Kindleworth expands operations with New York office

London-based consultancy Kindleworth has officially opened its New York office, a strategic move to address the burgeoning demand for its services among lawyers looking to establish their own firms in the competitive US market. This expansion follows a proven track record, having supported over 50 law firm launches globally, and now aims to attract more entrepreneurial partners from large law firms eager to unlock their potential.

Maryana Kodner has been appointed as Partner and Head of US Operations to spearhead this new office. With a career that includes leading boutique law firms in New York, she offers extensive experience across various operational aspects. She began her legal journey at Clifford Chance’s New York office as a litigator and subsequently transitioned into leadership roles, focusing on finance, technology, and HR. Maryana expressed her enthusiasm for joining Kindleworth, stating, “I have seen first-hand the opportunities created when talented lawyers choose to build something of their own. Kindleworth has established itself as the partner of choice for many of the market’s most entrepreneurial founding teams and the firm’s mission of enabling lawyers to launch and grow successful independent practices is one I am deeply passionate about.”

Alongside her, Anand David has been brought on board as a Strategic Advisor. With a rich background leading partner recruitment globally at firms like Hogan Lovells and Morrison Foerster, Anand lends his expertise to aid Kindleworth in capitalising on the current trend of US partners forming new firms. He remarked, “More US partners than ever are choosing to build their own firms. I’m delighted to be working with Kindleworth during this exciting next chapter, as they support leading founder partners make the move.”

The New York office's launch signifies a pivotal stage in Kindleworth’s ambition to empower lawyers to build the specialist law firms of the future. James Hacking, CEO of Kindleworth, acknowledged the transformative changes occurring within the legal industry. “Over the past decade we've had a front-row seat to one of the most significant shifts in the legal industry, as leading partners choose to build focused, entrepreneurial firms rather than remain within traditional structures,” he said. Hacking also indicated that the increasing autonomy sought by partners has prompted the firm to extend its footprint into New York.

The decision to expand into the US stems from the heightened mobility of talent within the legal sector, coupled with significant financial incentives for star partners leaving large firms. Kindleworth aims to guide these partners in launching and growing successful new practices. Notably, the firm's strategic partnership with Burford Capital announced in 2025 reinforces its capabilities by merging financial resources with legal operational expertise.

In conclusion, Kindleworth's New York office will serve as a vital resource for ambitious lawyers ready to disrupt conventional law firm models, helping them design, launch, and manage their new ventures effectively. With a dedicated team of professionals at its helm, Kindleworth is well-positioned to support the next wave of elite specialist law firm formations