Maintaining Partnership Culture in a Growing Firm

Sir Ian Davis, former Global Managing Partner of McKinsey, discusses the debate on whether a partnership culture can be maintained in a growing firm. He shares that many partners at McKinsey were committed to preserving the partnership culture, even if it meant resisting growth. However, he believes that maintaining a partnership culture while growing is possible through careful management and an apprenticeship culture. He emphasises the importance of involving the younger generation in decision-making and creating subcultures within the firm. Sir Ian also highlights the significance of trust, collective accountability, and social adhesion in a strong partnership culture.