Mould breaking firm

For the firm that has created innovative approaches to doing business that have improved its commercial prospects as well as breaking the mould.

2004 WINNER

Gaius Powell(l), Mark Swindell and Frances Cullen of DLA with Tony Layton of Words&Pictures

The reason that DLA (now known as DLA Piper Rudnick Gray Cary) was chosen as the winner is based on its determination to reach the top of its profession. When looking at its recipe in more depth, three elements emerge in a perfectly aligned game plan:

The first is political energy, formulated through a strong vision and driven by Nigel Knowles: DLA seeks to be a top five European full service law firm with a significant presence in Asia.
The second is its well-defined and executed management approach, with its strategic plan cascaded down into regions and practice areas.
The third is its people. They have shown commitment and support with employee turnover halving in the past three years.

This approach has allowed the firm to make 13 acquisitions and reach number seven in the UK league table. What is novel and mould breaking is the way that the firm is managing itself. It pioneers new ways and raises new questions, in the quest for what is a professional firm and how should it be managed.

RUNNER UP

It is extremely refreshing to look at what Bentley Jennison has achieved in the changing context that the accountancy profession is going through. The thrust and energy that are flowing through its veins make its profession almost irrelevant.

The firm has doubled its fee income, rising from 19th to 14th in the accountancy league table, in particular:

It entered into a shopping frenzy in the past six months, acquiring four firms.
It continues to invest in modern technology.
The firm’s leadership has supported a high profile marketing campaign.
It has focused on the creativity of its people.
The intranet helps communicate its successes more effectively.

The firm has clearly embarked on the right track and is making new waves.

3RD PLACE

There is something very different about Taylor Vinters…It starts with the QUOTE Feel Good Factor for clients UNQUOTE and QUOTE Clients not other law firms as role models UNQUOTE

One clearly feels the importance of people. It is about individuals with great ideas and energy. The firm has learned to mirror this Individuality in its own ways of working.

There is also intense fusion between its people and their community. The creativity and entrepreneurship coming out of Cambridge make new demands that the firm has been quick to grasp.

A dedicated law firm, fine tuned to its special environment, is what distinguishes this firm. The firm is helping us understand how far a professional firm can adapt to its environment and build lasting success.

2004 FINALISTS

Runner up

Third place

Shortlisted

2004 SPONSOR

Words & Pictures 25-strong team of specialist writers and designers have been breaking the mould since being hired seven years ago to produce DLA’s in-house magazine. Their prestigious client base now includes blue chips such as PwC, Bradford & Bingley and Procter & Gamble, and a wide range of professional firms.