The Deal Drinks With The Deal: King & Spalding’s Townsend Talks Business Development
Oct 24, 2024
Keith Townsend, an M&A partner at King & Spalding with over 25 years of experience, shares insights on his business development journey shaped by his father's legal career. He discusses the importance of mentorship in corporate law and reflects on changes in capital markets that have shifted focus towards issuers. The conversation highlights the dynamics within legal teams, stressing communication and teamwork, while emphasizing the need for young lawyers to proactively engage in business development for career advancement.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Influence of Keith's Father
- Keith Townsend grew up around law, inspired by his father's role as a trusted advisor in a small Tennessee town.
- He values deep client relationships and aspires to be a trusted advisor like his father was.
First Deal Sparked M&A Passion
- Keith experienced his first intense deal during a summer with an overnight merger closing at a DC law firm.
- That energized him to pursue corporate law focused on M&A deals that begin and finish within a defined timeframe.
Grow Business Development Skills
- Develop a clear focus on building your business pipeline, dedicating about a third of your time to this.
- Seek advice openly and systematize business development early to grow effectively as a partner.