Scott Gibson Featured on The Non-Billable Podcast in, “$20 million is the new benchmark in London: the City’s top headhunter on the law firm partner hiring frenzy”

Edwards Gibson director Scott Gibson was recently interviewed on The Non-Billable Podcast in an episode titled "$20 Million is the New Benchmark in London: the City’s top headhunter on the law firm partner hiring frenzy", where he shared his insights on the rapidly evolving law firm partner market, the record-breaking salaries reshaping the industry, and the shifting expectations for those looking to make partner.

With 25 years of experience as one of the City’s leading legal headhunters, Scott offered his take on the forces driving today’s red-hot lateral hiring market. He discussed how Paul Weiss’ headline-grabbing $20 million-a-year hires have set a new benchmark, prompting rivals to respond with increasingly aggressive compensation packages. He also addressed the often-unspoken reality of law firm ageism, highlighting how mandatory retirement ages place senior partners on “borrowed time” as firms focus on promoting the next generation.

For associates aspiring to partnership or junior partners considering a lateral move, Scott emphasised that being a technically excellent lawyer is no longer enough—firms are looking for individuals who can bring in business. He also spoke about the importance of strategic energy management, noting that the most successful lawyers know when to shift their focus from fee-earning to business development to secure their long-term future.

The full episode is available to listen to on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.