Liz Fries wears many hats at Sidley: Managing Partner of the Boston office, Global Practice Leader of the firm’s market-leading Investment Funds practice, and a member of the Executive Committee. But even with these leadership roles, she continues to maintain a thriving practice of her own. Under her guidance, Sidley’s Boston office has not only grown strategically but also preserved its close-knit, collaborative culture while expanding its reach in key sectors like life sciences, venture capital, and private equity.
In this interview, Fries opens up about her philosophy on leadership, the forces driving Sidley’s momentum, and why a strong culture remains at the heart of the firm’s success.
You hold three management roles at Sidley – Boston office Managing Partner, Global Practice Leader of the firm’s market-leading Investment Funds practice, and a member of the Executive Committee – plus a busy practice of your own. What’s the secret to juggling all of these responsibilities?
All my roles have the same underlying goals: serving clients, supporting colleagues, and advancing Sidley’s mission. I’m able to manage everything thanks to a strong foundation of people and process. I surround myself with talented, collaborative teams that I trust and with whom I communicate transparently. That allows us to move quickly and make decisions with clarity. I also try to be intentional about staying grounded — whether that means being present in a one-on-one mentoring session or taking time to reflect on long-term strategy.
Endurance plays a role, too. Leadership often demands navigating complex situations under pressure, and that requires resilience. But I’ve learned that consistency and authenticity matter more than perfection. I don’t aspire to “do it all” — I aim to do what matters most, with integrity and care.
During your tenure as Sidley’s office managing partner in Boston, what specific accomplishments or initiatives are you most proud of, and how have they contributed to the growth, culture, or reputation of the office?
I’m most proud of how we’ve thoughtfully scaled the Boston office while preserving our distinctive culture. During my time as OMP, we’ve welcomed an impressive cohort of partners and associates and strategically expanded our capabilities in industry sectors such as ECVC, life sciences, and private equity.
But growth is just one part of the story. Equally important is the culture we’ve built: one that values collaboration, purpose, and belonging. We’ve invested in both people and infrastructure — expanding operational support, enhancing recruiting, and even growing our physical space to support what our team needs to serve our clients efficiently and with excellence.
Our success has been, and continues to be, driven by a shared vision and deep commitment to each other and to our clients. This not only makes us more competitive in the market but also more connected as a team.
Sidley has hired nearly 50 lateral partners this year, including five in Boston. Can you tell us what is driving the growth in Boston and beyond?
Our growth is the result of strategic decision-making and cultural alignment. Lateral partners are drawn to Sidley for the strength of our platform and because they see our firm as a place where they can lead, thrive, and contribute meaningfully.
In Boston, we’ve focused on building practices that reflect the region’s innovation and investment economy. Our hires are highly intentional — lawyers who complement our strengths and share our values. Laterals are attracted to our local office because we offer the best of both worlds — the global reach and resources of a leading AmLaw 10 firm along with a supportive local environment.
Firmwide, it’s a similar story. Growth is not a numbers game — it’s a reflection of trust, momentum, and shared vision. We’re building something enduring, and people want to be a part of that.
What do you think sets Sidley apart and makes it a place where top legal talent wants to build their careers?
Three things stand out: quality, client service, and culture — and it’s the powerful combination of all three that truly sets Sidley apart.
First, the caliber of the legal talent at Sidley is exceptional. I’ve worked with many outstanding lawyers over the course of my career, but I was genuinely struck — even surprised — by the depth of expertise and sophistication here, both globally and locally. Our teams are trusted advisors on the most complex, high stakes matters across industries and borders. That level of quality isn’t just about intellect or credentials — it’s about judgment, strategic execution at the highest level, and results.
Second, our unwavering commitment to client service is embedded in everything we do. It’s not just about solving problems — it’s about anticipating them, aligning with our clients’ business goals, and delivering with consistency, responsiveness, and thoughtfulness. We’re deeply invested in our clients’ success, and that client-first mindset runs firm-wide, from senior partners to new associates.
But what truly differentiates Sidley is the culture of collegiality and collaboration. No matter how accomplished or busy someone may be, the default mode here is helpful, responsive, and team oriented. There’s a humility and mutual respect that permeates the firm — and that makes it not only a more enjoyable place to work, but also a better platform for delivering seamless, integrated service to our clients.
How would you describe your strategic priorities for the Boston office, both in the immediate future and over the long term?
Our priorities center on sustained, values-driven growth. In the short term, we’re continuing to expand our capabilities in sectors where client demand is strong — including venture capital, life sciences, private equity, and financial services. We’ve welcomed several dynamic lateral partners who bring both expertise and energy to the table.
Long term, we’re focused on maintaining agility in a changing market while doubling down on what makes this office special: a cohesive, high-integrity culture and a sharp client focus. We’re committed to being both market-leading and human-centered — a place where exceptional work and deep connection go together.
Our vision is not just to grow, but to grow with intention — always guided by the values that make Sidley and our Boston office distinct.
How have client priorities and needs changed since you first started practicing law, and how have these changes influenced the way you approach client service and legal practice today?
Clients today want more than technical answers — they want strategic, forward-thinking partners. The legal landscape has grown more complex, and clients increasingly expect counsel who understand their industry, anticipate risks, and add business value.
I work to stay ahead of trends, integrate technology smartly, and tailor solutions that are both innovative and pragmatic. Tools like generative AI are transforming how we work — streamlining processes and freeing up time for higher-value insight.
But technology is just a tool. What matters most is judgment, insight, and trust. I strive to bring these qualities to every client relationship — delivering not just answers, but guidance that helps them succeed in a rapidly changing world.
What unique qualities or opportunities does Boston offer that make it an exceptional environment for practicing law, and how have these factors influenced your own legal career or practice?
Boston offers a truly unique environment for practicing law. The city’s vibrant business community, world-class academic institutions, and leadership in industries like life sciences, healthcare, finance, and technology create a dynamic backdrop for sophisticated legal work. What sets Boston apart is not just the innovation, but the strength and collegiality of its legal community — deeply rooted, collaborative, and highly engaged.
I have spent my entire career practicing in Boston, which has given me the opportunity to work on cutting-edge matters while building meaningful, long-term relationships with clients and colleagues. The city’s spirit of innovation and connection continues to inspire me and is a driving force behind the growth and success of our office.
Your attorneys have played a key role in the BBA’s Business Transactions, Financial Services, and White-Collar Crime programming. In what ways does this kind of involvement align with your firm’s strategic goals or contribute to attorney growth and development?
Our engagement with the Boston Bar Association underpins our commitment to leadership and community. By participating in BBA programming, our attorneys stay ahead of legal developments, build cross-sector networks, and hone skills that extend beyond the courtroom or deal table.
These opportunities support individual growth and firm strategy alike. They deepen our local roots, elevate our visibility, and reinforce our belief that great lawyers are also great citizens. Whether through public speaking, moderating panels, or mentoring, BBA involvement amplifies the kind of multidimensional growth we encourage at Sidley.
Having served on both the BBA Council and Executive Committee, how do you view the BBA’s role in shaping the legal profession amid ongoing changes and challenges in the industry?
The BBA is an essential force in shaping the future of our profession. With changes occurring at a breakneck pace — from digital evolution to shifting expectations around equity and access — the BBA provides a vital forum for critical engagement and collective progress.
My experience on the Council and Executive Committee showed me how powerful that community can be particularly as the in-house legal community has become more engaged. The BBA brings together diverse voices to advance the rule of law, promote inclusion, and nurture the next generation of legal leaders. It connects us not just as professionals, but as stewards of a shared civic mission.
That mission is more relevant than ever. And I’m proud to be a part of it.
