In this episode of Corner Office, Elise sits down with Jane Arnold, Co-Chair of the Business Department at Polsinelli. At home, she’s a single mom to two adopted daughters, and at work, she’s responsible for the careers of 400 legal professionals. Jane shares how she balances intense professional demands and frequent work travel with her personal commitments. Jane takes us inside compensation committee meetings, explaining factors that determine partner compensation and how important it really is to have a book of business. From deal-making to water aerobics class, Jane reveals what life really looks like when you’re the leader of an Am Law 100 firm.
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(00:00:00) Intro
(00:01:27) Jane Arnold shares how she balances leadership in a major law firm with raising two adopted daughters.
(00:03:14) Jane discusses how she's taught her children to understand and respect her professional commitments and firm culture.
(00:05:40) Jane reflects on the influence of her attorney father and her decision to pursue a career in law.
(00:08:43) Jane explains how her work ethic evolved through collaboration with dedicated colleagues.
(00:10:48) Jane talks about the importance of camaraderie and community in shaping her experience at Polsinelli.
(00:13:59) she outlines how her definition of success has shifted over time, valuing purpose and influence over income.
(00:16:39) Elise and Jane discuss the disconnect some young associates experience when realizing the work isn't what they expected.
(00:22:10) They address the benefits and flexibility of working in big law, especially for working parents.
(00:24:20) Jane details her responsibilities as co-chair and how she supports the careers of others within the firm.
(00:27:52) She breaks down her meticulous time management strategies and how she avoids being a bottleneck.
(00:31:29) Jane shares how she sets boundaries and remains transparent with clients and colleagues.
(00:33:48) She provides a behind-the-scenes look into the firm's compensation committee and how fairness is built into the process.
(00:39:56) Jane addresses common misconceptions about making partner, especially around business development and workload fears.
(00:44:04) She offers her top advice to rising attorneys: be flexible and open to paths you never planned for.
