Empowering the next gen of lawyers with the LOD Mentoring Programme

Some of in-house legal's biggest challenges aren't always found in the law. Even highly effective lawyers experience moments of uncertainty, especially early in their careers.

These challenges can feel even more daunting when combined with high-pressure demands like exams. Having the right support network and the chance to connect with others who truly understand the experience can make all the difference. It's something many lawyers clearly value too. In our most recent LOD Listening Survey, 52% of respondents said that opportunities to connect with other LOD lawyers is important.

Mentoring is one way to build those connections, helping turn uncertainty into clarity, provide guidance, perspective, and shared experience. Sindy Suntharesh, LOD People & Development Manager, heads up the LOD Mentoring Programme. She shares: "Our programme is designed with a simple, but powerful, goal: to create a supportive and trusted environment where experienced lawyers can share their knowledge and insights with those who are newer to the profession."

Over a period of 6 months, thoughtfully matched mentors and mentees have connected to talk openly about everything from stakeholder management, exams and career progression to confidence, boundaries and burnout.

The difference mentoring can make

The LOD Mentoring Programme bridges the gap between uncertainty and confidence. Looking at the data from our end-of-programme survey, 86% of our mentees said the programme made them feel even more confident in their role. Many also spoke about gaining clearer direction in their careers. One mentee shared, "I've been able to connect my personal interests and skills with specific areas of law." Another had a similar experience having gained clarity on their journey to becoming a solicitor beyond academics.

When mentors help mentees navigate challenges and key career moments, they strengthen their own confidence too. One mentor reflected, "As a freelance lawyer, we often miss opportunities to lead teams or manage people, but mentoring has filled that gap and helped me strengthen those skills. Another shared how it gave them the opportunity to reflect on their own career and progression. For one mentor the experience was "very affirming" to see how well adjusted and capable the next generation are.

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A shared experience: Anna and Samantha's story

When Anna, an LOD Trainee, joined her first mentoring session with Samantha, she was deep in SQE preparation and navigating uncertainty about her next career step.

"Samantha has helped me keep perspective during a very intense time with my SQE exams. Her friendly and reassuring approach has made me feel that I have someone in my corner, which has been incredibly valuable while balancing study and work," Anna said.

Samantha is an experienced triple-qualified commercial lawyer, with 5 years as an LOD legal professional. For Samantha, the experience was equally worthwhile, "I have found it rewarding to be part of the programme. The pairing was thoughtfully handpicked, and Anna and I, both having cross-country educational journeys, connected quickly. The mentor training provided before the programme's commencement, as well as the networking opportunities during and after, were also valuable and made the overall experience positive and enriching."

Both spoke of a mentoring relationship that was supportive and encouraging, grounded in mutual respect and genuinely beneficial.

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Why mentoring is key for future in-house legal leaders

Today's legal careers are less linear and increasingly shaped by influence, visibility, and adaptability - not just technical abilitiy. Mentoring gives access to insight that can't be found in job descriptions or training manuals; how to navigate in-house dynamics, build credibility early, and make informed career decisions are all important pieces of the puzzle.

But it's not just about strategy. Mentoring also creates connection in a profession that can sometimes feel isolating. For future-ready lawyers, having someone to guide, challenge, and support them can make all the difference.

"The programme reflects the culture we continue to build here at LOD - one where our lawyers are supported, challenged, and encouraged to grow. It's a powerful way to inspire confidence, connections and perspectives at pivotal moments in a lawyer's career and it reflects our belief that developing future in-house leaders means supporting the whole person, not just their technical expertise," Grace Strutton, LOD's Director, People & Development.

Mentorship isn't just guidance, it's growth

By creating space for trust, guidance, and shared growth, we help strong lawyers grow stronger - shaping a future where they can thrive with clarity, confidence, and connection.

If you're interested in becoming an LOD Trainee, you can get more information here.

Want to join the LOD lawyer community? Find out how here.