Managing/Senior Partner of the Year 2007: David Pester, TLT

Winner: David Pester, TLT

Managing lawyers is often likened to herding cats. The best law firm leaders must shape strategy and improve performance without losing the hearts and minds of the partners. The shortlist for this category throws the spotlight on six law firm leaders who have been getting it right. Joy Kingsley is one of the profession's longest-standing managing partners, having led Pannone for 14 years. During this period it has developed from being a high street firm with a turnover of £16m into a major regional player that is hoping to break through the £50m barrier this year.

At the other end of spectrum – in terms of time in post – is Moira Gilmour, who became managing partner of Field Fisher Waterhouse on 1 April, 2006. In her first 17 months, she oversaw the firm's conversion to a limited liability partnership, unveiled a new European strategy, including the launch of offices in Germany and Belgium, and launched a 'key client' initiative to improve the firm's relationship with its most important clients.