FBC Manby Bowdler LLP is a full service law firm providing a comprehensive range of legal services in the West Midlands, Shropshire and Worcestershire. Managing Director, Neil Lloyd shares his experiences as a Leadership Board® member.
“When I applied for the role of Managing Director at FCB Manby Bowdler LLP I knew there would be potential challenges as a non-Lawyer leading a Law Firm. However, when I started the position early April 2020, not only did I have to face the anticipated challenges of my new role, this was also within the first week of the National lockdown.
It was important for me to gain insights from people facing similar challenges, but each in different industries, bringing a different perspective. I was aware of the concept of a Leadership Board® and had looked into several organisations that provide a similar service. I liked the idea in the concept but was unsure to take the next step. I didn’t want to get stuck on a ship with nothing in common with the other members. With Growth Plans’ Leadership Board® I was invited to a taster day where I found real value in experiencing it first-hand. What really stood out to me was the people, the conversation on the day was friendly but focused. Everyone was willing to bring something to the table.
As a Leadership Board® member I get to share and learn with Directors from other industries, each with different experiences and at different stages of the evolution of their business. I like how Liz structures the sessions so that it pens space to bring challenges forward. There are no politics and no other member has a vested interest in my business whatsoever, so the advice and guidance I get is as honest as it can be and there are no hidden agendas.
I have found that many of the challenges that I face, other Leadership Board® members have experienced. They are able to provide valuable insights and challenge my thinking. Likewise, there are things I have experienced where I am able to contribute back to the group. It’s a very supportive, open and honest space to explore options.
It gets very lonely at the top and I think everybody benefits from having some support around them. I feel that if you only get support from within your own sector, you can lose out on interesting insights that people outside of your sector can bring. It’s important to really reflect on what support you’ve got around you. Have you got the right support, is it independent and impartial?”
Neil Lloyd Managing Director FBC Manby Bowdler LLP
“It gets very lonely at the top and I think everybody benefits from having some support around them..."
Objectives
To be part of a network of support with like-minded people.
To gain different perspectives and insights from Directors across a range of sectors.
To learn, share and be challenged on my thinking and gain clarity of thoughts.
Challenges
Being Managing Director as a non-lawyer in a law firm.
The pressures of being new into my position during a National lockdown.
Understanding how to connect with and support a team that had moved to remote working.
Managing the unknowns of the Covid Pandemic.
Outcome
Drawn on the experiences of the other Leadership Board® members.
Knowing we are supporting each other during challenging times.
Clarity of thought. It’s been good to know somebody is listening and is there to bounce ideas around with.
Contact Liz Whitfield to see if she is right for you and you are right for Growth Plans®
