New York Office Managing Partner Krishnan Padmanabhan Featured in ALM’s “How I Made It” Series

Krishnan Padmanabhan was recently featured in ALM’s “How I Made It” series, where he shared his perspective as New York office managing partner. In the interview, he reflected on his career path, the role of technology in driving client service, the advice he would give his younger self, and the impact he hopes to have on the firm.

On stepping into leadership, KP explained, “I did not set out a road map to become managing partner, but I have always been curious about how things work and how they can be improved. That might be a product of my background in engineering. And when I brought that same lens to the business of law, I realized that there are so many ways we can improve client service and drive better results for our clients. I think that mindset created space for leadership opportunities.”

Technology, he emphasized, plays a central role in that approach. As he noted, “we use technology to enhance workflows, improve accuracy, and increase efficiency—allowing us to deliver deeper insights and better results for clients.”

When asked what advice he would give to his younger self, KP stressed the importance of staying grounded and authentic. “Make time to stay interesting. It’s easy to let the demands of the profession take over, but the hobbies and passions that make you who you are—those matter. It’s not just about work-life balance, it’s about authenticity. Authenticity is one of the most powerful traits a lawyer and a leader can have. Clients and colleagues can tell when you're genuine and you’re able to connect more deeply. I would also remind myself to thank my wife at every opportunity. This is a time-consuming, and often an all-consuming, career. Having a supportive partner is an incredible asset, and one that should not be taken for granted. My wife keeps me sane and always provides a healthy dose of perspective.”

Looking ahead, KP described his vision for Winston’s New York office and his goal to cultivate an environment where every attorney and staff member can work to deliver legal excellence on behalf of clients and continuously grow in their careers. “I want our office to be a place where people feel empowered, supported, and motivated to reach their full potential. On a broader scale, I want to help cement Winston’s place in the New York market. Building on the strong foundation laid by my predecessors, I’m focused on continuing that momentum—growing our New York office strategically so that we stand shoulder to shoulder with the top firms in Manhattan. Ultimately, I want our impact to be felt not just in the results we deliver, but in the culture we create—a culture that attracts top talent, inspires excellence, and sets a standard in the legal industry.”

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