities for growth and transformation. · Reena’s Predictions: Reena shares her predictions for the next 12 months and beyond, including the potential for law firms to become masters of their own data. If you enjoyed our conversation with Reena SenGupta, be sure to subscribe to Pearls On, Gloves Off for more candid discussions with leaders shaping the legal and corporate landscape. We’d love to hear your thoughts—connect with us on social media and join the conversation! Follow Mary on LinkedIn Rate and review on Apple Podcasts
Welcome to another episode of Pearls On, Gloves Off with your host, Mary O’Carroll, Chief Operating Officer at Goodwin. In this episode, Mary sits down with Joe Hyrkin, Chief Executive Officer of Issuu, a leading digital publishing platform that’s transformed how content is shared and consumed online. With over 30 years of experience in startup and growth technology leadership across Silicon Valley, New York, Asia, and Europe, Joe brings a wealth of knowledge from early-stage ventures to IPOs and successful exits. Under his 11-year leadership at Issuu, the company expanded its product offerings, increased revenue and profitability, forged partnerships with industry giants like Canva, Adobe, and HubSpot, and achieved a nine-figure exit in a challenging M&A landscape. In this episode: Navigating a Successful Exit: How Joe led Issuu to a nine-figure sale during a slow year for M&A and capital markets. Flexibility and Resilience: The importance of adaptability in leadership amidst unpredictable market conditions. Strategic Positioning: Tips on positioning your company to maximize future options, including building relationships with potential acquirers and advisors. The Evolving Role of Legal Counsel: Discussing how lawyers are now integral business advisors, not just legal advisors. Working Directly with CEOs: Joe’s advice to lawyers on effectively collaborating with CEOs versus in-house counsel. Building the Right Team: The value of surrounding yourself with advisors and talent who deeply understand your business and industry. Human Connections in Business: The significance of authentic relationships and trust in driving business success. If you enjoyed our conversation with Joe Hyrkin, be sure to subscribe to Pearls On, Gloves Off for more candid discussions with leaders shaping the legal and corporate landscape. We’d love to hear your thoughts—connect with us on social media and join the conversation! Follow Mary on LinkedIn Rate and review on Apple Podcasts
Welcome to another episode of Pearls On, Gloves Off with your host, Mary O’Carroll, Chief Operating Officer at Goodwin. Today, Mary sits down with Goodwin’s leaders—Anthony McCusker, Chair, and Mark Bettencourt, Managing Partner—for an insightful conversation about the firm’s unique culture, its client-centric approach, and the future of the legal industry. Anthony McCusker is widely recognized as a preeminent adviser in corporate securities and partnership laws, with a primary focus on advising technology companies and their investors. He chairs the firm’s Executive Committee and is a member of its Management Committee and Allocations Committee. Mark Bettencourt has extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions, public offerings, private placements of debt and equity securities, securities law compliance, and technology transfer and licensing. He chairs the firm’s Management and Allocations Committees and serves on the Executive Committee. In this episode: Embracing a Unique Culture: Mary’s early observations about Goodwin’s collaborative, team-first attitude and what sets the firm apart. Forward Thinking Innovation: How Goodwin is driving change in the industry through novel solutions, technology, and AI that enhance client service. Client-Centric Approach: The importance of being deeply immersed in clients’ industries and providing holistic business advice beyond traditional legal services. The Changing Role of Legal Professionals: How the role of general counsel is evolving and what that means for law firms and lawyers. Building for the Future Generation: The significance of mentorship, apprenticeship, and providing lawyers with the tools and opportunities to thrive. The Power of Collaboration: The results of working together across all levels of the firm to achieve common goals and drive success. We hope you enjoy this engaging conversation that offers a glimpse into the future of law firms and how Goodwin is embracing change to better serve clients and support its people. Follow Mary on LinkedIn Rate and review on Apple Podcasts
Welcome to another episode of Pearls On, Gloves Off with your host, Mary O’Carroll, Chief Operating Officer at Goodwin. After a brief hiatus, we’re back, and this episode features a fascinating conversation with Alyssa Harvey Dawson, Chief Legal Officer at HubSpot. With over 20 years of experience leading legal teams at major companies like Gusto, Sidewalk Labs, Netflix, and Autodesk, Alyssa shares her insights on navigating AI challenges, the evolving role of legal leadership, and what it takes to build strong legal operations in today’s complex, tech-driven landscape. In this episode: · The evolving role of general counsel as a strategic partner in business growth. · The importance of trust and data governance in legal teams’ approach to AI. · The challenges of balancing global regulations, customer expectations, and innovation. · Building a legal team that fosters business alignment and addresses customer needs. · Insights into HubSpot’s legal operations and their approach to managing AI, compliance, and data security. · Alyssa’s thoughts on the skills needed to succeed in today’s legal operations roles, including business judgment and adaptability. · The unexpected benefits of improv in developing leadership skills in a corporate setting. Enjoyed this conversation? Don’t forget to subscribe to Pearls On, Gloves Off for more insightful discussions with leading figures in the legal and corporate sectors. Share your thoughts and join the conversation on our social media channels. Follow Mary on LinkedIn Rate and review on Apple Podcasts
Welcome to another episode of “Pearls On, Gloves Off,” where we dive deep into the challenges and innovative strategies within the legal and corporate world. In this episode, we flip the tables. Mary O'Carroll, the powerhouse host you've come to know, becomes the guest as Ironclad's Chief Marketing Officer, Leslie Henthorne, steps in to host. This episode is filled with heartfelt reflections, career insights, and a look at what’s on the horizon for Mary. Mary and Leslie dig into: Mary’s Career Journey: From her start in finance, navigating the world of legal operations, and her pivotal role at Google, to betting her career on Ironclad. The Ironclad Experience: Why Mary chose to join a fast-paced legal tech startup, what it was like to build something transformative, and the bittersweet feelings of moving on. Community and Connection: The importance of building a strong, authentic community in the legal space, and why it's more than just a buzzword. Personal Reflections: The challenges and rewards of being a working mom, the quest for balance, and the mentors who shaped her journey. What’s Next: Hints at Mary’s next big move and the future of the podcast. Enjoyed this conversation? Don’t forget to subscribe to “Pearls On, Gloves Off” for more insightful discussions with leading figures in the legal and corporate sectors. Share your thoughts and join the conversation on our social media channels. Follow Mary on LinkedIn: Mary's LinkedIn Follow Ironclad on LinkedIn: Ironclad LinkedIn Watch Ironclad on YouTube: Ironclad YouTube Check out Ironclad on TikTok: Ironclad TikTok Rate and review on Apple Podcasts: Pearls On, Gloves Off - Apple Podcasts
Welcome to another episode of “Pearls On, Gloves Off,” where we dive deep into the challenges and innovative strategies within the legal and corporate world. Today, Mary is joined by Mick Cox, the VP of Legal Operations at Procore Technologies. They dive deep into the evolution of legal operations and the dynamic journey of growing a legal team from scratch. They explore the challenges and triumphs faced while going through career transitions and the strategies for thriving in high-growth environments. In this Episode: Career Transitions: Mick shares their journey from Salesforce to UC and then Procore, highlighting the unique experiences and lessons learned in each role. Procore’s Evolution: Discover how Procore, a cloud solution for the construction industry, has scaled and how its legal team has evolved in tandem. Legal Ops Insights: The crucial role of legal operations in fast-growing companies, including strategies for effective team growth and process improvement. Team Building: Tips on building and managing a top-tier legal team, including the importance of adaptability, empathy, and a disdain for the status quo. Cultural Impact: How company culture and leadership influence the effectiveness of legal operations and team morale. Tech and Process: The intersection of legal technology and process improvement, and how to prioritize both for optimal efficiency. Enjoyed this conversation? Don’t forget to subscribe to “Pearls On, Gloves Off” for more insightful discussions with leading figures in the legal and corporate sectors. Share your thoughts and join the conversation on our social media channels. Follow Mary on LinkedIn: Mary's LinkedIn Follow Ironclad on LinkedIn: Ironclad LinkedIn Watch Ironclad on YouTube: Ironclad YouTube Check out Ironclad on TikTok: Ironclad TikTok Rate and review on Apple Podcasts: Pearls On, Gloves Off - Apple Podcasts
Welcome to another episode of “Pearls On, Gloves Off,” where we dive deep into the challenges and innovative strategies within the legal and corporate world. Today, our guest is Andrew Krug, Head of Legal Operations at Twitch, the video live streaming service known for its focus on video game live streaming and esports competitions. Andrew brings a wealth of experience from diverse industries including technology, healthcare, defense, and gaming, making him a unique leader in legal operations. In this Episode • The importance of program management skills in legal operations. • Shifting from traditional legal functions to a more integrated, data-driven approach. • The critical role of adaptability and leadership in managing legal operations. • Insights into the structure and responsibilities of the Twitch legal department. • The difference between project, program, and product management and why these distinctions matter. • How Twitch is leveraging program management to handle regulatory compliance and improve legal operations. • The role of technology and data in modernizing legal operations. • Andrew's journey into legal operations and the benefits of a non-legal background in this field. • Effective people management and leadership strategies in legal operations. • Training and development for legal operations professionals. Enjoyed this conversation? Don’t forget to subscribe to “Pearls On, Gloves Off” for more insightful discussions with leading figures in the legal and corporate sectors. Share your thoughts and join the conversation on our social media channels. Follow Mary on LinkedIn: Mary's LinkedIn Follow Ironclad on LinkedIn: Ironclad LinkedIn Watch Ironclad on YouTube: Ironclad YouTube Check out Ironclad on TikTok: Ironclad TikTok Rate and review on Apple Podcasts: Pearls On, Gloves Off - Apple Podcasts
Welcome to another episode of “Pearls On, Gloves Off,” where we dive deep into the challenges and innovative strategies within the legal and corporate world. Today, we bring together all three past and current CLOC presidents: Jenn McCarron, Mike Haven, and Mary O’Carroll. They discuss everything from Legal Ops, to AI, blockchain, and the meaning of life. In this Episode • The history of legal ops & what is Legal Ops 3.0? • Shifting from financial management to a more integrated, data-driven approach • What skills are most in demand today • Commiserating about experiences and challenges as Presidents of CLOC • Adaptability and how to navigate the ever-changing landscape of work and tech • The influence of social media on Legal Ops and its effectiveness in promoting the field • Balancing an active social media presence with professional responsibilities • Delving into the impact of AI on the legal industry • Predictions for how AI will transform legal operations and steps needed for full integration • The role of blockchain in ensuring data integrity and facilitating smoother operations in legal departments • The future of Legal Ops, potential disruptions, and the continuing evolution of the field Enjoyed this conversation? Don’t forget to subscribe to “Pearls On, Gloves Off” for more insightful discussions with leading figures in the legal and corporate sectors. Share your thoughts and join the conversation on our social media channels. Follow Mary on LinkedIn: Mary's LinkedIn Follow Ironclad on LinkedIn: Ironclad LinkedIn Watch Ironclad on YouTube: Ironclad YouTube Check out Ironclad on TikTok: Ironclad TikTok Rate and review on Apple Podcasts: Pearls On, Gloves Off - Apple Podcasts
Welcome to another episode of “Pearls On, Gloves Off,” where we dive deep into the challenges and innovative strategies within the legal and corporate world. Today, our guest is Matt Campobasso, the General Counsel and Corporate Secretary at Enfusion, a fintech company revolutionizing investment management through its cutting-edge software solutions. About the Guest Matt oversees the legal function at Enfusion, ensuring the company’s interests are protected while managing legal risks effectively. Known for his proactive approach, Matt embodies the principle that preventing problems is far superior to solving them. His role extends beyond legal advisor to being a crucial part of the executive leadership, influencing strategic decisions and business directions. In this Episode • Re-recording Excellence: Discover how Matt graciously returned for a re-recording session after a technical mishap, bringing even more insight into his innovative approach to legal leadership. • Leadership Style: Matt shares his evolved leadership style, emphasizing learning from others, being approachable, and fostering a culture where asking questions and acknowledging gaps in knowledge are valued. • Strategic Influence: Learn how Matt has transformed the perception of the legal department within Enfusion from a traditional support role to a strategic partner that’s integral to the company’s success. • Cultural Integration: Matt discusses the importance of integrating legal considerations seamlessly into business processes, ensuring legal insights contribute to rather than hinder business agility and growth. • Proactive Problem Solving: An insight into how Matt’s forward-thinking and upstream approach to legal issues not only mitigates risks but also prevents them, aligning legal strategies with business objectives to drive company-wide growth. Enjoyed this conversation? Don’t forget to subscribe to “Pearls On, Gloves Off” for more insightful discussions with leading figures in the legal and corporate sectors. Share your thoughts and join the conversation on our social media channels. Follow Mary on LinkedIn: Mary's LinkedIn Follow Ironclad on LinkedIn: Ironclad LinkedIn Watch Ironclad on YouTube: Ironclad YouTube Check out Ironclad on TikTok: Ironclad TikTok Rate and review on Apple Podcasts: Pearls On, Gloves Off - Apple Podcasts
In this episode of Pearls On, Gloves Off, Mary is joined by Misha Glouberman, an acclaimed author, advisor, and coach who excels in the art of effective communication and managing difficult conversations. Together, they explore the intricate dance between analytic thinking and emotional understanding in the workplace. Mary and Misha delve into: • Effective Communication: Misha underscores the critical importance of balancing analytical and emotional aspects in communications, focusing on real-world business problems that stem from human challenges like miscommunication and conflict avoidance. • The Human Element in Business: They discuss how most organizational issues are essentially human problems and the value of addressing these to achieve tangible outcomes. • Navigating People Problems: With insights from Misha’s book, The Chairs Are Where the People Go, which has been highly praised for its insightful approach to everyday issues, they explore practical strategies for better interpersonal interactions. • Technology’s Role: The conversation touches on how technology impacts human interactions in business settings, emphasizing the need for a harmonious integration of tech solutions and human-centric approaches. • Personal Insights: Misha provides personal anecdotes and professional advice on fostering effective communication within teams, emphasizing transparency, empathy, and the need for strategic personal interactions. Follow & Connect: Follow Mary on LinkedIn: Mary's LinkedIn Follow Ironclad on LinkedIn: Ironclad LinkedIn Watch Ironclad on YouTube: Ironclad YouTube Check out Ironclad on TikTok: Ironclad TikTok Rate and review on Apple Podcasts: Pearls On, Gloves Off - Apple Podcasts
Special Bonus Episode! Mary goes solo to share her thoughts following CLOC Global Institute (CGI) 2024, answering your burning questions in a special AMA format. Questions: What felt different to you about this year’s CGI? What are your thoughts on where we are with AI? How can there be so many CLMs? Can you recap what you said in your speaking sessions? What comes next? Mary dives into the unique aspects of this year's event, the evolving role of AI in legal operations, and the market dynamics surrounding Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) systems. She also recaps her speaking sessions on global legal ops trends and strategic planning, offering insights on the future direction of the field. Stay Connected: Follow Mary on LinkedIn: Mary O'Carroll Follow Ironclad on: LinkedIn YouTube TikTok Enjoyed the episode? We’d be grateful for your review on Apple Podcasts 🙏
Note from producer: This is an updated version that addresses an audio issue in the original. Thanks for bearing with us. In this episode of Pearls On, Gloves Off... Mary and Ashley John dig into the dynamic world of legal operations. Ashley, the Head of Legal Operations at Anglo American, brings a unique perspective from his background in mining and geology to his strategic role in a global mining giant. Key Highlights: Introduction to Ashley John: Transitioning from geology to legal ops. Establishing a strategic vision in a multinational team. State of Legal Ops: The contraction of senior roles. Has the industry delivered on its promise? Quick Wins vs. Long-Term Strategy: Building credibility with immediate successes. Balancing short-term wins with strategic projects. Rising Expectations: Clear communication about role expectations. Creating space for transformative projects. Reputation and Credibility: Consistent wins to establish trust. Ashley’s journey from consultant to dedicated legal ops leader. Changing Landscape: Companies adding and eliminating roles. The drive for rapid transformation and value demonstration. General Counsel's Role: Setting the tone for success. Leading with a strategic mindset. Inclusive Language: Moving away from terms like "non-lawyer" and "alternative". Promoting more inclusive terminology. Future of Law Firms: Impact of AI on legal processes. Will the billable hour model survive? The need for a change in mindset. Culture of Innovation: Embracing AI and new technologies. Fostering adaptability within legal teams. Join Mary and Ashley for an insightful discussion on the evolution and future of legal operations, the challenges of the industry, and the transformative potential of AI. Follow Mary on LinkedIn: Mary O'Carroll Follow Ironclad: LinkedIn YouTube TikTok Rate and Review on Apple: Apple Podcasts
In this episode of Pearls On, Gloves Off, Mary O’Carroll sits down with Anna Richards, Director of Global Legal Operations at John Deere. With over 15 years of experience, Anna brings deep insights from companies like Autodesk, Zendesk, and Micron Technology.Mary and Anna dig into: Transitioning to John Deere: Anna details her onboarding journey, where Deere laid the groundwork by first understanding the role of legal operations and investing in its success. Unique Challenges: As one of the few remote employees, Anna shares the importance of relationship-building and progress-making despite her unique work arrangement. Diverse Roles: Anna reflects on her legal ops journey across different companies, sharing how no two roles are the same and how each experience is valuable. Technology in Legal Ops: They discuss how John Deere aims to become a tech-forward company, targeting 10% recurring revenue by 2030. This requires significant investments in tech tools and IT partnerships. Setting Up Success: Mary highlights the necessity of strategic hiring and the importance of investment in support, vendors, tech, and tools. Creating Buy-In: Anna talks about Deere’s strategic approach to building the legal ops function, conducting surveys to identify opportunities and building a business case for stakeholder buy-in. Current Projects: From implementing an enterprise-wide CLM system to aiming for 50,000 hours saved by 2026, Anna shares her ambitious goals and hiring plans. Follow Us and Stay Connected: Follow Mary on LinkedIn: Mary's LinkedIn Follow Ironclad on LinkedIn: Ironclad LinkedIn Watch Ironclad on YouTube: Ironclad YouTube Check out Ironclad on TikTok: Ironclad TikTok Rate and review on Apple Podcasts: Pearls On, Gloves Off - Apple Podcasts linkedin.com Mary O'Carroll - Ironclad, Inc. | LinkedIn Please reach out if I can be helpful at all. I love to provide (free!) advice on scaling… · Experience: Ironclad, Inc. · Location: San Francisco Bay Area · 500+ connections on LinkedIn. View Mary O'Carroll’s profile on LinkedIn, a professional community of 1 billion members. linkedin.com Ironclad | LinkedIn Ironclad | 27,926 followers on LinkedIn. Ironclad is the smart way to make and manage digital business contracts. Now powered by Ironclad AI. | Ironclad is the #1 contract lifecycle management platform for innovative companies, powering billions of contracts every year. L'Oréal, Salesforce, OpenAI and other leading innovators use Ironclad to collaborate and negotiate on contracts, accelerate contracting while maintaining compliance, and turn contracts into critical carriers of operational business intelligence. It's the only platform flexible enough to handle every type of contract workflow, whether a sales agreement, an HR agreement or a complex NDA. YouTube Ironclad CLM Software Ironclad is the digital contract platform loved by modern business teams.Contracts are business decisions trapped in administrative tasks. Ironclad is software that does all the administrative work better left for a computer, freeing teams -- legal, sales, procurement, finance, HR, etc -- to do substantive work and drive business strategy.We believe contracts should be business assets. Some document management vendors focus on contracts as risk assets: documents that, when poorly managed, expose companies to significant, surprising risks. While not knowing what’s in your contracts can certainly be dangerous, we prefer to focus on the valuable intelligence you can extract from them to drive… Show more Apple Podcasts Pearls On, Gloves Off - Legal Operations, Contracting, Change Management, and Career Growth on Apple Podcasts
In this episode of "Pearls On, Gloves Off," Mary sits down with Dawn Hinz, legal operations leader at Avery Dennison. Together, they dive into the nuances of leading and transforming the legal ops landscape. In The Episode: Exploring Strategy and Improvement: Dawn’s role at Avery Dennison: strategy development, process enhancement, and resource optimization. She shares her methodologies in change management and the hurdles faced during large-scale tech implementations. Cultivating Success: The critical elements that foster a successful legal operations function—supportive culture, robust leadership, and the essential skills needed. Dawn discusses her approach to team building and the traits she values in potential hires. Overcoming Resistance: The common challenges of introducing new systems within firms and how to effectively manage resistance to change. The significance of being a proactive change agent equipped with strategic and program management prowess. Lessons from Dell: Dawn reflects on her tenure at Dell, discussing the evolution of legal operations and the importance of a comprehensive understanding of business processes. They discuss striking the right balance between mitigating risks and maintaining operational efficiency. Demonstrating Value: They emphasize the ongoing need to support legal operations and ways to showcase its impact. Dawn offers her personal advice for aspiring legal ops professionals, urging them to embrace leadership roles, seize learning opportunities, and initiate change. Connect with Us: Follow Mary on LinkedIn: Mary O'Carroll Follow Ironclad on LinkedIn, YouTube, and TikTok Support the Podcast: Love the show? Rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps us grow and reach new listeners!
In this episode of Pearls On, Gloves Off, Mary O'Carroll welcomes the formidable Charlene Barone, currently steering the ship as the Director of Legal Operations at the New York Times. Charlene, with her rich history traversing from contracts manager to legal ops leader, brings a wealth of knowledge from both the startup world and the franchise legal landscape of Orange Theory Fitness. A Tale of Two Worlds: Mary and Charlene explore the contrasts and challenges f@aced in the legal departments of Orange Theory and the New York Times, highlighting the critical role of general counsel in championing innovation. Strategic Moves: Charlene opens up about the strategic initiatives that have marked her career, offering golden nuggets of advice for those aspiring to climb the legal ops ladder. The Brave Leap: From Contracts Manager to Legal Ops Director, Charlene's journey is a masterclass in risk-taking and the indispensable support of a general counsel. Foundation in Contract Management: Charlene credits her rigorous experience in contract management as the bedrock of her success, encouraging newcomers to start their legal ops journey there. Initiative and Innovation at Orange Theory: Charlene reflects on her tenure at Orange Theory, emphasizing the impact of supportive general counsel on her ability to implement transformative projects, like a Contract Lifecycle Management system. Strategy at The New York Times: With a larger team and more resources, Charlene shares her strategic priorities and the open, supportive environment that fosters innovation at the New York Times. The GC Partnership: The significance of a solid relationship with general counsel, the courage to take risks, and the importance of communication are underscored. Continuous Improvement: Charlene motivates legal ops professionals to seize opportunities for enhancement, advocating for small starts leading to major leaps. Stay connected and dive deeper into the world of legal operations by following us: Follow Mary on LinkedIn Follow Ironclad on LinkedIn, YouTube, and TikTok Don't forget to rate and review Pearls On, Gloves Off on Apple Podcasts
In this episode of Pearls On, Gloves Off, Mary O’Carroll sits down with Chris Clearfield, a true trailblazer in the world of leadership and management. As the CEO of Clearfield Group and the co-author of “Meltdown,” Chris brings a fresh take on how to lead through the chaos and complexity of today’s business landscape. Change Leadership, Not Management: Mary and Chris dig into why “change management” just doesn’t cut it. Chris suggests we need to shift our focus to “change leadership” - guiding people through the unknown, tackling fear head-on, building trust, and creating a space where ideas can flow freely. The Legal Industry’s Slow Dance with Change: The conversation takes a turn towards the legal sector’s sluggish pace when it comes to adapting to change. Mary sheds light on the crucial role of legal operations and why professionals need to step up and become strategic leaders. Beyond the Business Case: Chris challenges the conventional wisdom of relying solely on data to drive change. He emphasizes the importance of empathy, listening, and really engaging with people to understand their concerns and aspirations. A Blueprint for Change: The duo dives into Chris’s model for leading change, from recognizing the challenge to achieving and moving beyond the desired outcomes. They discuss how resistance is inevitable and why it’s smart to focus on those who are on the fence about change rather than the die-hard resistors. Cultivating Willingness: Mary and Chris explore the power of starting small, with willing groups, to spark change across an organization. They share inspiring stories of how small beginnings can lead to big transformations, creating a ripple effect of engagement and acceptance. This episode is a gold mine for leaders, change-makers, and anyone looking to navigate the choppy waters of transformation with grace and impact.Connect with Us: Follow Mary on LinkedIn Follow Ironclad on LinkedIn Subscribe to our YouTube Channel Catch us on TikTok If you liked this episode, we’d be grateful for your Review on Apple Podcasts! linkedin.com Mary O'Carroll - Ironclad, Inc. | LinkedIn Please reach out if I can be helpful at all. I love to provide (free!) advice on scaling… · Experience: Ironclad, Inc. · Location: San Francisco Bay Area · 500+ connections on LinkedIn. View Mary O'Carroll’s profile on LinkedIn, a professional community of 1 billion members. linkedin.com Ironclad | LinkedIn Ironclad | 26,262 followers on LinkedIn. Ironclad is the smart way to make and manage digital business contracts. Now powered by Ironclad AI. | Digitize your contracts with Ironclad, the world’s #1 Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) platform. Ironclad is the simple, secure way to create and collaborate on contracts, giving users an all-in-one, AI-powered experience.Every company runs on contracts, but managing these contracts slows companies down and costs them millions of dollars. YouTube Ironclad CLM Software Ironclad is the digital contract platform loved by modern business teams.Contracts are business decisions trapped in administrative tasks. Ironclad is software that does all the administrative work better left for a computer, freeing teams -- legal, sales, procurement, finance, HR, etc -- to do substantive work and drive business strategy.We believe contracts should be business assets. Some document management vendors focus on contracts as risk assets: documents that, when poorly managed, expose companies to significant, surprising risks. While not knowing what’s in your contracts can certainly be dangerous, we prefer to focus on the valuable intelligence you can extract from them to drive… Show more Apple Podcasts Pearls On, Gloves Off - Legal Operations, Contracting, Change Management, and Career Growth on Apple Podcasts