From Lawyer to CMS Managing Partner: Adrian Bell on Leadership, AI & the Future of Law | S10E44

“There’s a very different skill set in leading people remotely.”  - Adrian Bell

On today’s Legally Speaking Podcast, sponsored by Clio, I’m delighted to be joined by Adrian Bell. Adrian joined CMS in 2002, building a career spanning international disputes, business development and law firm leadership. Before becoming Managing Partner, he was Co-Head of CMS’s Infrastructure, Construction and Energy Disputes Group and Managing Director for Asia and the Middle East.

During his leadership of the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions, CMS expanded its international presence, opening offices in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. In April 2026, Adrian began his 4-year term as Managing Partner at CMS, overseeing the UK, Middle East, Asia, Central Europe and Eastern Europe. Today, we will explore Adrian’s journey from practising lawyer to Managing Partner, leading an international law firm, the challenges of balancing commercial success, and his vision for the future of CMS. 

So why should you be listening in? 

You can hear Rob and Adrian discussing:

- From Lawyer To Managing Partner: Adrian Bell’s Journey Leading CMS

- The Business Of Law: Driving Growth and Building Client Relationships

- Leading Through People: Attracting Talent and Building Strong Teams

- The Future of Law: Embracing AI, Technology and Innovation

- Building a Legacy: Leadership, Confidence and Learning From Failure.

Connect with Adrian Bell here - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/adrianjamesbell