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In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, Nicky welcomes Martin Brennan, Founder of Onside Accounting and ACCA Global Council Member, for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership, remote working, and giving back. Growing up in Blackpool, one of the UK's most disadvantaged communities, Martin's journey is anything but conventional. From being encouraged by a school teacher to pursue accountancy, to taking a significant pay cut to start an accounting apprenticeship, to eventually founding his own successful accounting and tax firm during the pandemic, Martin shares the lessons, challenges and opportunities that shaped his career. Together, Nicky and Martin discuss: ✅ Growing up in Blackpool and overcoming barriers to success ✅ Building a successful business during COVID-19 ✅ Creating a thriving remote-first company culture ✅ Leadership, trust and employee engagement in distributed teams ✅ The realities of entrepreneurship and starting your own firm ✅ The impact of private equity on professional services firms ✅ AI and the future of accounting and professional services ✅ Networking, personal branding and career growth ✅ Supporting disadvantaged communities and paying success forward ✅ Why purpose and values matter more than ever in the workplace Martin also shares practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, insights into scaling a business, and his vision for the future of the accounting profession. If you're interested in leadership, business growth, entrepreneurship, remote work, accounting, or professional services, this episode is packed with valuable insights. 🎧 Listen now and discover how ambition, consistency, and a commitment to people can create extraordinary results. Chapters 00:00 Intro Highlights 01:13 Welcome & Martin Brennan Introduction 03:33 From Blackpool to Accountancy 04:38 First Exposure to Private Equity 08:30 Moving to London & Career Growth 09:32 Why Tech Startups Changed Everything 10:20 Launching Onside During COVID 12:11 Starting a Business Without Fear 13:28 Financial Planning for Entrepreneurs 14:39 The Power of Networking 16:43 Building a Network & Winning Clients 19:24 Creating a Remote-First Culture 24:44 Founder Wellbeing & Avoiding Burnout 27:12 Protecting Employee Wellbeing 28:36 Private Equity's Impact on Professional Services 32:28 AI, Technology & the Future of Accounting 34:07 The Talent Shortage in Accountancy 36:30 Why the Tax Environment is Tough for Entrepreneurs 38:41 Giving Back & Supporting Disadvantaged Communities 40:14 Purpose, Charity & Company Values 42:45 What's Next for Onside? 45:49 Closing Thoughts Looking to advance your career or grow your team? Ambition is a leading international recruitment agency specialising in professional services. Learn more at www.ambition.co.uk

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Nicole Petrie, Chief Marketing & Business Development Officer at Proskauer, one of the world's leading international law firms. Nicole shares her remarkable global career journey, from growing up between Canada and Australia to becoming a senior executive leading marketing, business development, client growth, and transformation across some of the world's most respected professional services organisations. Beginning her career as a CPA with Ernst & Young before progressing through senior leadership positions at KPMG, Nicole reflects on the experiences that shaped her leadership philosophy and approach to leadership. Throughout the conversation, Nicole discusses the importance of embracing change, navigating career pivots, and intentionally creating opportunities for growth. She shares how moving countries, industries, and functions throughout her career helped her develop resilience, adaptability, and a deep understanding of transformation. Her story highlights that careers are rarely linear and that confidence is built through action rather than waiting until you feel fully prepared. Nicole also explores the critical role of sponsorship, mentorship, and continuous learning. Drawing on her experience as a certified executive coach, she explains how coaching skills have enhanced her leadership capabilities and enabled her to develop high-performing teams that thrive in periods of change and ambiguity. The discussion looks at Nicole's transition from the Big Four into the legal sector, where she has successfully brought best practices from professional services into global law firms. She explains how the role of marketing and business development leaders has evolved significantly, with today's CMBDOs responsible for growth strategy, client experience, technology adoption, communications, data, reputation management, and transformation. Nicole also shares her perspectives on building cultures of trust, creating psychological safety, fostering future leaders, and maintaining sustainable peak performance. She discusses the realities of stress and burnout in high-profile leadership roles and why leaders must be intentional about energy management, wellbeing, and setting the right example for their teams. The episode also explores the future of legal marketing and business development, the opportunities presented by AI, the importance of commercial leadership within law firms, and why human relationships remain at the centre of professional success regardless of technological change. This is an insightful and inspiring conversation for anyone interested in leadership, business development, legal marketing, transformation, coaching, sponsorship, career development, and building high-performing teams. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Nicole’s background02:40 Growing up between Canada and Australia03:53 Early career choices and international experiences05:22 From accounting to business development and marketing07:51 Global roles and international ambitions09:48 Transformation work and cultural nuances10:49 The importance of sponsorship and advocacy12:19 Imposter syndrome and confidence building13:48 The role of coaching and continuous learning15:58 Transition into the legal industry and opportunities18:42 Adapting strategies for law firms20:36 Evolving roles of legal marketing and leadership22:28 Building high-performing teams and culture24:32 Networking and community building29:06 From managing to leading with empathy31:59 Continuous learning and personal development34:24 Managing stress and maintaining peak performance39:00 Work environment preferences and hybrid working41:43 The future of the legal industry and technology42:58 Creating value, visibility and influence45:39 Words of wisdom for future leaders47:20 Closing remarks

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Raya Blakeley-Glover, Chief Business Development & Client Officer, and Emma Lago, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Bird & Bird, the international law firm known for its focus on technology, innovation and future-facing legal services. In this special 100th episode, Raya and Emma reflect on their career journeys, the leadership lessons that shaped them, and their recent promotions into newly created C-suite roles. They share how careers rarely follow a straight path, discussing their transitions from legal practice and communications into senior leadership positions and why embracing change has been central to their success. Throughout the conversation, Raya and Emma discuss the importance of mentorship, sponsorship and coaching, explaining how advocates and role models helped them navigate career decisions, take on leadership responsibilities and build confidence. They also explore why curiosity, resilience and continuous learning remain essential qualities for long-term success. The discussion provides a fascinating insight into Bird & Bird's leadership culture and the unique co-leadership model that underpins their partnership. They reveal how trust, communication, mutual respect and shared values have enabled them to work together effectively while bringing different strengths, perspectives and expertise to the table. Raya and Emma also share their views on developing high-performing teams, creating opportunities for junior professionals and fostering inclusive environments where people feel supported, recognised and empowered to grow. They discuss the importance of giving people visibility, helping them build confidence and creating space for ambition. The episode explores the future of legal marketing, business development and communications, including the growing impact of AI. They discuss why technology should be embraced as an opportunity, how client expectations are evolving, and why human skills such as creativity, relationship-building, communication and strategic thinking will remain more important than ever. This is an inspiring conversation for anyone interested in leadership, professional services, career development, female leadership, mentoring talent, embracing innovation and building high-performing teams that deliver lasting impact. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and episode celebration 02:25 Emma and Raya's career journeys 07:28 Influences on leadership and role models 12:32 The importance of mentoring and sponsorship 15:07 Training, soft skills, and industry insights 20:27 The power of co-leadership and trust 25:46 Building high-performing, inclusive teams 31:52 Significance of promotion to C-suite 34:12 Challenges faced by women in leadership 36:58 Supporting health, well-being, and work-life balance 51:06 Words of wisdom for juniors and leaders 52:09 The future of legal industry and AI 53:14 Closing remarks and future outlook

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Julie McConnell, Business Development & Marketing Director at Brodies LLP, one of the UK's leading law firms. Julie shares her inspiring and unconventional career journey, from growing up in the Scottish Borders and studying law and French at university, to practising as a lawyer in Scotland and Australia before making the bold decision to transition into business development and marketing. Her story is one of self-awareness, courage, resilience, and a determination to build a career that aligned with her strengths and passions. Throughout the conversation, Julie reflects on the key moments that shaped her career, including the lessons she learned through sport, leadership opportunities at school and university, and her experience relocating across the world. She discusses how her legal background gave her valuable commercial insight, but how recognising her strengths in communication, relationship-building, and strategic thinking ultimately led her to pursue a career in business development. Julie also shares the impact of mentoring, sponsorship, and learning from inspiring leaders throughout her career. She explains why being a "superconnector" has become one of her greatest strengths and how strategic business development teams can add real value to law firms by building relationships, connecting opportunities, and understanding clients' evolving needs. The discussion explores Julie's leadership philosophy, including the importance of authenticity, empathy, flexibility, and creating environments where people feel recognised and empowered to succeed. She candidly shares her experiences balancing leadership roles with motherhood, navigating personal challenges, and building resilience through difficult periods of her life. The episode also looks at the future of legal marketing and business development, the opportunities and challenges presented by AI, how law firms can create future-ready teams, and why strong relationships and human connection will remain essential regardless of technological advances. This is an insightful and honest conversation for anyone interested in leadership, legal marketing, career development, resilience, authenticity, and building a meaningful and successful career on your own terms. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Julie McConnell and her career journey01:48 Early life, education, sport, and becoming Head Girl04:21 Studying law and French at university07:19 Choosing her first law firm and early career lessons08:46 Moving to Australia and taking a career break10:41 Landing a legal role in Australia12:10 Transitioning from law into business development14:43 Returning to the UK and joining White & Case15:53 The importance of sponsorship and mentorship16:50 Learning by osmosis and listening to great leaders18:07 Strategic business development and client relationships20:57 Moving to Brodies and stepping into leadership23:49 Ambition, becoming a CMO, and career progression26:04 Resilience, divorce, motherhood, and career growth29:22 Authentic leadership and personal branding32:20 Building team culture and recognising success34:03 Restructuring the team and creating growth opportunities35:48 Achievements at Brodies and key initiatives38:19 Hosting international events and global collaboration39:23 The evolving role of marketing and business development41:03 Challenges facing legal leaders and the impact of AI43:04 Building sector and client programmes with AI insights44:26 Reverse mentoring and continuous learning46:22 Work-life balance, wellbeing, and avoiding burnout47:33 Role modelling authentic leadership48:51 Words of wisdom for aspiring leaders50:20 Closing remarks

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Vanessa Montero, Chief Communications Officer at Hogan Lovells Cadwalader.Vanessa shares her inspiring career journey, from working in her family's café at a young age to leading global communications, brand and marketing functions at one of the world's largest law firms. Her story is a powerful reminder that successful careers are rarely linear and that curiosity, resilience and a willingness to embrace opportunity can lead to extraordinary professional growth.Throughout the conversation, Vanessa reflects on the sponsors and mentors who helped shape her career and the importance of actively seeking out opportunities, feedback and development. She discusses the impact that sponsorship had on her own progression and why she is passionate about paying it forward by creating opportunities for others.The discussion explores leadership, culture and the importance of building high-performing teams through collaboration, accountability and psychological safety. Vanessa shares her perspective on the transition from manager to leader, explaining how leadership is ultimately about enabling others to succeed rather than focusing solely on personal achievement.A major focus of the conversation is the recent combination of Hogan Lovells and Cadwalader. Vanessa provides fascinating insight into one of the largest law firm combinations in history, discussing the challenges, pressures and successes of leading communications and brand strategy through a complex global transformation delivered under an exceptionally ambitious timeframe.The conversation also examines networking, imposter syndrome, wellbeing, executive coaching and the evolving role of communications leaders in today's environment. Vanessa shares her views on talent, AI, global collaboration and why strong professional networks remain one of the most valuable assets throughout a career.This is an insightful and practical conversation for anyone interested in leadership, communications, legal marketing, career development, professional services and building the confidence to pursue opportunities beyond their comfort zone.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Vanessa Montero and her career background05:28 Early work experiences and lessons learned09:21 Deciding to pursue PR and communications16:15 The importance of sponsorship and mentorship23:20 Building a culture of feedback and openness30:22 Creating a high-performing, diverse team44:01 Managing the law firm merger and communication strategy52:35 Handling pressure and high-stakes projects01:10:10 The value of peer networks and psychological safety01:14:39 Networking tips and building authentic relationships01:21:32 Protecting well-being during intense periods01:25:55 Transition from manager to leader01:32:06 Paying it forward through sponsorship and mentoring01:38:49 Overcoming imposter syndrome and building confidence01:42:37 Dealing with uncertainty and change01:46:02 Current challenges in legal communications01:53:16 Personal development and continuous learning01:58:20 Words of wisdom for aspiring leaders

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Deborah Farone, an award-winning legal industry business development and marketing strategist, former Chief Marketing Officer at two of the world's leading law firms, and author of both Best Practices and Breaking Ground: How Successful Women Lawyers Build Thriving Practices. Deborah shares her fascinating career journey, from aspiring to work in advertising and public relations, to becoming one of the most respected business development and marketing leaders in the legal industry. Throughout the conversation, Deborah reflects on the power of persistence, the value of embracing career pivots, and how a chance experience working with a law firm client ultimately led her into legal marketing. She discusses the evolution of the legal marketing profession, the importance of building integrated business development and marketing functions, and the lessons learned from leading teams at elite global law firms. The discussion explores the critical role of coaching, mentoring, and sponsorship in career development, particularly for women navigating professional services environments. Deborah also shares insights from the research behind her latest book, Breaking Ground, highlighting the different ways successful women lawyers build practices through authenticity, networking, and relationship-building. The episode also examines the future of legal marketing, the growing influence of AI, the challenges facing law firm leaders today, and why continuous learning, curiosity, and strong professional networks are more important than ever. This is an inspiring and practical conversation for anyone interested in legal marketing, leadership, business development, professional growth, and creating opportunities for the next generation of talent. 0:00 Welcome and introducing Deborah Ferron2:05 A press kit, two rejections, and her first break3:58 Getting into legal marketing and building it from scratch9:09 Cravath, and the Hermès job that got away13:54 Going solo: taking the consultancy leap15:22 The call from her first client16:26 Training and setting the standard20:19 Coaching, mentors and sponsors23:30 Founding the Legal Marketing Association25:47 Building networks that last29:40 Breaking Ground: the women behind the book33:01 Authentic business development35:18 Women in leadership and the "purple ghetto"39:07 AI and the changing role of marketing41:28 Staying fresh and getting out from behind the desk45:34 What firms are wrestling with now48:37 Final words of wisdom

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Rhys Calcott, Associate Director for Business Development and Marketing EMEA at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP and Affiliates. Rhys shares his unconventional and highly intentional career journey into legal marketing, from leaving education early to earn money, to returning to university, travelling the world, and ultimately discovering the legal sector through a chance role in Australia that would shape his future. Throughout the conversation, Rhys reflects on the power of being deliberate in your career choices, the importance of resilience in high-performing environments, and how building strong networks early can accelerate growth and opportunity. He shares insights into his transition from management into leadership, how he builds high-performing teams, and why focusing on outcomes over outputs is critical in a competitive legal landscape. The episode also explores Rhys’s passion for developing future talent, including his role in launching an apprenticeship programme at Skadden, and his belief in creating more accessible pathways into the profession for the next generation. Rhys offers a candid perspective on navigating pressure, embracing AI as both a challenge and an opportunity, and why continuous self-reflection is essential to staying ahead in a fast-evolving industry. This is a practical, honest, and forward-looking conversation for anyone building a career in legal marketing, leadership, or professional services. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rhys Calcott's Journey 02:08 Early Career Choices and Education 06:00 Discovering the Legal Marketing World 11:00 Intentional Career Moves in Law 12:25 Transitioning into Leadership 15:39 Coaching and Developing Teams 19:17 The Importance of Mentoring and Networking 22:31 Starting Networking Early 25:25 Embracing AI in Legal Marketing 28:47 Creating High-Performing Teams at Skadden 29:17 Building a Global BD Function at an Elite Law Firm 32:11 The Drive for Continuous Improvement and Innovation 34:11 The Importance of Resilience in High-Pressure Environments 36:53 Self-Reflection and Learning in Professional Growth 39:20 Finding Work-Life Balance in a Demanding Career 43:12 Creating Pathways for Future Talent in Law 49:23 Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in BD Leadership

With over 25 years of experience spanning in-house leadership roles and consultancy, Dave shares a candid perspective on navigating non-linear careers, leading global teams, and building influence within partnership-led organisations. From his early career in economic development during the tech boom to senior leadership roles at firms including Morrison & Foerster, Orrick, and Baker Botts, Dave reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership journey. The conversation explores the realities of scaling teams, managing change, and the growing pressures facing CMOs today — alongside practical insights on networking, resilience, and protecting against burnout in high-performance environments.A standout theme throughout is the power of community. Dave shares how his global CMO roundtables have created trusted peer networks that enable leaders to step back, think strategically, and navigate complexity together. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Leadership Transformation 02:59 Dave's Career Journey in Legal Marketing 05:46 Navigating Mergers and Building Resilience 08:53 Transitioning to Consultancy and Family Considerations 11:54 Innovative Marketing Strategies in Law Firms 15:02 Managing Global Teams and Cultural Insights 20:58 Leadership Challenges in Diverse Environments 24:00 The Shift from In-House to Consultancy 27:37 The Journey of Publishing a Harvard Case Study 29:35 The Importance of Mentorship and Sponsorship 30:44 Transitioning from Management to Leadership 32:48 The Role of Networking in Career Development 34:51 Creating Global Networking Opportunities 39:12 Managing Stress and Burnout in High-Pressure Roles 40:23 Navigating Change and Building Resilience 44:45 Challenges Facing Marketing Leaders Today 48:28 The Importance of Strategic Thinking 50:40 Words of Wisdom for Future Generations

​In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Julie Chodos, Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer at Axinn, Veltrop & Harkrider LLP, for a candid and far‑reaching conversation spanning leadership, non‑linear careers, and what it truly means to build and scale high‑performing teams in professional services. Julie brings a distinctive perspective shaped by a career that crosses law, tech start‑ups, public companies, consulting, and global law firms. Beginning her professional journey as a lawyer, Julie reflects on the pivotal moments that led her to transition from legal practice into business development, consulting, and ultimately senior leadership roles within professional services firm. Throughout the conversation, Julie shares how growing up as the eldest of five children in an immigrant family shaped her work ethic, resilience, and leadership style. She speaks openly about the importance of embracing risk, learning through doing, and valuing feedback — even when it is uncomfortable — as a critical driver of professional growth. Nicky and Julie explore the realities of navigating complex partnership environments, scaling teams, leading change, and balancing commercial performance with culture and people leadership. Drawing on her experience at BDO, Freshfields, and now Axinn, Veltrop & Harkrider LLP, Julie offers thoughtful insight into how CMBDOs and senior business leaders can add meaningful value within law firms today. The episode also delves into mentorship, sponsorship, and psychological safety — including why having a trusted peer group outside your firm can be just as critical as internal networks. Julie reflects on her long‑standing involvement with the Legal Marketing Association (LMA), highlighting the power of community, generosity, and connection in building sustainable careers. This conversation is essential listening for professionals navigating leadership roles in law firms or professional services — particularly those embracing non‑linear career paths and change‑driven environments.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Julie Chodos and Her Journey 04:02 The Unexpected Path to Law 06:07 Transitioning from Law to Tech Startups 09:34 Consulting Career and Growth at BDO 12:48 The Importance of Mentorship 14:39 Building Resilience in a Challenging Environment 16:10 Navigating Corporate Structures in Law 18:51 The Role of Business Acumen in Law 20:05 Imposter Syndrome and Taking the Leap 21:47 Current Role at Axinn and Collaborative Culture 22:31 Building Relationships in the Workplace 23:16 The Importance of Mentorship and Sponsorship 24:56 Networking in the Legal Community 28:00 Psychological Safety and Supportive Networks 29:46 Balancing Work and Personal Life 31:49 Navigating Change in Law Firms 35:00 Managing Multi-Generational Teams 37:35 Challenges Facing CMBDOs in Law Firms 39:49 The Evolution of C-Suite Roles in Law Firms 42:25 Words of Wisdom for Future Generations

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Allyson Stewart‑Allen, Founder and CEO of International Marketing Partners, for a wide‑ranging and deeply insightful conversation on international careers, professional services leadership, and the realities of global growth. A globally recognised authority on the internationalisation of professional services firms, Allyson brings decades of experience advising leaders across legal, consulting, accounting, and advisory businesses. Originally from Los Angeles and now based in London, Allyson shares how early exposure to international life — including growing up in Munich and studying languages — shaped her worldview and ultimately her career. Allyson reflects on her professional journey from PwC, PA Consulting Group, and Hay Group to founding her own consultancy in the early 1990s. She speaks candidly about recognising early on that traditional corporate environments weren’t where she did her best work — and the courage it took to build something of her own. The conversation explores Allyson’s bestselling book, Working with Americans, written in response to years of being asked the same cross‑cultural questions by global leaders. Allyson explains how the book came to life, why cross‑cultural understanding is still widely misunderstood, and how global firms continue to underestimate the complexity of international expansion. Nicky and Allyson also unpack the real differences between mentoring, sponsorship, and executive coaching, drawing on Allyson’s experience as both a mentee and mentor. 3Allyson shares why mentorship has been particularly influential in her career — and why sponsorship is often the missing ingredient for progression in professional services. The episode also dives into the biggest challenges facing leaders in professional services today, including global‑versus‑local tensions, leadership transitions from technical expert to firm leader, and the growing importance of culture, people leadership, and adaptability. Allyson offers thoughtful, practical insight from her work with senior partners, CMOs, and leadership teams across international firms. This episode is essential listening for professionals navigating international careers, leadership transitions, and growth within professional services environments. ​Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Allyson Stewart-Allen 01:57 Allyson's Journey and Background 09:02 Career Path and Professional Growth 16:08 The Process of Writing a Book 19:41 Broadcasting Experience and Public Speaking 23:56 Mentoring, Sponsorship, and Coaching 24:17 The Value of Mentoring and Coaching 26:07 The Importance of Sponsorship in Career Development 28:33 Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurial Life 32:20 Networking: Building Relationships for Success 34:57 Consultancy Work and Its Impact 37:50 Challenges Facing Leaders in Professional Services 41:13 The Evolution of Leadership in Modern Times 42:47 Taking Risks and Embracing Opportunities

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Kerri Vermeylen, Chief Marketing Officer at Sidley Austin LLP, for an honest and reflective conversation on leadership, career evolution, and building a long‑term career in legal marketing. Kerri shares her unconventional journey from growing up in the Midwest United States to studying and living abroad in Oxford and France — experiences that sparked a lifelong connection to Europe and ultimately led her to build a global career from Brussels. What began as a short study stint evolved into a 30‑year international chapter shaped by curiosity, courage, and openness to opportunity. She reflects on the pivotal moments of serendipity that shaped her career — including a chance dinner conversation that led to her first role in a law firm — and how saying yes to unfamiliar environments helped her discover where she thrives: in fast‑paced, intellectually demanding, people‑driven organisations. Throughout the conversation, Kerri offers thoughtful insight into the transition from management to leadership, leading international and remote teams, and how global roles require adaptability, trust, and cultural awareness. She speaks candidly about the importance of mentorship, sponsorship, and peer networks, as well as the role executive coaching and feedback have played in her growth. The discussion also explores the realities of sustaining a demanding global role — from managing travel and time zones to protecting energy and preventing burnout — alongside Kerri’s grounded perspective on work‑life “balance” as an ongoing recalibration rather than a fixed state. Kerri also shares her take on the evolving profession of legal marketing, the accelerating pace of change driven by technology and AI, and why curiosity, good questions, and human judgment will remain critical to leadership success. This episode offers practical, reassuring insight for marketing and business development professionals navigating growth, change, and leadership — particularly within professional services environments. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kerri's Journey 02:15 Early Life and Education: A Foundation for Growth 09:49 Career Beginnings: Serendipity in Legal Marketing 16:09 Transition to Europe: Embracing New Opportunities 19:21 Finding Passion in Legal Marketing 23:15 The Evolution of Legal Marketing and Future Trends 24:23 Transitioning from Management to Leadership 26:35 Balancing Work and Family Life 29:29 Finding Personal Balance and Avoiding Burnout 32:35 The Importance of Mentorship and Career Intentionality 36:40 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 39:05 Navigating Change in the Legal Industry 41:48 Cultivating a Positive Workplace Culture 43:40 The Power of Curiosity and Asking Questions

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Kathleen Ford, Director and Head of Global Communications at Kearney, for an open and insightful conversation on leadership, career development, and the evolving role of communications. Kathleen shares her unconventional career journey from studying history and interning on Capitol Hill to working in public affairs, agency life, and ultimately building and leading a global communications function at a top management consultancy. She reflects on the idea of a “career patchwork” — where every experience, skill, and challenge contributes to a broader leadership quilt — and how adaptability, curiosity, and saying yes to opportunities have shaped her path. Throughout the conversation, Kathleen speaks candidly about mentoring and coaching, navigating imposter syndrome, building confidence through executive coaching, and the responsibility leaders have to create space for others to grow. The discussion also explores the modern challenges facing communications professionals, including the rise of AI, declining email engagement, and the need to constantly evolve while protecting authenticity and human voice. Kathleen’s mantra — “keep evolving and make it compelling” — runs through the episode as a guiding principle for future‑focused leadership. This episode offers thoughtful, practical insight for communications, marketing, and professional services leaders at all stages of their careers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Authentic Leadership 01:21 Kathleen's Career Journey 06:16 Transitioning Roles and Responsibilities 10:43 Building a Communications Team 15:26 Navigating Challenges During COVID-19 17:51 Managing Stress and Burnout 21:31 The Importance of Mentorship and Sponsorship 22:19 Navigating Career Opportunities and Mentorship 24:21 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Building Confidence 27:44 The Importance of Networking in Professional Growth 31:55 Leadership Philosophy: Supporting Others to Succeed 33:43 Adapting to AI in Communications 38:53 The Value of Personal Branding

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Gillian Ward, Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer at Reed Smith. Gillian shares her remarkable career journey from growing up in a small town in South Yorkshire to leading global marketing and business development functions at some of the world’s most prestigious international law firms. Starting her career in the steel and engineering industries, Gillian made a bold and unexpected transition into legal marketing, a move sparked by a chance conversation on a plane that ultimately shaped the rest of her professional life.Throughout the conversation, Gillian reflects on the power of mentorship and sponsorship, the importance of building trusted networks, and the courage required to take risks before you feel ready. She speaks candidly about navigating imposter syndrome, leading through complexity, and what it truly means to move from management into leadership. The episode also explores Gillian’s instrumental role in helping to establish the Legal Marketing Association (LMA) in London and Europe, her experience leading transatlantic teams across the US, UK, and Europe, and the realities of running global businesses in markets that are culturally and commercially very different. Gillian also shares deeply personal reflections on balancing a demanding international career with motherhood, raising twins while travelling extensively, and the sacrifices and rewards, that come with ambition. This is an honest, thoughtful, and inspiring conversation for anyone navigating leadership, growth, and global careers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gillian's Journey 02:52 Career Transition: From Engineering to Legal Marketing 05:30 The Importance of Mentorship and Networking 08:08 Building Relationships with Managing Partners 10:56 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 13:33 Creating a Supportive Network 16:35 Establishing the Legal Marketing Association in Europe 19:17 Navigating Global Roles and Cultural Differences 22:01 The Impact of COVID-19 on Leadership 24:50 Balancing Career and Motherhood 27:39 Challenges and Opportunities for CMOs in Law Firms 30:27 Words of Wisdom for Future Generations

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuna Ocana welcomes Alistair Johnson, an experienced Chief Operating Officer and senior change and transformation leader whose career began in the British Army before spanning technology, consulting, and professional services. Alistair shares his journey from a formative start at Sandhurst and operational tours in the British Army to senior leadership roles within large, international organisations and leading law firms, including Clifford Chance and RPC. He reflects candidly on how early exposure to leadership under pressure shaped his people‑first philosophy and his ability to remain calm in high‑stakes environments. Throughout the conversation, Alistair offers powerful insights into the transition from management to leadership, the importance of humility, and why empowering others is the hallmark of effective leadership.He discusses navigating imposter syndrome, the value of mentoring and sponsorship, and how intentional career decisions, including moves between large organisations, SMEs, and start‑ups shaped his path. Alistair also explores the evolving challenges facing professional services leaders today, from rising costs and talent pressures to AI, automation, and the need to balance profitability with wellbeing. With practical wisdom and honest reflection, this episode is packed with lessons for emerging and experienced leaders alike. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Alistair Johnson 02:01 Alistair's Military Background and Early Career 09:12 Transitioning to Civilian Life and Corporate Roles1 6:14 Lessons from Startups and Challenges Faced 19:54 Finding a Role in Law Firms and Embracing New Opportunities 26:08 Leadership Lessons and Collaborative Work 27:09 The Importance of Empowering Teams 31:32 Career Transitions and the Role of Mentorship3 5:56 Navigating Challenges as a COO 40:36 The Evolving Landscape of Professional Services 46:54 Managing Stress and Prioritising Workloads 50:53 Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Professionals

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuna Ocana welcomes Nicola Merritt, Founder & CEO of Cortus Advisory Group.Nicola shares her journey from growing up in the North of England in an entrepreneurial family to building and scaling a multi-office advisory firm. From selling handmade gifts at primary school to founding and leading a fast-growing professional services business, Nicola’s story is one of focus, discipline, and bold decision-making.Throughout the conversation, Nicola reflects on her early career ambitions, her formative years at KPMG, and the pivotal moments that led her to step away from partnership to launch her own firm during the COVID period. She offers thoughtful insights into modern leadership, the importance of culture, empathy, resilience, and why creating space to think is essential for long-term success.Nicola also speaks openly about confidence, motherhood, managing pressure, personal growth, and redefining what success truly means both professionally and personally. This episode is packed with practical wisdom for leaders, founders, and anyone navigating ambition alongside real life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nicola Merritt 02:05 Growing Up in the North: Early Influences 04:42 The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Crafting and Selling 06:09 Education and Career Path: KPMG Experience 09:54 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship 11:40 The Inflection Point: Launching Cortis Advisory Group 14:30 The Importance of Mentorship 17:07 Building Networks: Internal and External 19:03 Creating a Strong Company Culture 21:29 Listening to Every Voice in the Organisation 22:38 The Importance of Listening and Communication 23:24 Reflecting on Leadership Styles 24:33 The Six Pillars of Effective Leadership 28:09 The Role of Empathy in Leadership 30:35 Personal Growth and Work-Life Balance 34:04 The Importance of Self-Care and Recovery 37:40 Supporting Female Leaders and Advocacy 40:33 Challenges in the Industry and Future Outlook 43:03 Words of Wisdom for Young Leaders