David Quli’s path to Managing Partner has been anything but predictable. After 19 years at Wiggin, he shares the philosophy that’s guided him: follow what interests you, build genuine relationships, and seize opportunity when it arrives.
Episode Summary
David reflects on his journey from trainee to leading one of the UK’s most distinctive specialist firms, alongside its Senior Partner. He discusses the reality of stepping into the Managing Partner role during a period of industry change, the adjustment from transactional work with clear milestones to more unpredictable demands, and why accepting what you can’t control has been a key leadership lesson.
The conversation covers Wiggin’s recent high-profile work – including The Guardian’s landmark long-running libel trial – and the firm’s growth strategy across corporate, litigation and sports. David shares how Wiggin’s entrepreneurial culture led to the development of a brand protection business built by a partner, which gained private equity backing and was ultimately sold, and explains how that spirit continues.
Key Takeaways
Relationships are everything. Build networks early and nurture them connections made as a junior still matter decades later.
Follow your interests, and opportunities as they arise. David moved into film finance because it genuinely interested him. The opportunities followed.
Leadership means accepting uncertainty. Unlike transactions with clear endpoints, firm leadership doesn’t always offer such distinct milestones.
Culture retains people. Events like Wigstock, the firm’s bi-annual festival, and Wiggin’s Charitable Foundation aren’t extras they are key to what makes Wiggin different.
About the Guest
David Quli is Managing Partner of Wiggin LLP, the specialist media, entertainment, technology and IP firm. He took up the role in October 2024 after 18 years at the firm, most recently as Head of Film & Television. David is recognised as one of the UK’s foremost media finance lawyers, listed in the Legal 500 Hall of Fame and ranked Band 1 by Chambers.
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