CEO Melissa Davis is featured in Deborah Brightman Farone’s new book, Breaking Ground: How Successful Women Lawyers Build Thriving Practices.
Based on more than 60 interviews spanning four continents, Breaking Ground explores how some of the world’s most successful women lawyers build powerful, sustainable practices – by cultivating trusted client relationships, navigating firm dynamics, and leading with intention and authenticity.
Featured in the book, Melissa shares insight from her work with senior legal leaders across global and independent firms. Her contribution reflects the growing recognition that business development today is as much about credibility, clarity and culture as it is about technical expertise.
Melissa writes:
“As Susan Jeffers said in her bestselling book, Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway, stepping outside your comfort zone is where the growth really happens. Nowhere is that more true than with public speaking. Whether it’s a panel at a legal conference, a keynote at an industry event, or simply introducing yourself on a webinar, public speaking is one of the most powerful ways to build your personal brand.”
Written by Deborah Brightman Farone, Breaking Ground is both inspiring and highly practical. Drawing on Deborah’s experience as former Chief Marketing Officer at Cravath, Swaine & Moore and Debevoise & Plimpton, the book offers a clear-eyed look at why some women consistently excel at winning work – and how others can do the same.
Deborah challenges traditional models of business development that often fail women, instead highlighting approaches rooted in authenticity, empathy and long-term relationship building. As she puts it, “It’s never too late to become a rainmaker.”
For lawyers, firm leaders and marketing professionals alike, Breaking Ground is a timely and valuable guide to building practices that are not only successful, but sustainable.
