THE FUTURE
In 2006, we set out a strategic plan that is building on our achievements. We’re not setting off in a radical new direction. Our vision, values and brand are still at the centre of what we do. We simply plan to do it all better. We’ve set down in black and white exactly what we are doing and stated specific targets, actions and responsibilities to get us to our goal.
At the heart of our market strategy is our commitment to provide world-class client service to differentiate us from our competitors. This means focusing our efforts in specific sectors, taking advantage of our size and strength through Networked Law, using the tools and techniques that deliver an outstanding client service, and creating centres of excellence within our offices.
We have developed a sector-based approach to our work so we see clients as they see themselves. By organising ourselves in this way, we can better understand our clients’ needs, their businesses and how we can add value to our advice. Sector groups allow us to arrange ourselves around our clients rather than internal departments.
Building our strength and profile in London is vital for our entire firm. Our move to new premises in the heart of the City, at One Wood Street, is symbolic of our commitment to double the size of the London office over the next five years in order to boost the flow of work around our international network. Our new London and international headquarters, opening in Spring 2008, will feature technologies and environments that will meet the needs of our clients in the future.
With 32 offices across EMEA and more offices outside the UK than in it, we are global in our outlook. During 2007 we opened new offices in Shanghai and Qatar, as well as an innovative alliance with three firms in the Baltic region. We listen to our clients’ needs by ensuring we have people where they want them and providing a consistent approach across our offices. We have created business groups to share expertise for our clients.
Continuing to grow our business profitably allows us to continue to invest in the firm, our people and our clients. We do this by being more efficient in the way we work, by being smarter in managing costs and keeping up-to-date with our systems and methodologies. Implementing our Project Management way of working and using Business Process Reengineering all facilitate this.
In the summer of 2007 our Leeds colleagues moved into their new state of the art building, an example of how we are investing in our firm. This will give our people the chance to work smarter through advanced IT and offer clients state of the art facilities.
Finally, creating an exciting workplace where our people do great work for great clients and are well rewarded for it whilst working for leaders who enthuse, engage and motivate them, is fundamental to our vision and a key part of our strategy.