How do you lead a modern, full-service law firm to grow while protecting the culture that makes it distinctive? Helen Drayton, CEO of Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP, shares how she’s guiding a 300-year-old firm through a period of focused evolution—anchored by its ambition to become ‘the most human law firm.’
Under Helen’s leadership, Penningtons Manches Cooper has sharpened its strategy around values that emerged from an internal cultural project: clarity, curiosity, growth, and meaningful client impact. With FY25 revenue of £120 million and a growing international footprint, the firm’s strategy is clear: strengthen the foundations—brand, collaboration, innovation—and sustainable commercial results will follow.
In this conversation, Helen reflects on leading with authenticity, being accessible to her people, and building trust through honesty. Her message is simple and compelling: in a changing legal landscape, the firms that thrive will be those that evolve with purpose, while staying unmistakably human.
Supported by Norman Broadbent: https://www.normanbroadbent.com/
Helen Drayton