S2 Episode 1 - The Power of Coaching with Katie Gray

Oct 2, 2020

In this episode of The Lawyering Podcast, we have the opportunity to hear from Katie Gray. Katie is the founder of Principals of Practice, a professional development and executive coaching service, based in New Zealand. 

While applying for a position within her own firm, Katie engaged a coach. This experience changed her perspective of leadership in the law, so much so that she is now a coach herself. 

In this episode we talk about:

• Katie started her career as a banking and finance lawyer and fell in love with law. 
• During her successful 16 year career with Herbert Smith Freehills, Katie led teams and advised on complex financing transactions, all while working across three different continents. 
• Working long hours in the international finance sector Katie started her family.
• While on maternity leave Katie realised her passion for law and leadership.
• During a training program to make partner, Katie discovered some surprising habits which she was not aware of.
• Her leadership training showed the value of self-evaluation and changing your approach to leadership. 
• While applying for Partner, Katie engaged a Coach and the experience helped so much that she eventually decided to step out on her own and starting a coaching business.
• Katie now coaches’ lawyers in career progression and change in their careers though “Principals of Practice”. 
• Katie sees her role in coaching as the “railing allowing others to walk along their own path”
• In her sessions, Katie encourages lawyers to question some of the beliefs they have held over their careers. 
• Knowing when a coach could push you to the next level in your career.
• Ask yourself ‘What is getting in the way of taking ownership in my career?’ and action these items. 

 

Sit back and enjoy this helpful interview with Katie Gray. 

 

Links:

Connect with Katie Gray

Principals of Practice