In March 2025, CAPE People Development, in partnership with Weightmans LLP, hosted an exclusive Leadership Roundtable for Professional Services at Weightmans’ Birmingham offices. Part of the West Midlands Business Festival 2025, the event brought together senior leaders from across the legal, accountancy, and wider professional services sector to explore the evolving demands of leadership in today’s competitive landscape. 

A catalyst for conversation 

Designed for managing directors, partners, founders, and executive leaders from firms with 50+ employees, the event offered a rare opportunity to step out of day-to-day pressures and into focused, peer-led dialogue. With perspectives from leaders at Weightmans and Prime Accountants, participants explored: 

• How leadership must evolve to meet new client expectations 

• The role of mentorship, sponsorship and inclusive leadership development 

• Aligning leadership programmes with long-term business growth and performance 

• Strategies for sustaining high-performing teams in hybrid work environments 

Key insights and recommendations 

Drawing from the rich discussions at the roundtable, several best practice themes emerged: 

1. Embed leadership at every level 

Leadership isn’t just a senior role, it’s a mindset and set of behaviours that must be nurtured throughout the organisation. 

• Promote leadership behaviours across roles, not just titles 

• Invest in internal networks and peer learning 

• Provide tools and coaching to support emerging leaders 

2. Align leadership with business growth 

Firms must integrate leadership development into their business strategy, especially as roles, markets and client needs evolve. 

• Regularly assess workforce capabilities 

• Offer structured leadership programmes at key career stages 

• Balance technical expertise with people and commercial skills 

3. Use mentorship and sponsorship to build inclusion 

Inclusive leadership development depends on visibility, confidence and support, particularly for underrepresented groups. 

• Highlight lived experiences and personal stories 

• Implement two-way mentoring and active sponsorship from senior leaders 

4. Define success beyond delivery 

Leadership success isn’t only about client work, it’s about cultural alignment, team engagement, and long-term sustainability. 

• Measure both performance and engagement (e.g. NPS, feedback loops) 

• Celebrate leadership behaviours that foster trust, collaboration and innovation 

5. Prepare for what’s next 

From AI to ESG to hybrid working, today’s leaders must adapt and lead with clarity, empathy, and a future-focused mindset. 

• Invest in soft skills training for team leadership and adaptability 

• Rethink traditional career paths and leadership succession 

What participants said 

“This was a rare space to have open, honest conversations about the real challenges we face as leaders in professional services.” 

“It’s refreshing to hear that other firms are grappling with similar issues, and to share practical ideas we can take back and apply immediately.” 

Why it matters 

Leadership in professional services is changing. Firms that invest in leadership development, peer learning, and inclusive growth will be better positioned to adapt, attract top talent, and deliver long-term value to clients. 

This roundtable wasn’t just about ideas. It was about action, and about connecting people who are committed to leading differently. 

For a full copy of the recommendations report, or to discuss how CAPE supports leadership development in professional services 📩 Get in touch