What is your top leadership tip?
Look to turn every negative into a positive.
Who inspires you?
My late father & Lance Armstrong.
Clive Thomas, Managing Partner, Watkins & Gunn Solicitors
Watkins & Gunn Solicitors is an award-winning law firm with offices in Pontypool and Newport and is recommended within the Legal 500 Good Lawyer Guide & Chambers
Over the past five years, under Clive’s leadership, Watkins & Gunn has achieved unprecedented success. It is now not only recognised as a leading law firm in Wales but also UK-wide.
Six years ago Clive and his partners faced a difficult situation with the retirement of several senior partners. They set about changing the culture of the firm to one of outstanding client care and continuous improvement with the ambitious aim of “exceeding clients’ expectations”.
Clive’s biggest challenge has been to ensure the financial viability of the firm during the recession. His sound strategic vision allowed the firm to exceed its fee target by 6% last year.
Clive firmly believes in setting an example and leading from the front. He openly communicates the firm’s vision to all staff. He is passionate about the firm’s success, creating a challenging yet enjoyable environment to work in, and a firm that both staff and clients feel proud to be a part of.
In 2009 Watkins & Gunn was recognised as the best managed law firm in England and Wales when it received the Law Society’s Excellence Awards for Practice Management, the only firm in Wales to win such an award.
The firm has seen an improved cash flow and increase fee income of 10% over the last three years. It has recruited and retained quality staff and in 2010 achieved an overall client satisfaction rating of almost 99% with nearly 90% “very satisfied”.
Clive sets high standards yet realistic goals and ensures that everyone is publically rewarded if these goals are achieved. He is extremely approachable and well respected. The measures that Clive has put in place have undoubtedly put the firm in an excellent position for the future.