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Erica Berthou, Partner, Kirkland & Ellis

Q: What are some of your proudest recent achievements?

A: I recently joined Kirkland's market-leading investment funds practice, which I believe is the most dynamic and integrated funds platform in the world. It is a very exciting time for me and the practice as we continue to grow and expand our offering to our many private equity clients and create something that is viewed as the gold standard for the legal market. Plus I get to work with some of the smartest people in the industry, both co-workers and on the client side. The move also provided career growth opportunities to some well-deserving colleagues, which is super exciting!

Q: What does it mean to be a leader?

A: A good leader should spread positivity and be an energizer and inspiration to their colleagues. Most days I work until I can work no more and then I walk in the next day ready to crush it again! Being in the trenches with the team matters as does caring about them as individuals. It is crucial to be at the cutting-edge of your profession—so in my case that means being a thought leader and strategic counselor to my clients. Strong leaders also stand up for what they believe in and are a voice for positive change. For example, I am a champion for women in the legal profession and provide tailored solutions for the many women I work with.

Q: Name a lawyer or mentor whose leadership inspired you.

A: I have had many great mentors who have inspired me throughout my career. My clients have challenged me and helped me to grow the most. Two lawyers in particular stand out: Todd Molz is general counsel and chief administrative officer at Oaktree, and Jeff Ferguson is a managing director and general counsel at Carlyle. I've worked with Todd and Jeff close to my entire career and they have provided me with unwavering support while pushing me to be a better lawyer (whether I appreciated the latter at the time or not!).

Q: How are the business and profession of law changing, and how should lawyers adapt for the future?

A: The speed at which the legal profession operates is rapidly escalating as clients expect around the clock coverage and immediate advice from their advisers. In an increasingly globalized and technologically-savvy world, lawyers and law firms have to become smarter and more efficient in the way they met these demands, without ever compromising on quality. Winners will be those firms who can provide truly global and full coverage platforms with a very deep bench of experienced attorneys working seamlessly across time zones.

Q: What is the best advice for someone considering a career in law, or someone already in the profession who is seeking to make a greater impact?

A: A lawyer seeking to have a market impact should develop her brand and consciously decide how she wants to be perceived by the industry. She needs to have a well thought through strategy aimed at continuously enhancing her personal brand, both internally and externally, which can ultimately impact how she is viewed as a colleague, adviser and score on the “good human being index.” I think how your competitors view you is just as important as how your colleagues and clients view you. Energy, loyalty, professionalism, excellence and integrity are all important qualities for me.