Leaders with Ambition

Hosted by Ambition UK

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Welcome to Leaders with Ambition, the podcast that dives deep into the careers of some of the most successful leaders working in professional services firms. We aim to discover the secrets behind their success, the challenges they face and to find out what traits make a successful leader. About the host: Nicky Acuna Ocana is the Regional Managing Director of Ambition, an international recruitment agency specialising in business services recruitment (Finance, Accounting, BD, Marketing, Insolvency, Restructuring and Corporate Finance) in professional services firms.

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June 8, 2026Episode 9350 min

Ep. 95- ''Dave Harvey- “Networking, networking, networking — the earlier you start, the better.”

With over 25 years of experience spanning in-house leadership roles and consultancy, Dave shares a candid perspective on navigating non-linear careers, leading global teams, and building influence within partnership-led organisations.From his early career in economic development during the tech boom to senior leadership roles at firms including Morrison & Foerster, Orrick, and Baker Botts, Dave reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership journey.The conversation explores the realities of scaling teams, managing change, and the growing pressures facing CMOs today — alongside practical insights on networking, resilience, and protecting against burnout in high-performance environments.A standout theme throughout is the power of community. Dave shares how his global CMO roundtables have created trusted peer networks that enable leaders to step back, think strategically, and navigate complexity together.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Leadership Transformation02:59 Dave's Career Journey in Legal Marketing05:46 Navigating Mergers and Building Resilience08:53 Transitioning to Consultancy and Family Considerations11:54 Innovative Marketing Strategies in Law Firms15:02 Managing Global Teams and Cultural Insights20:58 Leadership Challenges in Diverse Environments24:00 The Shift from In-House to Consultancy27:37 The Journey of Publishing a Harvard Case Study 29:35 The Importance of Mentorship and Sponsorship30:44 Transitioning from Management to Leadership32:48 The Role of Networking in Career Development34:51 Creating Global Networking Opportunities39:12 Managing Stress and Burnout in High-Pressure Roles40:23 Navigating Change and Building Resilience44:45 Challenges Facing Marketing Leaders Today48:28 The Importance of Strategic Thinking50:40 Words of Wisdom for Future Generations

May 11, 2026Episode 9445 min

Ep. 94 Julie Chodos- “Feedback is a gift - if people think you can take it, they’ll tell you more.”

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Julie Chodos, Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer at Axinn, Veltrop & Harkrider LLP, for a candid and far‑reaching conversation spanning leadership, non‑linear careers, and what it truly means to build and scale high‑performing teams in professional services.Julie brings a distinctive perspective shaped by a career that crosses law, tech start‑ups, public companies, consulting, and global law firms. Beginning her professional journey as a lawyer, Julie reflects on the pivotal moments that led her to transition from legal practice into business development, consulting, and ultimately senior leadership roles within professional services firm.Throughout the conversation, Julie shares how growing up as the eldest of five children in an immigrant family shaped her work ethic, resilience, and leadership style. She speaks openly about the importance of embracing risk, learning through doing, and valuing feedback — even when it is uncomfortable — as a critical driver of professional growth.Nicky and Julie explore the realities of navigating complex partnership environments, scaling teams, leading change, and balancing commercial performance with culture and people leadership. Drawing on her experience at BDO, Freshfields, and now Axinn, Veltrop & Harkrider LLP, Julie offers thoughtful insight into how CMBDOs and senior business leaders can add meaningful value within law firms today.The episode also delves into mentorship, sponsorship, and psychological safety — including why having a trusted peer group outside your firm can be just as critical as internal networks. Julie reflects on her long‑standing involvement with the Legal Marketing Association (LMA), highlighting the power of community, generosity, and connection in building sustainable careers.This conversation is essential listening for professionals navigating leadership roles in law firms or professional services — particularly those embracing non‑linear career paths and change‑driven environments.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Julie Chodos and Her Journey04:02 The Unexpected Path to Law06:07 Transitioning from Law to Tech Startups09:34 Consulting Career and Growth at BDO12:48 The Importance of Mentorship14:39 Building Resilience in a Challenging Environment16:10 Navigating Corporate Structures in Law18:51 The Role of Business Acumen in Law20:05 Imposter Syndrome and Taking the Leap21:47 Current Role at Axinn and Collaborative Culture22:31 Building Relationships in the Workplace23:16 The Importance of Mentorship and Sponsorship24:56 Networking in the Legal Community28:00 Psychological Safety and Supportive Networks29:46 Balancing Work and Personal Life31:49 Navigating Change in Law Firms35:00 Managing Multi-Generational Teams37:35 Challenges Facing CMBDOs in Law Firms39:49 The Evolution of C-Suite Roles in Law Firms42:25 Words of Wisdom for Future Generations

April 27, 2026Episode 9343 min

Ep. 93 Allyson Stewart-Allen- “If you don’t try it, you’ll never know what it could have been.”

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Allyson Stewart‑Allen, Founder and CEO of International Marketing Partners, for a wide‑ranging and deeply insightful conversation on international careers, professional services leadership, and the realities of global growth. A globally recognised authority on the internationalisation of professional services firms, Allyson brings decades of experience advising leaders across legal, consulting, accounting, and advisory businesses.Originally from Los Angeles and now based in London, Allyson shares how early exposure to international life — including growing up in Munich and studying languages — shaped her worldview and ultimately her career.Allyson reflects on her professional journey from PwC, PA Consulting Group, and Hay Group to founding her own consultancy in the early 1990s. She speaks candidly about recognising early on that traditional corporate environments weren’t where she did her best work — and the courage it took to build something of her own.The conversation explores Allyson’s bestselling book, Working with Americans, written in response to years of being asked the same cross‑cultural questions by global leaders. Allyson explains how the book came to life, why cross‑cultural understanding is still widely misunderstood, and how global firms continue to underestimate the complexity of international expansion.Nicky and Allyson also unpack the real differences between mentoring, sponsorship, and executive coaching, drawing on Allyson’s experience as both a mentee and mentor. 3Allyson shares why mentorship has been particularly influential in her career — and why sponsorship is often the missing ingredient for progression in professional services.The episode also dives into the biggest challenges facing leaders in professional services today, including global‑versus‑local tensions, leadership transitions from technical expert to firm leader, and the growing importance of culture, people leadership, and adaptability. Allyson offers thoughtful, practical insight from her work with senior partners, CMOs, and leadership teams across international firms.This episode is essential listening for professionals navigating international careers, leadership transitions, and growth within professional services environments.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Allyson Stewart-Allen01:57 Allyson's Journey and Background09:02 Career Path and Professional Growth16:08 The Process of Writing a Book19:41 Broadcasting Experience and Public Speaking23:56 Mentoring, Sponsorship, and Coaching24:17 The Value of Mentoring and Coaching26:07 The Importance of Sponsorship in Career Development28:33 Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurial Life32:20 Networking: Building Relationships for Success34:57 Consultancy Work and Its Impact37:50 Challenges Facing Leaders in Professional Services41:13 The Evolution of Leadership in Modern Times42:47 Taking Risks and Embracing Opportunities

April 13, 2026Episode 9243 min

Ep. 92 Kerri Vermeylen - ''Careers are built through experiences, not perfectly mapped plans.”

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Kerri Vermeylen, Chief Marketing Officer at Sidley Austin LLP, for an honest and reflective conversation on leadership, career evolution, and building a long‑term career in legal marketing.Kerri shares her unconventional journey from growing up in the Midwest United States to studying and living abroad in Oxford and France — experiences that sparked a lifelong connection to Europe and ultimately led her to build a global career from Brussels. What began as a short study stint evolved into a 30‑year international chapter shaped by curiosity, courage, and openness to opportunity.She reflects on the pivotal moments of serendipity that shaped her career — including a chance dinner conversation that led to her first role in a law firm — and how saying yes to unfamiliar environments helped her discover where she thrives: in fast‑paced, intellectually demanding, people‑driven organisations.Throughout the conversation, Kerri offers thoughtful insight into the transition from management to leadership, leading international and remote teams, and how global roles require adaptability, trust, and cultural awareness. She speaks candidly about the importance of mentorship, sponsorship, and peer networks, as well as the role executive coaching and feedback have played in her growth.The discussion also explores the realities of sustaining a demanding global role — from managing travel and time zones to protecting energy and preventing burnout — alongside Kerri’s grounded perspective on work‑life “balance” as an ongoing recalibration rather than a fixed state.Kerri also shares her take on the evolving profession of legal marketing, the accelerating pace of change driven by technology and AI, and why curiosity, good questions, and human judgment will remain critical to leadership success.This episode offers practical, reassuring insight for marketing and business development professionals navigating growth, change, and leadership — particularly within professional services environments.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Kerri's Journey02:15 Early Life and Education: A Foundation for Growth09:49 Career Beginnings: Serendipity in Legal Marketing16:09 Transition to Europe: Embracing New Opportunities19:21 Finding Passion in Legal Marketing23:15 The Evolution of Legal Marketing and Future Trends24:23 Transitioning from Management to Leadership26:35 Balancing Work and Family Life29:29 Finding Personal Balance and Avoiding Burnout32:35 The Importance of Mentorship and Career Intentionality36:40 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome39:05 Navigating Change in the Legal Industry41:48 Cultivating a Positive Workplace Culture43:40 The Power of Curiosity and Asking Questions

March 23, 2026Episode 9144 min

Ep. 91 Kathleen Ford - ''Networking is a skill that improves with practice.''

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Kathleen Ford, Director and Head of Global Communications at Kearney, for an open and insightful conversation on leadership, career development, and the evolving role of communications.Kathleen shares her unconventional career journey from studying history and interning on Capitol Hill to working in public affairs, agency life, and ultimately building and leading a global communications function at a top management consultancy. She reflects on the idea of a “career patchwork” — where every experience, skill, and challenge contributes to a broader leadership quilt — and how adaptability, curiosity, and saying yes to opportunities have shaped her path.Throughout the conversation, Kathleen speaks candidly about mentoring and coaching, navigating imposter syndrome, building confidence through executive coaching, and the responsibility leaders have to create space for others to grow.The discussion also explores the modern challenges facing communications professionals, including the rise of AI, declining email engagement, and the need to constantly evolve while protecting authenticity and human voice. Kathleen’s mantra — “keep evolving and make it compelling” — runs through the episode as a guiding principle for future‑focused leadership.This episode offers thoughtful, practical insight for communications, marketing, and professional services leaders at all stages of their careers.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Authentic Leadership01:21 Kathleen's Career Journey06:16 Transitioning Roles and Responsibilities10:43 Building a Communications Team15:26 Navigating Challenges During COVID-1917:51 Managing Stress and Burnout21:31 The Importance of Mentorship and Sponsorship22:19 Navigating Career Opportunities and Mentorship24:21 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Building Confidence27:44 The Importance of Networking in Professional Growth31:55 Leadership Philosophy: Supporting Others to Succeed33:43 Adapting to AI in Communications38:53 The Value of Personal Branding

March 9, 202646 min

Ep. 90 Gillian Ward-''Everything in life happens for a reason, you might not know it at the time.”

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuña Ocaña is joined by Gillian Ward, Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer at Reed Smith.Gillian shares her remarkable career journey from growing up in a small town in South Yorkshire to leading global marketing and business development functions at some of the world’s most prestigious international law firms.Starting her career in the steel and engineering industries, Gillian made a bold and unexpected transition into legal marketing, a move sparked by a chance conversation on a plane that ultimately shaped the rest of her professional life.Throughout the conversation, Gillian reflects on the power of mentorship and sponsorship, the importance of building trusted networks, and the courage required to take risks before you feel ready.She speaks candidly about navigating imposter syndrome, leading through complexity, and what it truly means to move from management into leadership.The episode also explores Gillian’s instrumental role in helping to establish the Legal Marketing Association (LMA) in London and Europe, her experience leading transatlantic teams across the US, UK, and Europe, and the realities of running global businesses in markets that are culturally and commercially very different.Gillian also shares deeply personal reflections on balancing a demanding international career with motherhood, raising twins while travelling extensively, and the sacrifices and rewards, that come with ambition. This is an honest, thoughtful, and inspiring conversation for anyone navigating leadership, growth, and global careers.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gillian's Journey02:52 Career Transition: From Engineering to Legal Marketing05:30 The Importance of Mentorship and Networking08:08 Building Relationships with Managing Partners10:56 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome13:33 Creating a Supportive Network16:35 Establishing the Legal Marketing Association in Europe19:17 Navigating Global Roles and Cultural Differences22:01 The Impact of COVID-19 on Leadership24:50 Balancing Career and Motherhood27:39 Challenges and Opportunities for CMOs in Law Firms30:27 Words of Wisdom for Future Generations

February 23, 2026Episode 8953 min

Ep. 89 Alistair Johnson- ''Treat people with kindness, you never know when your paths will cross again.”

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuna Ocana welcomes Alistair Johnson, an experienced Chief Operating Officer and senior change and transformation leader whose career began in the British Army before spanning technology, consulting, and professional services.Alistair shares his journey from a formative start at Sandhurst and operational tours in the British Army to senior leadership roles within large, international organisations and leading law firms, including Clifford Chance and RPC.He reflects candidly on how early exposure to leadership under pressure shaped his people‑first philosophy and his ability to remain calm in high‑stakes environments.Throughout the conversation, Alistair offers powerful insights into the transition from management to leadership, the importance of humility, and why empowering others is the hallmark of effective leadership.He discusses navigating imposter syndrome, the value of mentoring and sponsorship, and how intentional career decisions, including moves between large organisations, SMEs, and start‑ups shaped his path.Alistair also explores the evolving challenges facing professional services leaders today, from rising costs and talent pressures to AI, automation, and the need to balance profitability with wellbeing. With practical wisdom and honest reflection, this episode is packed with lessons for emerging and experienced leaders alike.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Alistair Johnson02:01 Alistair's Military Background and Early Career09:12 Transitioning to Civilian Life and Corporate Roles16:14 Lessons from Startups and Challenges Faced19:54 Finding a Role in Law Firms and Embracing New Opportunities26:08 Leadership Lessons and Collaborative Work27:09 The Importance of Empowering Teams31:32 Career Transitions and the Role of Mentorship35:56 Navigating Challenges as a COO40:36 The Evolving Landscape of Professional Services46:54 Managing Stress and Prioritising Workloads50:53 Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Professionals

February 9, 2026Episode 8844 min

Ep. 88 Nicola Meritt - ''Resilience isn’t toughness it’s having space for things to go wrong'

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuna Ocana welcomes Nicola Merritt, Founder & CEO of Cortus Advisory Group.Nicola shares her journey from growing up in the North of England in an entrepreneurial family to building and scaling a multi-office advisory firm. From selling handmade gifts at primary school to founding and leading a fast-growing professional services business, Nicola’s story is one of focus, discipline, and bold decision-making.Throughout the conversation, Nicola reflects on her early career ambitions, her formative years at KPMG, and the pivotal moments that led her to step away from partnership to launch her own firm during the COVID period. She offers thoughtful insights into modern leadership, the importance of culture, empathy, resilience, and why creating space to think is essential for long-term success.Nicola also speaks openly about confidence, motherhood, managing pressure, personal growth, and redefining what success truly means both professionally and personally. This episode is packed with practical wisdom for leaders, founders, and anyone navigating ambition alongside real life.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Nicola Merritt02:05 Growing Up in the North: Early Influences04:42 The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Crafting and Selling06:09 Education and Career Path: KPMG Experience09:54 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship11:40 The Inflection Point: Launching Cortis Advisory Group14:30 The Importance of Mentorship17:07 Building Networks: Internal and External19:03 Creating a Strong Company Culture21:29 Listening to Every Voice in the Organisation22:38 The Importance of Listening and Communication23:24 Reflecting on Leadership Styles24:33 The Six Pillars of Effective Leadership28:09 The Role of Empathy in Leadership30:35 Personal Growth and Work-Life Balance34:04 The Importance of Self-Care and Recovery37:40 Supporting Female Leaders and Advocacy40:33 Challenges in the Industry and Future Outlook43:03 Words of Wisdom for Young Leaders

January 26, 202640 min

Ep. 87 Seema Jones- ''You have to take ownership of your career and decide what you want.''

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuna Ocana welcomes Seema Jones, CFO & COO at Town Legal.Seema shares her journey from her upbringing in Manchester and Bolton to holding dual executive roles at a leading law firm. She offers candid insights on the transition from management to leadership, the power of networks, and the importance of resilience and continuous learning.Seema discusses her varied career across global corporations, SMEs, and the public sector, highlighting the value of adaptability, the impact of mentoring, and the challenges of balancing work and family life. She also reflects on the evolving landscape of professional services, including the rise of AI and the critical role of culture in attracting and retaining talent.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Seema Jones and Key Themes01:50 Seema’s Early Life and Career Origins02:46 Discovering Accounting 05:06 Qualifying as a Chartered Accountant05:36 Moving into Industry07:01 Life on the Trading Floor07:49 Leadership Responsibilities in Manchester09:33 Using Networks to Create Career Opportunities10:33 Career Break and Family Priorities11:21 Public Sector Experience and New Perspectives13:26 Joining Towne Meagle as Finance Director14:03 Combining the CFO and COO Roles15:59 Adapting to the Legal Profession17:49 Building a Strong Legal Sector Network19:47 Ownership, Resilience and Leadership Mindset23:22 Vulnerability, Flexibility and Career Choices24:55 Transitioning from Management to Leadership26:52 The Value of Mentoring28:13 Continuous Learning and Career Development30:14 In‑Person Learning vs Remote Work34:25 Volunteering and Work‑Life Balance35:08 Key Challenges Facing Leaders Today37:52 Culture, Retention and Attracting Talent39:05 Legacy and Long‑Term Impact40:12 Values, Integrity and Resilience42:14 Taking Safe Risks and Trusted Advisors43:30 Leading Across Cultures45:05 Words of Wisdom for Future Leaders46:00 Closing Reflections

January 13, 2026Episode 8642 min

Ep. 86 Rhys Madoc- “Being a leader is not about knowing all the answers, but about making sure together we can get the solutions.”

In this episode of Leaders with Ambition, host Nicky Acuna Ocana welcomes Rhys Madoc, CEO of UHY International.Rhys shares his journey from a childhood steeped in the arts to leading a global accounting and consulting network, offering insights on leadership, culture, innovation, and the importance of continuous learning.Rhys discusses his transition from the world of theatre and television to international business, the challenges and rewards of building teams across cultures, and the evolving role of technology and AI in professional services.He also reflects on the legacy he hopes to leave and shares practical advice for aspiring leaders.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Rhys Madoc's Journey01:21 Exploring Career Goals and Progression04:21 The Importance of International Business09:33 Cultural Significance in Professional Services09:48 Networking in Professional Services12:14 Leadership Development and Personal Growth13:11 The Role of Mentoring in Career Advancement14:23 Work-Life Balance and Stress Management15:17 Addressing Imposter Syndrome16:22 Challenges in Professional Services17:23 Legacy and Words of Wisdom for Future Leaders