Jonathan Tardif, Browne Jacobson’s senior partner, on leadership, mentorship and why retaining diverse talent is the legal profession's next big challenge
What was your route into the profession?
I attended a state comprehensive school in my hometown of Hailsham, East Sussex, until I was 18. Growing up, I wanted to fly Tornados or Harriers in the RAF, but unfortunately my eyesight as a lad meant that becoming a military pilot was not an option. I decided to go to university and a law degree really interested me, despite not studying law at A-level.
I obtained my degree from the University of Leicester, then attended the College of Law in York to do my LPC. During the summer and Easter holidays throughout my degree, I worked as a legal assistant for the firm where I eventually did my training contract—Stephen Rimmer and Co in Eastbourne. That holiday job was incredibly varied—attending police station interviews, scheduling deeds for the conveyancing team, visiting clients at home to obtain signed wills, sitting behind counsel at civil and criminal hearings. I even spent a month covering for the receptionist (who had slipped on ice and broken her wrist) because I was the only person who could fathom how to work the newly-installed switchboard equipment!
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
There have been many challenges, which is why I love my job—every day brings something new, especially in litigation. Obviously, the pandemic threw up huge issues to keep the wheels of a large law firm turning profitably in unprecedented circumstances. Speaking personally, though, I think leadership brings huge challenges if you do it authentically. Leading and inspiring others is such a great opportunity, but you must lead in a way that builds trust; is clear and inclusive; champions diversity in every sense; and ultimately creates new leaders to follow in your footsteps.
Which person within the legal profession inspires you most?
Ian Gray, who has recently retired as executive partner and European chairman of Eversheds Sutherland. Between 2000–10, Ian taught me skills that have shaped a quarter of a century working in law—technical learning; litigation strategy; people skills; crisp communication; client care; financial acumen; market awareness. Always ‘teaching by osmosis’—that critical dynamic which remote working risks eroding. Ian always backed me to do the things I wanted to do, most recently as a mentor providing wisdom and encouragement in the election to become Browne Jacobson’s senior partner.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you choose as an alternate career?
I would still love to become a pilot, although these days I would prefer to fly a helicopter. I am a huge F1 fan and petrol head too, so if ever a presenting slot on Top Gear went begging, I’d love the chance to do that.
Who is your favourite fictional lawyer?
Judge John Deed—he was disruptive and unorthodox, but always for good reasons. Martin Shaw is a fantastic actor.
What change would you make to the profession?
Despite decades of progress, the legal profession continues to lose exceptional talent at the point it matters most. Women enter the profession in roughly equal numbers to men, yet senior leadership remains stubbornly and disproportionately male. This is not a pipeline problem—the talent is there. It is a structural one. Flexible working, transparent promotion criteria and genuine sponsorship—not just mentorship—are the levers that can really move the needle. The profession should not need to be convinced that diversity in leadership makes it stronger. The evidence is overwhelming. We need the will to act on it in a sustained way.
How do you relax?
Wellbeing is crucial. I like to spend as much free time outdoors as possible. Living very near the Peak District means endless options on my doorstep for country dog walks with my Cavapoo, Louis. I have reflexology fortnightly, rarely miss an F1 race on TV, and am also a real foodie, so I am always looking to support new local restaurants.
Jonathan Tardif is senior partner at Browne Jacobson.
