Name: Kim Koopersmith

Category: Law Firm: Thought Leadership

Firm/Company: Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld

Title: Partner and Chairperson

Time in Position: Since 2013

What was your route to the top? 

As far back as I can recall, I wanted to be a lawyer—a public interest lawyer, specifically. But my path led me instead to a career as a litigator and leader in a law firm. I wouldn't trade it for anything, but it's a great illustration of something I've learned and shared: Life is a journey—and you can't always predict where you're going. However, you can keep your passions and values intact wherever you go. I have kept my commitment to public service, both personally and in my role as chair of Akin Gump. There have been several constants in my own journey: a willingness to speak up, an understanding of the importance of seizing every opportunity, and realizing the value of building consensus, which I have found to be the most comfortable leadership style for me.

What keeps you up at night? 

Probably the same questions that all law firm leaders face: How can we remain the go-to firm for clients? How can we best meet, then anticipate, their needs? How can we continue to attract and retain the very best lawyers? How can we improve the diversity of our workforce? And there are always questions related to technology: how can we best use it, how do we protect our client's data, and how do we continue to evolve in a changing environment?

What is the best leadership advice you've given or received, and why do you think it was effective?

Take charge of your career. Develop your skills. Understand your client's business. Work hard. Develop your strengths and understand your weaknesses. Use good humor as a shield to defuse tension or disarm opponents. So much of the great advice I've gotten involves becoming the strongest person you can be in all of life's dimensions. I learned that from my dad, a fantastic person, father and, yes, lawyer. Own your competence and let it show, not as arrogance, but as confidence. The industry will not give you your career. And women, people of color and other underrepresented groups in law have to fight even harder and smarter.

Looking back, what do you wish you had known when you started out in the legal profession?

Regarding clients, I would tell young Kim to look beyond what your clients are focusing on and see what they haven't thought to focus on. Being prepared for the unexpected will earn you your clients' gratitude and trust. And build the relationships that'll help you be prepared.

Regarding myself, don't be daunted by the first or second or third reversal you encounter in your career. If you stick with the law, it's a multidecade ride with many ups and downs. Enjoy the journey. It's much more about where the journey takes you than the destination.

What is the most valuable career advice anyone has ever given you?

I've gotten great advice from colleagues, friends and mentors throughout my career. But one that stands out: ambition is not a bad word. When I was being considered to be the next chair of Akin Gump and people would ask me what I thought, I would answer "que sera, sera." Two people who heard me say that told me that was a terrible answer. If I wanted the job, I should say so and work hard to show them I'd be a good choice. People want to be led by someone who wants to lead and thinks they will do so successfully.