Strategic management, and therefore strategic thinking, is a responsibility for all fee earners. This responsibility is growing in importance as management is no longer seen only as a function for partners.

Modern legal organisations operate in an increasingly complex environment, shaped by changing client expectations, commercial pressures, new technology and the growing use of AI. While AI can support research, analysis and the generation of ideas, it cannot replace the human judgement required to set direction, challenge assumptions, balance competing priorities and consider the wider impact of strategic decisions.

At the very least, this requires a basic understanding of strategy; at best, it requires fee earners who can think strategically, use technology intelligently and connect their work to the firm’s wider priorities.

This course will guide participants through the strategy development and implementation process. They will learn key terminology and processes, explore how AI may influence strategic opportunities and risks, and practise developing strategic alignment.

Course objectives:

• Understand the purpose of strategy and how to align it with organisational vision, mission and priorities
• Develop the strategic judgement needed to evaluate options, including the opportunities and risks created by AI
• Set clear strategic objectives, identify appropriate measures of success and link corporate strategy to operational activity
• Understand how AI can support strategic analysis while recognising the importance of human oversight and accountability
• Manage the human and operational aspects of strategic change