James Goodnow
About James Goodnow
James Goodnow serves as the CEO of Fennemore, a prominent Am Law 200 law firm, where he has worked since 2000. He has significantly contributed to the firm's growth and success through innovative programs and strategic leadership.
Work at Fennemore
James Goodnow has served as the CEO of Fennemore since 2000. Under his leadership, the firm has expanded significantly, adding nine new offices and doubling its headcount. Fennemore operates as an Am Law 200 law firm with over 500 legal professionals across 15 U.S. offices. Goodnow has implemented new data analytics and profitability tools, contributing to the firm's operational efficiency. He has also launched successful Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, enhancing the firm's workplace culture.
Education and Expertise
James Goodnow holds a Master's Degree from the University of Cambridge, where he studied Entrepreneurship at the Cambridge Judge Business School. He also studied as an MBA candidate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and obtained dual certificates from MIT management programs. Goodnow earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Harvard Law School, completing his studies from 2003 to 2006. Additionally, he graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from Santa Clara University.
Background
James Goodnow began his career at Fennemore as a file clerk at the age of 18. His early experience in the firm provided him with a solid foundation in the legal industry. He has progressed through various roles over the years, ultimately becoming CEO. Goodnow completed his high school education at Brophy College Preparatory, graduating in 1999.
Achievements
Under James Goodnow's leadership, Fennemore was recognized as the #1 fastest-growing law firm in the U.S. by Law.com in 2021. He has achieved record shareholder profit multiple times and implemented industry-leading retention statistics for attorneys, reaching a retention rate of 91.6%, significantly higher than the industry average of 81.5%. Goodnow has also contributed to high job satisfaction rates within the firm, achieving a rate of 96% compared to the industry average of roughly 60%.