Season 8, Episode 3: Everything is Illuminating: Learning About Yourself as You Learn Legal Ops (with Adam Becker)

Notes To My (Legal) Self

Did you know that the legal ecosystem is as unpredictable as the weather? One day it's sunny, and the next, there's a new opportunity cloud on the horizon. In this latest episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self, we explore this dynamic landscape with Adam Becker, Director of Legal Operations at Cockroach Labs and a proud CLOC Board Member. When Adam graduated from law school, the roles he excels in today didn't even exist!

Adam's journey is a testament to the unpredictability and evolution of the legal field. He emphasizes that thriving in legal operations isn't just about chasing the next big thing; it's about introspection, understanding your passions, recognizing your strengths, and being in tune with your personal evolution. Adam shares his insights on foreseeing the future for Legal Operations leaders and staying two steps ahead, with a sprinkle of calculated risk-taking to add that extra zing.

Through this engaging conversation, you'll discover the importance of understanding your own career trajectory. Adam's mantra revolves around the idea that your career isn't just defined by your current role but by the people you surround yourself with, the wisdom you soak up on the job, and the connections you nurture in your professional circle.

Adam began his career in big law as an associate before transitioning to the "other side" of the firm as a global recruiting manager and later as a professional development leader. This diverse background provided him with a unique perspective that he carried into his in-house roles, first at MetLife and then in the entertainment industry. Now, at Cockroach Labs, Adam is pioneering legal operations in a tech startup environment, showing how adaptable and forward-thinking legal ops can be.

His story underscores the importance of curiosity and flexibility in a constantly changing field. Adam's move from practicing law to focusing on legal operations was driven by his interest in the business side of legal practice and his desire to solve problems in innovative ways. He emphasizes that success in legal ops requires a blend of curiosity, organizational skills, and the ability to work well with people from various backgrounds.

Key Takeaways:

1. Be Curious: Curiosity is crucial in legal operations. It drives you to understand how things work, why they work that way, and how they can be improved. This trait helps you stay ahead in a field that is always evolving.
2. Embrace Change: The legal landscape is dynamic. Embracing change and being willing to take risks can open up new opportunities and paths that you might not have considered before.
3. Build a Strong Network: Surround yourself with a supportive network of peers, mentors, and advisors. These connections can provide valuable insights, feedback, and opportunities that will help you grow in your career.

Tune in to learn how to embrace the unpredictability of the legal world and turn it to your advantage. This episode promises to be fun, educational, and a game-changer for anyone looking to thrive in legal operations.