In this episode of Beyond Billables, host Stephen Rodney speaks with Sarah Lee, former Head of Disputes and Investigations at Slaughter and May, about her journey through the legal profession and what it takes to become a successful partner. Drawing from over two decades at one of the UK’s top firms, Sarah reflects on the evolving nature of leadership, diversity, and culture in law. From career pivots to life after partnership, she shares lessons that go beyond the billables.

Sarah Lee spent 21 years as a partner at Slaughter and May, where she led the Disputes and Investigations Group and served on the firm’s Partnership Board. A trailblazer in diversity, she was also the firm’s first partner responsible for inclusion and held influential roles in legal recruitment and judicial appointments. Now retired from practice, she holds multiple non-executive and advisory positions across the public and non-profit sectors.

Expect to Learn

• How career detours can lead to lasting success in law
• What makes a successful law firm partner in today’s landscape
• The real impact of leadership roles on personal growth
• Why adaptability and openness are critical to legal careers
• How to plan and transition smoothly into life beyond law

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

• [00:00] - Teaser
• [00:54] - Introduction: Welcoming Sarah Lee
• [02:10] - Sarah's Unconventional Journey to Law
• [05:41] - Defining a Successful Partner's Attributes
• [10:33] - The Transition and Reality of Being a Partner
• [16:30] - The Juggling Act of Management and Client Work
• [18:25] - Identifying Future Talent and the Importance of Resilience
• [21:36] - Firm Culture, Meritocracy, and Evolution on Diversity
• [26:25] - Stepping into Leadership: Becoming Head of Department
• [30:34] - The Success of Lateral Associates and Cultural Adaptation
• [37:55] - Best and Worst Moments of Partnership
• [41:47] - Reflections: What to Do Differently and Key Mentors
• [47:37] - Off-Ramping: Using External Roles to Transition
• [51:30] - Advice for Planning a Life Beyond Partnership
• [54:40] - One Golden Rule for a Successful Partner

Connect with Sarah Lee:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-lee-a0a2a21b7/
• Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rare-technology-linkedin/
• 2nd Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/smart-works-charity/
• 3rd Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/slaughter-and-may/
• 4th Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/islington-giving/

Connect with Stephen Rodney:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenmrodney/
• Company’s Website: