Paul Murray is managing partner at Beachcroft, where he is both peacemaker and latter-day Genghis Khan.
Were you always destined for management or was it thrust upon you?
Destiny was definitely thrust upon me in terms of management opportunity.
How would you define your management philosophy (in 20 words or less)?
To delegate with authority, invest trust in others and then deliver practical support in achieving objectives.
How does management compare to fee earning?
Management is more exciting - but can also be more frustrating.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? And the most rewarding?
Lack of self-perception in others in terms of under-performance. The most rewarding aspect has to be seeing those you have encouraged succeed.
What is the most pointless piece of management jargon you have ever heard?
Any management jargon is anathema to me, as effective communication is the key to successful management. Among the most pointless must be ‘pushing the envelope’, ‘low- hanging fruit’ and ‘run it up the flagpole’.
How do you get to know junior lawyers/trainees in a firm with so many fee earners?
Being as visible as possible – regular informal briefing sessions, the firm’s forum, roadshows, one-to-ones and taking every possible opportunity to interact, socially as well as professionally.
How do you sell your firm to potential recruits?
As a place that both nurtures and stretches them to fulfil their own potential.
What has been your most embarrassing/cringe-worthy management moment?
Having to articulate what I do in order to fill out this form!
Who is your management guru or idol?
I don’t really have any. No one management theory is applicable to every circumstance – so you have to find your own way.
Which is more effective in your experience - carrot or stick?
Carrot – although the stick has its place.
What is the biggest challenge facing your firm over the next 12 months?
Continuing to grow in a way that doesn’t dilute the culture of the business.
What achievement are you most proud of as a law firm leader?
Securing 'Investors in People' accreditation across all our UK offices for the third time – while driving continued expansion and delivering sound commercial results.
Have you read Sun Tzu’s The Art Of War?
No. The ‘Art of Keeping the Peace’ would be more interesting to me.
How will you know when it is time to call it a day?
My senior partner will shout in my ear trumpet.
Complete this sentence: The historical figure I most relate to is…
Genghis Khan. Greatly misrepresented, I suspect…