In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Julie Chodos, Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer at Axinn, Veltrop & Harkrider LLP, for a candid and far‑reaching conversation spanning leadership, non‑linear careers, and what it truly means to build and scale high‑performing teams in professional services.
Julie brings a distinctive perspective shaped by a career that crosses law, tech start‑ups, public companies, consulting, and global law firms. Beginning her professional journey as a lawyer, Julie reflects on the pivotal moments that led her to transition from legal practice into business development, consulting, and ultimately senior leadership roles within professional services firm.
Throughout the conversation, Julie shares how growing up as the eldest of five children in an immigrant family shaped her work ethic, resilience, and leadership style. She speaks openly about the importance of embracing risk, learning through doing, and valuing feedback — even when it is uncomfortable — as a critical driver of professional growth.
Nicky and Julie explore the realities of navigating complex partnership environments, scaling teams, leading change, and balancing commercial performance with culture and people leadership. Drawing on her experience at BDO, Freshfields, and now Axinn, Veltrop & Harkrider LLP, Julie offers thoughtful insight into how CMBDOs and senior business leaders can add meaningful value within law firms today.
The episode also delves into mentorship, sponsorship, and psychological safety — including why having a trusted peer group outside your firm can be just as critical as internal networks. Julie reflects on her long‑standing involvement with the Legal Marketing Association (LMA), highlighting the power of community, generosity, and connection in building sustainable careers.
This conversation is essential listening for professionals navigating leadership roles in law firms or professional services — particularly those embracing non‑linear career paths and change‑driven environments.Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Julie Chodos and Her Journey
04:02 The Unexpected Path to Law
06:07 Transitioning from Law to Tech Startups
09:34 Consulting Career and Growth at BDO
12:48 The Importance of Mentorship
14:39 Building Resilience in a Challenging Environment
16:10 Navigating Corporate Structures in Law
18:51 The Role of Business Acumen in Law
20:05 Imposter Syndrome and Taking the Leap
21:47 Current Role at Axinn and Collaborative Culture
22:31 Building Relationships in the Workplace
23:16 The Importance of Mentorship and Sponsorship
24:56 Networking in the Legal Community
28:00 Psychological Safety and Supportive Networks
29:46 Balancing Work and Personal Life
31:49 Navigating Change in Law Firms
35:00 Managing Multi-Generational Teams
37:35 Challenges Facing CMBDOs in Law Firms
39:49 The Evolution of C-Suite Roles in Law Firms
42:25 Words of Wisdom for Future Generations
