Employee Spotlight

Nirali Patel, Associate Director of IT Portfolio Management

Perspectives

The people at Kirkland are curious, the work is fun and challenging, and there’s always room to make a mark.”
Nirali Patel Environmental

Nirali Patel’s role as an associate director of IT portfolio management is far from one-dimensional. “Most people assume a role like mine is about keeping projects on track and reporting status,” she said. “And while that’s part of it, it’s a much more strategic seat than people expect — understanding how every initiative fits together, where resources are being invested and how it all connects to what the Firm is trying to accomplish.”

How would you describe Kirkland’s culture?

It’s a fast-paced environment, but there’s purpose behind it. The legal industry is evolving, and Kirkland has made a deliberate choice to stay ahead of that curve. People are curious, willing to try new approaches and not precious about the way things have always been done. Whether that’s investing in AI tools, building capabilities in-house or finding ways to automate routine work, there’s a genuine openness to asking, “Is there a better way to do this?”

What stands out about Kirkland’s business services professionals?

The backgrounds people bring are eclectic. I came from the supply chain, beauty retailing and consumer goods industries before landing here, and that kind of winding path is more the norm than the exception. Very few people on the team joined with deep legal industry experience, and that’s a strength. Outside perspectives shape how we think about problems, and the conversations are richer for it.

How has your role had an effect on the Firm’s success?

I help bring clarity to how technology and innovation work gets done, from how ideas move through intake to how projects get prioritized and delivered across teams. When that works well, the Firm can move with more confidence and less friction.

How would you describe the team culture at Kirkland?

A part of my role I find meaningful is developing the people around me. Helping someone grow not just on their project but as a leader within the Firm is impact that compounds. I try to create an environment where people feel equipped to make decisions, not just execute tasks. That team-focused mindset is a hallmark of Kirkland.

What would you tell others considering a job at Kirkland?

My honest answer is, why wouldn’t you? Kirkland is the #1 law firm in the world, and that reputation exists because of the people and the work. The people are curious, the work is fun and challenging, and there’s always room to make a mark.

What you might not expect is how accessible and collaborative it feels from the inside. It’s not an intimidating place. You just have to come ready to contribute and you’ll find Kirkland is a place that gives back just as much as you put in.

Interview conducted in May 2026

Chicago Hub Space

The Firm has IT and project management teams across our offices, including our Chicago office pictured above, where Nirali sits.

JOIN OUR TEAM