Carol Patton

General Manager

What does your role involve?

I am responsible for ensuring that Lawlink meets its strategic objectives as set out by the Board of Directors. On a day-to-day basis my role is varied and broad. I look for opportunities to grow our firms’ businesses and work closely with stakeholders to bring about procurement benefits for our members. I also take part in Directors’ visits to member firms where we consult with firms and share best practice in terms of risk management, business development and recruitment. As well as being the overall editor of the Lawlink eNewsletters I am also responsible for developing the agenda for the annual Lawlink conference, ensuring that we attract high calibre speakers. Our conference creates a real buzz for delegates, and firm friendships are established and reinforced there each year. We have an educational programme via webinars, and recently established a Young Practitioners Group to ensure the next generation take advantage of the networking and build relationships with each other.

What qualities and experience do you bring to the role?

I bring over 20 years’ experience in the field of marketing, which is helpful in a role that involves a great deal of networking, public relations and creating opportunities for people to connect and share ideas. Over the years, my work with suppliers and industry bodies has honed my negotiation skills, which I use regularly at Lawlink. In a management role it is also important to have a good understanding of all the business functions including finance and accounting; and that is where the knowledge gained during my MBA studies comes in to play. It is necessary to know how to balance the funding so that we can maximise benefits for members at the lowest cost.

What do you find rewarding about working at Lawlink?

I enjoy seeing our Lawlink firms grow and do so well. It is also rewarding to see individuals develop and move around the Lawlink network – the employee benefits and precedent system unique to Lawlink make it an attractive network to be part of. The relationships we have with external partners, such as the ANZ, Marsh, Thomson Reuters and LexisNexis, ensure there are benefits available for all employees of a Lawlink firm and I enjoy working closely with our suppliers to achieve these benefits.

What makes Lawlink special?

I have never worked in a place where there is such a willingness to share ideas and information. We have been able to take networking to the next level by creating special interest groups around hot issues. Through these networks, long-lasting professional relationships and friendships develop. New members often say they are impressed with the level of co-operation between firms and individuals alike.