In a teachable moment for other legal practices, Husch Blackwell is taking an unconventional step towards bolstering their workforce development. In an effort to provide pathway opportunities for qualified employees seeking to transition into in-house roles, they have chosen to train their lawyers directly for these positions—a move that seems to diverge from traditional industry norms. What may inspire this departure remains the firm’s belief in the untapped potential within their walls.
Husch Blackwell Chair, Joe Glynias, reflected on the firm’s decision, observing a pool of able lawyers who aspired to join the in-house team but felt hesitant in seeking the firm’s support for their transition. Glynias remarks, “It struck me that we had a pool of talent within our firm who aspired to transition in-house, but they didn’t feel comfortable seeking support from us.”
Although firm-internal talent transition programs are somewhat unconventional, initiatives like these could serve as future templates in fulfilling the aspirations of talented lawyers who are keen on transitioning into in-house legal departments.
The extent to which this enrichment program will become a common practice across other firms is yet to be seen. However, Husch Blackwell’s decision is certain to raise questions about how law firms could better nurture, and capitalize on, internal talents and career prospects.
For more details regarding Husch Blackwell’s strategy and its potential implications, proceed to
Law.com.