In an article for Law.com, Partner Katya Jestin reflected on how five years as Co-Managing Partner of Jenner & Block fundamentally transformed her approach to client service and her understanding of the pressures facing General Counsels. She discussed how guiding a law firm through unprecedented change, beginning with the COVID-19 pandemic, taught her essential lessons about consensus-building, institutional responsibility, and strategic decision-making.
“Leadership fundamentally expanded how I approach problems,” wrote Katya. “As co-managing partner, my responsibilities extended far beyond individual cases and clients. I became accountable for the health of an entire institution: hundreds of professional staff and lawyers, complex finances and important financial targets, and the firm’s long-term strategic direction during turbulent times.”
Katya highlighted how these leadership skills translate to her work advising General Counsels navigating government investigations, regulatory inquiries, high-stakes litigation, and reputational crises.
“The through line connecting prosecuting organized crime, leading a major law firm, and counseling corporate clients is consistent: understanding complexity, exercising sound judgment under pressure, and supporting people strategically through their most difficult professional moments,” wrote Katya. “Leadership broadened my perspective on what this requires and sharpened my ability to build the consensus and trust that make meaningful progress possible.”
A recognized leader in investigations and crisis management, Katya’s experience and strategic guidance fosters a sense of calm and order for companies, universities, and individuals facing sensitive, high-stakes matters. A former federal prosecutor, she serves as Co-Chair of the firm's Investigations, Compliance, and Defense Practice where she represents clients in criminal, regulatory, and congressional investigations. In addition, Katya helps companies, universities, executives, and boards conduct sensitive internal investigations on matters ranging from global compliance to culture risk.
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