Our Thinking
Knowledge Hub
Environment, Social and Governance: Supporting firms to deliver positive change
Environment, Social and Governance (ESG), Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainability strategies have become critical components of today’s business infrastructure, including professional services firms. That
How do your salaries compare? Totum delivers Business Services Reward Survey 2023
Findings from Totum’s Business Services Reward Survey 2023 show law firms competing hard on salaries, bonuses and benefits to secure the best business skills and
Totum Report 2023: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
We are proud to introduce our Totum 2023 report: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. This is our sixth year of publishing our diversity statistics and analysis,
The sweet smell of success: Building your career with Lara Mitchard
In a piece first published in PSMG Magazine, Totum’s Marketing & BD consultant Lara Mitchard spoke with three of the Rising Star judges in recognition of Totum’s
Totum Technology: Unlocking potential in professional services
At Totum, we have a deep understanding of the ways in which technology is transforming capabilities across the professional services sector. In our guide, ‘Totum
Rise of the Legal COO: Second Edition with Laura McNair
A comprehensive guide to the changing role of the law firm COO. Totum’s Head of People & Operations Practice Laura McNair collaborated with Global Law
Changing the focus: How to source great Finance Business Partners
Finance teams are investing and developing in their Finance Business Partnering capabilities as firms increasingly seek to link finance with commercial thinking to drive performance.
Optimising profitability: Nigel Laws, Withers
Nigel Laws, Head of Pricing at Withers, has been part of the legal pricing world right from the start. In our most recent report, Developments
Secrets of success: How to get ahead in Marketing and BD
In recognition of Totum’s Rising Star Award 2023, Totum Consultant Lara Mitchard asks three of our Rising Star judges, all leaders in marketing and business development
A year of being a Rising Star with Amanda Birch, BCLP
In light of re-launching our BD & Marketing Rising Star Award we spoke with last year’s winner Amanda Birch, Marketing & Business Development Executive at
The commercial shift: Adrian Avanzato, Ashurst
Totum’s recent report, Developments in the Legal Pricing Function, featured an in-depth discussion with Adrian Avanzato. The commercial side of pricing is explored, taking the practise
The changing world of pricing with Stuart Dodds
Totum’s recent report, Developments in the Legal Pricing Function, featured an in-depth Q&A with Stuart Dodds, who was one of the first Pricing Directors in the
A year for agile thinking
In a piece first published by PM Magazine, Totum Consultant Emma Johnston takes a look at the recruitment market into 2023 and argues the case for a
How Black British Leaders Succeed in Organisations and Why It Matters
Is referring to race at work dangerous for career progression? How can black people and others feel open to express their whole selves at work?
Developments in the legal pricing function: Totum report 2022
The legal sector’s pricing function has big ambitions to take a pivotal place in the legal sector’s commercial future, according to the findings from our
‘Breaking the Bias’ with Sadie Baron as a Female Leader in Marketing
Break the bias: Sadie Baron, Reed Smith In this piece, Totum Director Deborah Gray talks to Sadie Baron, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at Reed Smith,
Returning to the office: The agile workplace
Hybrid working is now a permanent feature of most workplaces and it is offered to all employees, most of whom attend the office no more
It’s back! Totum’s business services reward survey
To provide clarity and insight into today’s salary and bonus structures for business services professionals in law, we are delighted to announce that we are
Interim, temporary and contract roles: A Totum guide for recruiting short-term talent
The interim, temporary and contract market is a particularly exciting area of recruitment right now that is attracting more fantastic candidates and presenting firms with
Best Business Leaders: Winner’s profile – Adam Soames, Hogan Lovells
In the fourth of our series profiling our five winners of Totum’s Best Business Leaders awards, we are delighted to talk to Adam Soames, Global
Best Business Leaders: Winner’s profile – Brooke Johnston, DAC Beachcroft
In the third piece in our series profiling our five winners from Totum’s Best Business Leaders awards, we are delighted to talk to Brooke Johnston,
Move to London – London Guide
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what to expect when working in the United Kingdom, in particular London. If you are interested in relocating
The Rise of the COO
Highlights from Totum’s latest research and advice on COO recruitment. The rise of the Chief Operating Officer (COO) is arguably one of the most important
Best Business Leaders: Winner’s profile – Elizabeth McGarrity, Fragomen
In a continuation of our series profiling our five winners from Totum’s Best Business Leaders awards, we are delighted to talk to Elizabeth McGarrity, Senior
Best Business Leaders: Winner’s profile – Stacey Rickford, Travers Smith
In the next few weeks, we will be publishing profiles of the five winners of our Best Business Leaders awards, announced earlier in the summer.
Benefits of interim and short-term contracts
Emma Johnston recently joined Totum in a bid to actively establish our interim practise. Emma spoke with Head of Marketing, Sarah Broad as she detailed
Rising Stars reveal marketing’s rising status
In a piece first published in PSMG’s Centrum magazine, Totum BD & Marketing Consultants’ Joanna Milne and Lara Mitchard report on Totum’s Rising Star Award
‘Breaking the Bias’ with Bruna Pellicci as a Female Leader in Technology
Totum Director, Deborah Gray speaks with Bruna Pellicci, Chief Technology Officer at Linklaters, and one of the very few female leaders in technology. As part
Rising to the challenge: Leadership trends 2016-22
Highlights from Totum’s latest research into business services leadership placements, incorporating figures for 2021/22. What do our latest figures tell us about senior level recruitment
Raising awareness, raising funds: The Sickle Cell Society
Carolyn Beckford-Balogun is a recruitment consultant in our finance and accounts division making placements across all finance roles, at all levels of seniority. But this
Best Business Leaders Awards 2022: And the winners are…
We are thrilled to announce the winners of Totum’s Best Business Leaders Awards 2022, representing a small number of exemplary role models who have excelled
From the Paralympics to law: Amy Marren on diversity at work
We were recently delighted to welcome swimming Paralympian and apprentice lawyer Amy Marren to a Totum knowledge-sharing session. Here, we share some of the highlights
Ruggs Gig – 29th September – Under the Bridge
We’re delighted to say that Totum’s own Founding Director Tim Skipper and Head of HR & Operations Practice Laura McNair will be playing at Under the
Achieving your career goals: María Gabriela Bencid
In late 2021, Totum Consultant Lacey Near was delighted to support María Gabriela Bencid (Gaby), a highly personable and articulate Project Manager for help in moving
5 minutes with Hannah Leon Soon
Hannah is a Consultant in Totum’s specialist HR team, recruiting senior HR and Operations candidates within professional services and law firms. 5 mins with HR
EU Directive demands third of board members are women by 2026
In a piece first published in HR Magazine Totum Founding Director Deborah Gray shares her insight on female representation and the importance of this to
Women are more negatively affected by hybrid working than men, and this is why
In a piece first published in The Accountant Totum Founding Director Deborah Gray details the affect hybrid-working has had on women in professional services. A pattern is emerging across
Addressing the Burgeoning Culture Crisis in the Legal Sector
In a piece first published in International Law.Com (Legal Week) Totum Founding Director Deborah Gray shares her expert opinion on the recent cultural shift within
Unique business, unique roles: Placing talent at Avail
Today’s professional services sector boasts many newly created roles (particularly in areas such as technology, change and transformation) that require a different mix of skills
Stephenson Harwood has divided the City
In an article first published in The Lawyer, data from our recent ‘return to the office survey’ is discussed as strategic insights are shared to
Prioritising business services roles is key to law firms’ recovery
In a piece first published in Reports Legal Totum Founding Director Deborah Gray shares her insight on the value of business services roles and their
The great return: Getting back to the office in a hybrid world
Three quarters of firms have now implemented a hybrid-working policy, with nearly half (49%) stating the policy is a permanent change, meaning that many employees
Combatting talent shortages in the legal and other professional services sectors
In a piece first published by IFLR1000 Totum Founding Director Deborah Gray shares her insight on how the ‘Great Resignation’ has affected law firms. The
Know how: Law Firms and Retaining Talent
In a piece first published by PLC Magazine (Practical Law), Founding Director of Totum Deborah Gray discusses the strategies that law firms should implement in
Job spotlight: The Legal Cashier
In a piece first published by The Institute of Legal Finance & Management, Totum Finance Consultant Carolyn Beckford Balogun takes a look at the role
How Can Businesses Foster Diversity?
In a piece first published in Finance Monthly Totum Director Deborah Gray outlines key tips to help businesses attract diverse talent. The business case
Hybrid working: How will it impact your career? Totum report 2022
Improved productivity, better work-life balance and improved wellbeing and health… All are benefits of hybrid working according to our latest survey of the changing workplace.
Recognition for Best Business Leaders
Welcome to Totum’s ‘Best Business Leaders’ awards 2022. Over the past two years, professional services firms have faced challenges that have put business services leaders
ESG…and the recruitment struggle
In a piece first published in PMSG’s Centrum magazine, Totum Director Deborah Gray looks at ways in which professional services firms are approaching ESG. How
How businesses can act to retain talent
In a piece first published in Elite Business Totum Director Deborah Gray sheds light on how firms can hold onto talent as staff retention is
Great Resignation can stay Stateside if UK employers focus on employee needs
In a piece on the Great Resignation first published in Global Banking & Finance Review, Totum Director Deborah Gray considers how firms can hold on
The hybrid office: Keeping everyone happy?
In a piece first published in Legal Abacus, Totum Consultant Carolyn Beckford Balogun looks at latest approaches to hybrid working, implications for the finance function, and
Diversity and equality in law firms: A personal journey
Anglo-Australian Legal Services veteran Paul Khan shares his personal experiences of working in the legal sector as a mixed-race professional and how they have impacted
Dancing to a different beat: Succeeding as a woman in business
Totum’s Marketing and Project Manager Sarah Broad provides some personal tips on succeeding as a woman in business. She shares insights on gender equality taken
The rise of business partnering in finance
Totum Consultant Dee Deol considers the rise of business partnering in finance within professional services firms. What does the remit and responsibilities of the Finance Business Partner
Perks of the job? Employee Benefits Survey 2022
Law firms are offering a wide range of generous benefits that make up an increasingly important part of the overall compensation package on offer to
5 mins with HR Recruiter, Briony Jenkins
It has been a while since we have shared a ‘5 mins with…’ but with new team members on board, we thought it was high
How to become a Rising Star Winner: Amanda Birch, BCLP
We talk to Amanda Birch, Legal Marketing & BD Executive and Totum Rising Star Award Winner 2022, about her life and career in law so
Diversity in Recruitment: Totum Report 2022
We are delighted to once again publish Totum’s latest diversity in recruitment statistics (our fifth year of publishing our diversity figures!). We include details of
Webinar: How to Thrive in a Law Firm
Totum Director Rebecca Ellis will be sharing latest news and trends in professional services recruitment at the Legal Marketing Association (LMA) Europe’s webinar: How to
Totum Rising Star Award: And the winner is…
We announce the winner of our Totum Rising Star Award, which celebrates the achievements of more junior professionals working in marketing and business development in
Dispelling fear: Zia Chaudhry and the makings of community
Diversity & inclusivity (D&I) can still feel like a tick-box exercise. But Barrister, Speaker and Author Zia Chaudhry inspires a different outlook – one in
Support SEND Kids: Helping the next generation thrive
We take a closer look at one of Totum’s chosen charities in 2022: Support SEND Kids. How does it work with parents to ensure children get
What’s in a Job Title?
What titles make up a law firm marketing and BD team and how do individuals progress up the ranks? Totum’s latest research explores the roles
Don’t rely on lawyers for your firm’s success
We were recently delighted to see our research quoted in a piece in The Lawyer (‘Don’t rely on lawyers for your firm’s success‘, 10 December),
What’s it like to join Totum?
As Totum continues its expansion plans into 2022, we thought it would be helpful to share the perspectives of two of our Consultants who have
Force for change: Justin Gyphion, Slaughter and May
We talk to Justin Gyphion about his career in legal recruitment and his initiatives to improve diversity via blind recruitment campaigns. Justin Gyphion, Senior Recruitment
How Professional Services firms can ensure they embed diversity and inclusion into their recruitment policy
In a piece first published in Business Express, Totum Director Deborah Gray looks at how embedding long-term diversity and inclusion strategies into recruitment policies should be at the
How to find a career sponsor: Nine tips for success
Here we offer advice on how to find a career sponsor and why it’s a good idea, plus nine key tips for success. ‘It’s not
Totum’s first non-executive director, Christine Lynch
We are delighted to welcome Chris Lynch, formerly Global HR Director at Linklaters, as our first Non-Executive Director. Her outstanding experience in some of the
Return to the office: Totum survey report 2021
We report on the highlights from our latest research into how firms are planning a post-Covid workplace into 2022. Flexibility may remain a priority, but
Recruitment drive sees 83 per cent of UK firms embed flexible working policies
We were delighted in November to see Totum’s latest research into flexible working policies post-Covid get coverage in a variety of publications, including UK News Group, Business
Excellence in leadership: A Totum guide to recruiting Chief, Director and ‘Head of’ roles in professional services
Hiring an individual to lead a business services function in a professional services firm is a complex job requiring the prescience to understand exactly what
Changes in the Legal Workplace: Insights from CBRE
In a guest editorial, commercial real estate and investment firm CBRE shares insights into the changing workplace and how it impacts the way the legal sector will
Selecting the right hiring strategy in today’s very difficult recruitment market
In a piece first published in Business Express, Totum Director Deborah Gray explores how firms can find the best hiring strategy to secure the right talent. While the
The changing role of the CFO: What Tech adoption and a widening remit means for financial leaders
In a piece first published in Business Express, Martyn Draper, Head of Finance Practice at Totum explores the changing role of the CFO and how they are
Webinar report: How black professionals navigate the world of business services
Marking Black History Month, and as part of our ongoing series of events reflecting Totum’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, we were delighted to
Professional services firm to recruitment agency: Why make the move?
Ever thought of taking your business services expertise into a recruitment role? We share some of the experiences of those who did just that at
Property firms must move with the ESG tide
We are delighted to reproduce our letter on ESG in Property Firms, as published in the Property Week on 1st October 2021. By Deborah Gray, Director,
Letter: Diversity officers must be more than token roles
We are delighted to reproduce our letter on chief diversity officers, as published in the Financial Times on the 20th September 2021. By Deborah Gray, Director,
Rewarding leadership: Chief and Director salary and bonus report
Throughout all the disruption of the past year, one constant at Totum was continued law firm leadership recruitment, catering for the most senior roles across
Changing workplace means increased responsibilities for the head of finance
In a piece first published in Workplace Insight Totum’s head of finance practice, Martyn Draper, discusses our recent Finance survey and explains how the finance function
Making a Difference: Employee Mental Health in Professional Services
In a piece first published in Undercover Recruiter one of Totum’s founding directors and cross-sector recruiter, Deborah Gray, discusses employee mental health in professional services. Pre-Covid,
Totum Event: How black professionals navigate the world of business services
As part of our ongoing series of events reflecting our commitment to diversity, equity & inclusion, Totum invites you to join our virtual event and
Gender equality in a post-covid legal sector workplace
In a piece first published in International Employment Lawyer, one of Totum’s founding directors and cross-sector recruiter, Deborah Gray, discusses workplace gender equality in the legal
Supporting legal project managers of the future: Q&A with Helga Butcher, Ashurst
Helga Butcher is a highly experienced Legal Project Manager, currently working as Interim Head of Legal Project Management (LPM) and Process Improvement (EMEA) at Ashurst.
The art of the possible: Spearheading BD & marketing in Europe
We talk to Ernestine McKay about her international career in professional services, BD and marketing in Europe, and how Totum helped her to find her current dream
More than half of law firms use exceptional bonuses to retain top talent, new Totum Partners survey reveals
In a piece first published in UK News Group, Totum discuss their findings on how law firms use bonuses to attract and retain top talent: More
Why CFOs really matter to law firms
In a piece first published in Reports Legal, Martyn Draper, Head of Totum’s Finance Practice, explains how the finance function and role of a law firm
Law firms turn to exceptional and sign-on bonuses to retain and attract top talent
In a piece first published in International Employment Lawyer, Totum discusses their latest Bonus and salary research, as law firms turn to exceptional and sign-on bonuses
The future is hybrid?
In a piece first published in PSMG’s Centrum magazine, Totum Director Rebecca Ellis and Consultant Liz Chappell share their insights gained from many conversations with professional services firms over the past
Multiple offers and counter-offers: How to win the competition for talent
After days, weeks or even months of sourcing, shortlisting and interviewing candidates, you have finally identified the right candidate for the role. But, with many
Why millennials are the driving force behind corporate ESG policies
In a piece first published in People Management, Totum Director Deborah Gray discusses why Environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategy is becoming a more prominent priority for businesses
Webinar report: To hybrid or not to hybrid?
Totum was recently delighted to join PSMG to host a joint webinar, ‘To hybrid or not to hybrid? Returning to the office’. Totum’s Tim Skipper
Why law firms need to develop genuine sustainability policies
In a piece first published in International Employment Lawyer, Totum Director Deborah Gray discusses the importance of law firms getting ESG right by developing a sustainability policy if
Do not ignore ESG when recruiting
In a letter recently published in Property Week, Totum Director Deborah Gray, discusses ESG and recruitment and explains why property firms must take an authentic
Leadership roles in law 2016-2021
As we emerge from a rollercoaster year of pandemic, we are delighted to published Totum’s PDF report on leadership placements in the legal sector since
Virtual interviews: Mishaps and learnings
In a piece first published in The Professionals, Totum consultant Georgia Cooke looks back on a year of virtual interviews and lessons for the future.
Making a difference: Mental health in professional services
Mental Health Awareness Week (10-16 May) this year is timed perfectly to get us all thinking about the impact of the past year on mental
Developments in the finance function: Highlights from Totum’s 2021 report
The finance function is evolving rapidly in the legal sector. We are delighted to publish some of the key findings from Totum’s latest survey into
Event: To hybrid or not to hybrid? Returning to the office
Join Totum’s Tim Skipper, Laura McNair and Carly Hubbard, Head of HR, Travers Smith for a joint event with PSMG on the 24th June at 11 – 12pm
Autism in the workplace: Opening minds
World Autism Awareness Week (29th March to 4th April), provides all of us in the professional services sector with the opportunity to reflect on the
What’s in a job title? Chief vs Director
It is fast becoming one of the most common questions we are asked when recruiting leadership roles. Totum Director Deborah Gray asks whether a senior
Diversity in recruitment: Totum report 2021
Diversity in recruitment remains an important topic. Totum is delighted to publish its latest report on diversity, based on statistics gathered from candidates through 2020.
Event report: Gender equity in a post-Covid workplace’
Totum’s Deborah Gray, recruitment specialist for senior management professionals, was recently delighted to host a virtual ‘Gender equity in a post-Covid workplace’ event. She was
Hoping to fly: Recruitment life 2020-2021
We look back over the past year from the first lockdown to spring 2021. It might bring back some memories – we hope you enjoy
Returning to the office? Totum survey on hybrid working
To hybrid or not to hybrid? Find out the results from Totum’s latest snap survey of professional services firms on hybrid working and their planned
International Women’s Day: Choose to challenge
International Women’s Day (IWD) is a day for reflection for many. Totum Consultant Joanna Milne considers the current landscape and the practical steps to ensuring
Totum Event: Gender equity in a post-covid workplace.
Join Totum’s Deborah Gray, recruitment specialist for senior management professionals, for our virtual ‘Gender equity in a post-covid workplace’ event with Julia Hayhoe – Managing
Marketing careers in property: Ali Hellewell, Gerald Eve
Marketing careers in property can be hugely challenging – and equally rewarding. Rebecca Ellis, Director at Totum talks to Ali Hellewell, Marketing and Business Development
Podcast: Roles and trends in BD and marketing recruitment
BD & Marketing recruitment is nearly as busy as it was pre-pandemic. But what are the latest recruitment trends in terms of people, roles, expectations
Journey through Lockdown: Diary of an HR Recruiter in Covid
Totum’s HR recruiter Laura McNair looks back on her year of virtual recruitment and how professional services firms rode the rollercoaster of Covid from a home
Law firm marketing and BD survey: Adapting to change
Law firm marketing is a key function in helping win and retain clients. What are the latest trends in law firm marketing? How are law
Podcast: Roles and trends in people and HR recruitment
HR recruitment is evolving. What are the latest trends in HR recuitment in terms of people, roles, expecations and job opportunities? Totum Consultants Laura McNair
Webinar recording: The Future of Pricing
This week, we were delighted to co-host the Future of Pricing event, with Stuart Dodds, Principal at Positive Pricing. The event was attended by over
Virtual interviews: ten tips for success
Virtual interviews are more important than ever before. Recruitment over the past few months has changed significantly. Virtual interview processes have come to the fore
Totum Event: What is your firm’s future pricing strategy?
We are delighted to co-host this Future of Pricing event, presented by Stuart Dodds, Principal at Positive Pricing which will take place on the 27th January at 12.30 –
Webinar recording: Adapting to change – choose your marketing future
Totum’s Rebecca Ellis and Lacey Near, marketing & BD recruitment specialists, were delighted to join PSMG for a joint event in which they explored key
Webinar recording: How to create the most diverse company in Britain
Diversity and inclusion (D&I) has become a major issue in these recent months, highlighted by Covid and the widespread Black Lives Matter protests of earlier
Totum Event – Adapting to change; choose your marketing future
Join Totum’s Rebecca Ellis and Lacey Near, Marketing & BD recruitment specialists, for a joint event with PSMG on the 9th December at 12 –
Ten things… Lessons from Covid for a better future
Laura McNair, a Consultant who heads up Totum’s specialist HR recruitment and operations team, explains the many good lessons that have come out of this difficult
Driving buses & the future of law
Elliot Nash, a Consultant at Totum specialising in operations, transformation and change roles, talks to Sarah Walker-Smith about her CEO role at Shakespeare Martineau. The
Covid and returning to work from maternity leave
Roisin Ashmore, a Consultant specialising in HR recruitment at Totum, went on maternity leave in September 2019. The world was very different back then… In
Adapting to change: Totum survey explores latest developments in law firm marketing and BD teams
In response to frequent requests from our law firm clients for benchmarking data on the marketing and BD (M&BD) function, Totum has recently undertaken our
How to create the most diverse company in Britain
We believe that the firms that thrive are those with the most diverse team; but there are always challenges and we are continually working to
ESG as a business force for good practice
Totum Talks · ESG is a Business Force For Good Practice In a podcast focused on sustainability and environmental, social and governance (ESG), Debbie Gray,
Talent acquisition: Fingers on the pulse
From a shifting picture of demand for legal firms’ services to the post-pandemic shakedown, Totum recruitment consultants Tim Skipper and Laura McNair tell People in
Legal Project Management is No Longer a Luxury
‘Legal project management’ (LPM) as a term has become as much of a buzzword as ‘innovation’ or ‘AI’. But the positive effects of implementing project
Keep on keeping on
As we go into Lockdown #2, Totum Director Tim Skipper gives us his perspective on working through uncertainty #recruitment #onboarding #keepsmiling
Wellbeing – are you looking after yourselves?
It’s wellbeing week and it has never been more important than it is now. Covid-19 is likely to still be with us for some time
5 benefits to working in a temporary role
In these times of change and uncertainty, temporary roles become more popular – most obviously, they can help to sustain income in the absence of
6 months on … Recruitment in a pandemic
Six months since lockdown, Totum Directors Gary Jones & Deboray Gray share their views on the professional services recruitment market and the different areas of
Legal lockdown: Hiring without meeting
Recruiting the right person for the right role is never an easy challenge. But doing it at a time when no one can physically meet
No one said this would be easy – but positive change will outlive Covid
In a piece first published in PSMG’s Centrum magazine, Rebecca Ellis, Director at Totum, discusses the latest trends in recruitment in professional services, and how
In the new rules of the office, we are happy to lead the way …
We know that the rules of the office have changed. And along with firms such as Linklaters, DLA Piper, Baker McKenzie and others, we at
Tips to stand out in a Covid job market
September is always a good time to review your career as new jobs come onto the market and people decide to make a change before
Returning to the office? Or not?
With September upon us, many will be facing the question of returning to the office – or not. Many firms have been conducting employee surveys
Professionally speaking: Covid 19 and the professional services sector
The professional services sector is vital to the UK economy through Covid. Including law and accountancy firms, real estate and management consulting firms, professional services
What is the market really like?
Five months after we closed the London office (can you believe it!), Totum Director Gary Jones shares his views on the recruitment market. Pleasingly, there
Totum supports SEO-London in social mobility
We are delighted to announce our collaboration with charitable organisation SEO-London to further our positive contribution to the community, and our role in promoting professional
What’s the market really like out there?
We share our experiences and insights into recruitment activity through Covid-19 and what it tells us about the future for business services teams in professional
New Skills – New Future
We are joining PM Forum who are hosting a webinar on the 14th July at 12.30pm – 1.30pm. Register. With the uncertainty of the current
Covid-19: Impact on BD & Marketing
In a piece first published in PM Forum magazine, Totum Director Rebecca Ellis reports on latest trends in recruitment, likely developments, and how BD &
Recruitment is quieter but not dead
“How is recruitment”? we get asked a lot these days. And although it is quieter because of Covid-19, it is not dead and there are
We’ve made some changes ..
We are Totum. And we’re looking a little…. Different.Why? Because the professional services industry is looking a little different too. Everyone can see where it’s
What has been happening in professional services recruitment?
Founding Directors Tim Skipper & Deborah Gray, reflect on the last 11 weeks of Covid-19 and what has been happening in the world of professional
A new look for Totum
We are Totum. And we’re looking a little…. Different. Why? Because the professional services industry is looking a little different too. Everyone can see where
BD & Marketing in a time of Covid-19: Latest insights
Totum recently hosted another virtual networking session for marketing & business development leaders. The objective, to continue to share some of the challenges presented by
Lockdown videos
During lockdown, we have seen and heard of some fantastic initiatives. Totum’s Gary Jones initiative was to put a smile on people’s faces. We think
Totum Talks: Working in the pandemic
LATEST NEWS & EVENTS Webinar: Furloughed or fearful? Join our Careers Clinic webinar for discussion and advice on managing your career in these uncertain times.
Looking for work? Tips for temporary, contract and interim roles
Job-seeking during the pandemic may feel daunting but there are opportunities. We are here to provide support, so thought it would be helpful to take
HR in a time of coronavirus – Part 4
Our highlights from our latest Zoom meeting with Heads of HR/HRDs. What does the future look like? Future focus It has been two weeks since
Finance leadership in law: A coronavirus perspective
In a piece first published in Financial Director magazine, Consultant Martyn Draper, who heads up Totum’s specialist finance and accounts division, looks at the role
5 minutes with Catherine Young
For our ‘5 minutes with …’ interview this month, we speak to Catherine Young. She has been with Totum since it started and is integral
Top tips for video interviewing
What makes for a successful video interview? We share our insights and experiences. As recruitment specialists and interviewers we know these can be difficult, so
BD & Marketing in a time of COVID-19
How is your team dealing with the coronavirus pandemic? We share highlights and ideas from our Zoom gathering of Directors and Heads of BD &
#RecruitmentLife during COVID-19
We hope you like our short films – our ways of keeping up the smiles and keeping together. Enjoy! March 2020 April 2020 Rocky :
Dealing with uncertainty: Temporary, contract and interim roles
In the weeks and months to come, we expect a rise in the number of temporary, interim and contract roles. We explore the trends and
Webinar: Furloughed or Fearful?
Join our ‘Careers Clinic’ webinar for discussion and advice on managing your career in these uncertain times. Managing uncertainty Your career is important to you
HR in a time of coronavirus
In our latest quarterly meeting of Heads of HR / HRDs, we discussed the issues facing HR teams as they support their firms through the
5 tips for starting a new job during the pandemic
Restrictions due to Coronavirus give a whole new meaning to starting a new job. Our Totum Consultant Joanna Milne provides guidance for employers and employees
5 minutes with Brooke McClure
Brooke is one of Totum’s BD & marketing consultants dedicated to recruiting entry level marketing and business development roles. Here she shares her experiences of
HR in a time of coronavirus – Part 2
Time flies during COVID-19 and, before we knew it, we were meeting up for a second Zoom meeting with Heads of HR / HRDs. Had
Future-proof your career
In a piece first published in PM Forum magazine, Consultant and Author Kim Tasso talks to Totum Consultants Rebecca Ellis and Julius Reeve about how
5 minutes with Tim Skipper
Recruitment rocks Tim Skipper, Managing Director at Totum, has partnered with law firms at a strategic leadership level to place both individuals and teams, including
My favourite clients and the secret of recruitment success
Leading the way We recruiters have the privilege of working with many different people and businesses. We go out of our way to give everyone
The role of the Head of Operations/Business Manager/Practice Manager: Impacting change
In a growing trend, we have been delighted to help more and more firms recruit Heads of Operations, Business Managers and Practice Managers into their
Working from home during Covid-19: Finding focus
In today’s workplace, most of us are familiar with working from home to some degree. But Covid-19 presents us with a whole different set of
Totum Talks: Still recruiting
Open for business Dear friends, Exactly a week ago today we temporarily closed the doors of our wonderful new office in Basinghall Street. Having only
What to do if you’re uncertain about your job during COVID-19
How you respond in times of change and uncertainty can define you. This is when your true colours are revealed – in both personal and
Leadership roles in law: Trends in Totum’s retained projects 2018
Business services professionals have taken on increasingly senior roles in law, as firms have recognised their huge contribution and their functions have grown in both
Latest research: 50:50 gender balance in Totum leadership recruitment
For some time, Totum has seen more women making headway at leadership levels in business services functions in law. But we are delighted to now
Totum Talks: Trends in leadership roles
LATEST NEWS & EVENTS Leadership roles in law: Trends in Totum’s retained projects 2018 Research into our business services leadership placements shows the rising influence
International focus part 1: Opportunities for business services professionals overseas
In a more globalised world, there are compelling reasons to consider spending at least part of your career overseas. And for business services professionals –
International focus part 2: Relocation relocation
In part 1 of this international focus we looked at some of the opportunities for business services professionals overseas – and why spending some of your
Totum Talks: International career moves
LATEST NEWS & EVENTS International focus part 1: Opportunities for business services professionals overseas If you’d like to know what it would be like to
Interview success: How to secure your dream job offer
The post-holiday September period often comes with renewed enthusiasm to begin, or step up, a new job search. It may even be that you have
5 minutes with Martyn Draper
What is your background? I have been working in recruitment since 2002. Initially I recruited technical staff into building engineering consultancies and architectural practices and
Tales from the city: How I found my job in law
What was your initial approach to finding a job in the UK after moving from the US? My initial approach was to apply directly to
Adaptive mindset: How business services professionals are changing law
New capabilities in law The Legal Business 100 always provides useful insights into the legal marketplace. Together with the publication’s Global 100, released earlier in
Totum Talks: Recruiting trends in law firm business services
LATEST NEWS & EVENTS 5 minutes with Roisin Ashmore Our HR consultant Roisin Ashmore shares her thoughts on recruitment trends in HR, as well as
Broad horizons: Looking further afield for great talent in law
In a fast-changing legal environment, law firms are more interested than ever in exploring new sources of talent from other sectors. Likewise, talented candidates are
The price is right: The growth of the legal pricing function
The growing size, influence and demand on business service professionals in corporate law firms over the past decade has resulted in a significant evolution in
Totum report: Recruiting trends in law firm business services
As specialists in business services in the legal sector, we know roles across management functions in law are on the rise. We have also seen
5 minutes with Roisin Ashmore
What is your background? Well, I was into all sorts of things when I was younger and I went to drama school. I knew that
The innovation conundrum: Interviews with Alex Smith, Reed Smith and Justin North, Janders Dean
Innovation in law may be the talk of the legal profession of late but what it really means in terms of legal service delivery is
Raconteur’s Legal Innovation report: The future of law
Predicting futures Raconteur’s special Legal Innovation report, featuring Totum, has been published today (Tuesday 27 November 2018) in The Times newspaper and The Times tablet/iPad edition. It is full
Pricing for enhanced profitability: Interview with Stuart Dodds
Pricing is a huge focus in today’s legal industry – and not surprisingly. As legal pricing expert Stuart Dodds explains in this interview with Totum
Career transitions roundtable: How L&D teams can support partner retirement
Totum Consultants Laura McNair and Roisin Ashmore, who recruit across all levels of HR roles, as well as broader positions in general management, recently hosted a breakfast
Raconteur report: A day in the life of the future lawyer
‘Being connected through the internet of things means stepping from home to car to office is a seamless data process of arranging the day’s agenda,
Project managing legal business: Interview with Kevin O’Sullivan, Baker McKenzie
Legal project management (LPM) has come a long way in a short time. Already, law firms are seeing a wide variance in the types of
Totum Talks: Pricing and the innovation conundrum
LATEST NEWS & EVENTS The innovation conundrum: Interviews with Reed Smith and Janders Dean How law firms can get to the heart of real innovation.
How to find the best business leaders in law
Talent at top Leadership roles are always tricky to recruit because organisations all need different qualities from their most senior staff. But it is arguably
The future workplace
Seminar highlights Business services roles in law have been growing in status for some time. Today’s most senior roles are truly leadership positions, with Director-level
Root and branch: Getting to the crux of real change in law
Law firms want to be their clients’ trusted advisors. But will clients spending millions in annual legal fees ever really trust a law firm whose
Totum Talks: Interviews, client relationships and the future workplace
LATEST NEWS & EVENTS Getting ready for interview If your new year resolution was to find a new job, then you might now be looking
Totum named in 2019 Timewise Power 50 awards
The Timewise Power 50 We are delighted to announce that one of our Founding Directors Deborah Gray has been recognised in the latest Timewise Power
5 minutes with Dee Deol
Tell us something people might not know about you? Too many to record here! Apart from wearing bear costumes when walking the recent 15-mile Marsden
