The Ukrainian Bar Association continues its Ukrainian Global Law Talks series — open conversations with leading legal professionals from around the world about current challenges, leadership, and the evolving legal profession.

The guest of the April talk was Fiona Adams, Executive Vice President, Managing Shareholder of Greenberg Traurig’s London office and Co-Chair of the Global Corporate Practice. In an open and sincere dialogue with the Ukrainian audience, she shared her professional journey, reflections on systemic barriers for women in the legal field, generational shifts in attitudes toward work, and her vision for the future of the legal profession.

Women in Law Firms and Career Barriers

According to Fiona, despite significant progress, the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles in private law firms remains a pressing issue. She recalled postponing motherhood until after becoming a partner, as she once believed that maternity leave would hinder her career growth. Today, however, the landscape is changing — there are more and more examples of women advancing after maternity leave, and mentorship and internal team support play a crucial role in this process.

Motherhood, Flexible Formats, and Open Communication

A dedicated part of the discussion focused on finding balance between career and parenthood. Fiona emphasized the importance of open dialogue between firm leadership and female lawyers regarding the conditions for returning to work after maternity leave, and stressed the need for flexible working arrangements.

“Conversations about how maternity leave might affect one’s career shouldn’t be taboo. If we approach them honestly, from a business perspective — there’s always a solution.”

Fiona also shared a personal story that shaped her leadership style: after being promoted to partner, another colleague took over a client she had brought to the firm — a painful but formative experience. Since then, she has always supported younger colleagues and never taken opportunities away from them.

Generation Z and the New Workplace Culture

Speaking about the younger generation’s influence, Fiona noted that Gen Z lawyers are more vocal and assertive in expressing their expectations compared to previous generations:

“When I was younger, I was simply grateful to have a job. Today’s young people say, ‘This is what I want.’ It can be challenging, but it also gives us a chance to listen and create a healthier work environment.”

One of the challenges is explaining the business logic of a law firm. Young professionals don’t always understand why pro bono work — while important — is only a limited part of what law firms do, as they remain commercial entities first and foremost. This highlights the need for practical discussions between law firms and universities.

AI and the Future of the Legal Profession

Technology has already reshaped the profession, and artificial intelligence has the potential to transform many processes. However, Fiona believes that:

“Clients don’t just want answers — they want insight, strategic thinking, and analysis — things that come from experienced lawyers. AI is a tool, not a replacement.”

She anticipates that the role of junior lawyers will evolve — there will be less routine work and greater expectations for analytical thinking, strategic insight, and adaptability.

The conversation concluded with final remarks from Mykola Stetsenko, President of the Ukrainian Bar Association, who summarized the key takeaways from the discussion:

“At the beginning of your career, a mentor truly matters. If you find someone you trust and enjoy talking to — stick with them. Openness, seeking advice, honest communication — these all help overcome challenges. Most likely, your problem isn’t unique — someone has faced it before, and the solution is out there.

We’re seeing more and more women in the legal profession and in leadership roles — and that’s changing both the profession and society in a positive way. As Fiona said — be brave, stay true to yourself, and choose your life partner wisely.

Moderation and balance are valuable strategies — not only in dealing with your employer, but also with clients, partners, or even neighbors.

In the future, lawyers will remain essential — but more in the role of analysts and strategists, interpreting AI-generated results and adding emotional intelligence.

And finally — law firm leadership should play a strong role in shaping modern legal education and the way the profession is regulated.”

You can watch the full recording of the conversation here.