Katten Enhances Career Development Initiatives with New Sponsorship Program Cohort

Katten Launches a Revamped Kattalyst Sponsorship Program

Katten, a leading full-service law firm, recently announced the successful integration of clients into its popular Kattalyst Sponsorship Program, designed to enhance the professional growth of both its team members and client attorneys. The firm kicked off this latest cohort by welcoming talented legal professionals, aiming to boost their leadership capabilities, networking skills, and overall career advancement.

Two Distinct Tracks for Learning and Growth

For this cohort, Katten has introduced two unique tracks: the Kattalyst Client Leadership Series and the Kattalyst Alumni Program. The Client Leadership Series features 20 in-house legal counsel from diverse sectors, while the Alumni Program comprises over two dozen current attorneys from the firm who have participated in previous cohorts. This dual structure intends to foster collaboration between Katten's attorneys and legal professionals from the client side, offering a rich learning experience across various backgrounds.

Leslie D. Minier, the Chief Diversity Partner at Katten, commented, "This year, we elevated our Kattalyst Sponsorship Program by incorporating clients in this career-enriching experience and offering legal department attorneys the opportunity to hone essential business skills needed to step into leadership roles and thrive."

A Focus on Skill Development and Networking

Since its inception in 2021, the Kattalyst Program has aimed to equip team members with essential skills and connections for their professional journey. This year’s curriculum, which ran from spring to November, encompassed virtual workshops covering significant topics such as profile building, executive presence, personal branding, and self-promotion. These workshops were designed to provide actionable strategies for career progression, ensuring attendees maximize their advancement opportunities.

The program also featured collaborative sessions between firm attorneys and their in-house counterparts. This two-part series emphasized effective communication and projecting confidence, while also teaching attendees how to adopt a commercial mindset. Participants learned strategic problem-solving techniques and the importance of building trustworthy relationships within the legal community.

Supporting Long-Term Career Success

Amber Haggins, Katten's Senior Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Talent, expressed enthusiasm about the program's evolution. She stated, "The alumni program aims to further our collective goals of strengthening firm relationships, sharing strategies for individual success, and enhancing skills crucial for attorney advancement. This initiative is intended to support the long-term career trajectory of high-performing attorneys who participate in Kattalyst."

Katten is recognized for its commitment to providing sophisticated legal services not just locally, but also on a national and international scale. With approximately 700 attorneys across the United States, London, and Shanghai, Katten’s expertise spans various practice areas, including corporate law, financial markets, bankruptcy, intellectual property, and litigation. The firm continues to attract a diverse clientele, ranging from private and public companies to governmental organizations.

Through programs like Kattalyst, Katten reaffirms its dedication to fostering an inclusive environment where both its attorneys and clients can grow, innovate, and excel in their careers. For further information about the firm and its initiatives, visit katten.com.