Howard Rosenberg Interviews Elliot Moss, Partner and Chief Brand Officer, Mishcon de Reya

In this episode of The Future Is Bright podcast, Howard Rosenberg, head of Talent Intelligence + Acquisitions at Baretz+Brunelle, and his co-host Chris Batz welcome Elliot Moss, partner and chief brand officer of Mishcon de Reya, a top 30 UK law firm known for its litigation-led approach and progressive values. Elliot brings a unique perspective to the legal world, shaped by his early career in advertising at Leo Burnett and his journey into law firm leadership through a non-lawyer ownership path under the UK’s Legal Services Act.

Elliot discusses how his background in brand and communications has helped Mishcon de Reya shift market perceptions, grow revenue, and position itself as a business-focused firm with a distinctive culture. He shares his experience driving internal change, building client relationships, and navigating the complexities of AI, external capital, and global growth—all while staying grounded in a belief in the rule of law and the power of ideas.

Episode Highlights

• Clarifying Differentiation in a Sea of Sameness
  Elliot describes how most law firms struggle with generic positioning and language. At Mishcon, the journey toward meaningful differentiation began with an honest assessment of the firm’s values, internal culture, and client needs—leading to the articulation of its defining ethos: “It’s business. But it’s personal.”

• Changing Market Perception through Repetition and Clarity
  To reposition Mishcon as a firm for the world of business, Elliot explains the deliberate use of media channels like the Financial Times, consistent messaging, and annual brand tracking. He shares how the firm moved from 8% to 74% recognition among FTSE 250 clients over eight years.
  
  
• The Power of Emotional Connection in Legal Services
  While many lawyers focus on technical excellence, Elliot argues that clients often buy based on emotional security and perception. He shares how Mishcon’s messaging speaks to the emotional driver of tenacity—a quality every client wants in their lawyer.
  
  
• Implementing Change in a Partnership-Driven Environment
  Elliot outlines his approach to change management within a law firm: start small, show results, and let internal demand grow organically. He emphasizes patience, repetition, and the power of influence over enforcement.
  
  
• Capital, AI, and Existential Questions for Law Firms
  From IPO preparation to ongoing conversations around private equity, Elliot explains how Mishcon is thinking about capitalization, technology, and long-term strategy. He cautions that under-capitalization and complacency pose serious risks amid AI’s rapid evolution.

VIEW ALL EPISODES OF THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT PODCAST

About the Podcast:
On The Future Is Bright, Howard Rosenberg and Chris Batz engage with thought-provoking C-suite executives and leaders from corporations, professional service firms, and the global legal industry. Each episode uncovers insights on leadership, innovation, and the evolving dynamics of the modern professional landscape.

You can subscribe to The Future is Bright Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and PodBean.