In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Rhys Calcott, Associate Director for Business Development and Marketing EMEA at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP and Affiliates.
Rhys shares his unconventional and highly intentional career journey into legal marketing, from leaving education early to earn money, to returning to university, travelling the world, and ultimately discovering the legal sector through a chance role in Australia that would shape his future.
Throughout the conversation, Rhys reflects on the power of being deliberate in your career choices, the importance of resilience in high-performing environments, and how building strong networks early can accelerate growth and opportunity.
He shares insights into his transition from management into leadership, how he builds high-performing teams, and why focusing on outcomes over outputs is critical in a competitive legal landscape.
The episode also explores Rhys’s passion for developing future talent, including his role in launching an apprenticeship programme at Skadden, and his belief in creating more accessible pathways into the profession for the next generation.
Rhys offers a candid perspective on navigating pressure, embracing AI as both a challenge and an opportunity, and why continuous self-reflection is essential to staying ahead in a fast-evolving industry.
This is a practical, honest, and forward-looking conversation for anyone building a career in legal marketing, leadership, or professional services.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rhys Calcott's Journey
02:08 Early Career Choices and Education
06:00 Discovering the Legal Marketing World
11:00 Intentional Career Moves in Law
12:25 Transitioning into Leadership
15:39 Coaching and Developing Teams
19:17 The Importance of Mentoring and Networking
22:31 Starting Networking Early
25:25 Embracing AI in Legal Marketing
28:47 Creating High-Performing Teams at Skadden
29:17 Building a Global BD Function at an Elite Law Firm
32:11 The Drive for Continuous Improvement and Innovation
34:11 The Importance of Resilience in High-Pressure Environments
36:53 Self-Reflection and Learning in Professional Growth
39:20 Finding Work-Life Balance in a Demanding Career
43:12 Creating Pathways for Future Talent in Law
49:23 Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in BD Leadership
