Lessons I Learned in Law
Scott Brown is a 'recovering lawyer'. Following years working in international law firms, Scott now runs Heriot Brown, a Legal Recruitment business. His extensive discussions with people across the legal profession have given him insight into what makes lawyers tick. Now, Scott shares those insights with you - to help you in your career. On each episode Scott invites guests to leave their egos at their door, share their professional successes and challenges, as well as the lessons they've learned in law. Presented by Scott Brown of Heriot Brown Legal Recruitment. Follow Heriot Brown:Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
Lessons I Learned in Law
"From Working Bee to Strategic Leader: How Katja Roth Pellanda Rose to Lead a Global Legal Team of 500+"
In the final episode of Season 6, Scott Brown is joined by Katja Roth Pellanda, Group General Counsel at Zurich Insurance. Katja shares her journey from a corporate law associate to managing a global legal function of 500+ lawyers.
Her story is a masterclass in career growth, highlighting how being visible, strategic, and vocal can elevate your career.
Key Lessons from Katja:
- Visibility Matters:
Early in her career, Katja focused solely on delivering exceptional legal work, believing it would be enough for recognition. However, she realised that visibility and storytelling were equally important for career advancement. - Learn to Market Yourself:
Katja speaks about shifting her mindset to actively communicate her value—not just in the quality of her legal advice, but in demonstrating leadership, innovation, and strategic thinking. - Transforming Leadership:
Katja’s focus on visibility, paired with her curiosity and willingness to tackle challenges, has propelled her into a leadership role, managing a global legal function that spans continents and cultures.
Standout Moments:
- How Katja balances being a strategic leader while fostering a collaborative team culture.
- The innovative initiatives her legal team is implementing, from secondments with UBS to internal leadership programmes.
- Her advice for legal professionals: Be more than a “working bee”—showcase your strategic value.
Katja’s Recommendations:
- Book: Reimagining Capitalism in a World on Fire by Rebecca Henderson – Insights into integrating sustainability with profitability.
- Podcast: Rethinking by Adam Grant – Thought-provoking conversations on leadership and innovation.
About Heriot Brown:
At Heriot Brown, we help lawyers find fulfilment in their careers. Beyond recruitment, we foster a thriving community of in-house legal professionals who share insights, experiences, and growth opportunities.
