Akerman LLP: Trailblazing the Legal Landscape with Passion and Purpose

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In a world where the legal profession demands more than just legal expertise, Iris Jones stands out as a beacon of innovation and client-centric leadership. As the Chief Marketing & Client Development Officer at Akerman LLP, Iris has carved a path that seamlessly blends her love for the law with her unwavering dedication to serving clients.

Iris’s journey began with a childhood dream inspired by the iconic Perry Mason television show, which ignited her passion for justice and the legal system. Years later, a chance encounter with a magazine article about the late Congresswoman Barbara Jordan further fueled her ambition. 

Iris was captivated by Jordan’s historic appointment as Governor of Texas for a day in 1972, making her the first African American and the first woman to hold the office. This pivotal moment solidified Iris’s determination to pursue her legal education, despite facing skepticism from others.

Her career has been marked by significant milestones, including serving as an Assistant Attorney General of Texas, where she participated in landmark cases such as the Vietnamese Fisherman’s Case against the KKK. These experiences have shaped Iris into a leader who values justice, integrity, and client service above all else.

At Akerman LLP, Iris employs her extensive experience to lead marketing and client development initiatives, shaping the firm’s market presence and attracting new clients. By leading a team of skilled professionals, Iris ensures that marketing strategies align seamlessly with the firm’s goals, fostering a culture of empowerment and innovation.

A Childhood Dream Ignites

Iris’s passion for law sparked at an early age, fueled by her fascination with the TV show Perry Mason. Even as a fifth-grader, she admired the show’s protagonist, who stood firmly for justice and truth, shaping her ambition to become a lawyer. Despite skepticism from teachers and peers, Iris was unwavering in her pursuit, inspired by the episodes that painted a clear vision of her future.

A pivotal moment in Iris’s journey occurred in sixth grade when she received a response from Harvard University to her inquiries about pursuing a law degree. As a young girl from Ohio, one of nine siblings, Iris was thirsty for knowledge. The package from Harvard, complete with a coursework catalog and personalized advice, was a beacon of hope and direction. This experience highlighted the transformative power of encouragement and kindness, leaving an indelible mark on her path.

Pioneering in Law

After earning her law degree, Iris’s career took flight with a significant role as an Assistant Attorney General (AG) of Texas, where she served for eight years. This position, a dream come true, allowed her to practice law, defend the state, and engage in legal battles in both state and federal courts. One of the defining moments of her career came in 1982, when she represented the AG’s office in the Vietnamese Fisherman’s case against the Ku Klux Klan. 

Working alongside prominent figures like Morris Dees and David Berg, Iris faced the daunting task of deposing 12 Klansmen. This experience reinforced her understanding of the legal profession’s demands, requiring her to put aside personal biases to represent her clients with honor and integrity.

Her journey continued as she broke new ground, becoming the first female and African American City Attorney for Austin. Among her many achievements, defending the city in Federal Court during a Voting Rights Act case before the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals stands out as a career highlight. Each role and challenge she embraced molded her into the accomplished professional she is today.

Prioritizing Family and Faith

Iris’s personal life has been as fulfilling as her professional journey. Her daughter Amanda, born in 1979, is her most cherished gift. Iris’s commitment to her family is profound, placing them second only to her faith in God, with her career following. 

This order of priorities, she believes, ensures everything falls into place. For Iris, success is not just about professional achievements but also about nurturing relationships with loved ones, making a difference in their lives, and leaving a legacy of love and support.

Leading with Purpose

Iris plays a critical role in steering the firm’s strategic direction. She leads a team of skilled professionals dedicated to enhancing Akerman’s brand, attracting new clients, and expanding its market presence. 

Working closely with the firm’s leadership and attorneys, Iris develops and implements marketing strategies, manages client relationships, and ensures the firm’s continued growth and success.

Iris’s approach is hands-on; she shares her wealth of experience, guiding her team to excel. By imparting wisdom from her career and encouraging innovative thinking, she fosters an environment where her team members feel empowered and valued. Iris believes in the importance of trust and collaboration, knowing that when her team is supported and inspired, they are capable of achieving remarkable results.

Training, Support, and Leadership

Under Iris’s leadership, her team is committed to continuous improvement and excellence. They offer regular training sessions, share insights, and provide the tools necessary for Akerman’s attorneys to thrive. By staying updated on the latest trends and technologies, Iris ensures her team is well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of the firm and its clients.

Iris is a firm believer in the power of listening and adapting to the unique needs of each client. This approach aligns with the “Platinum Rule,” which emphasizes treating others as they wish to be treated. By understanding and responding to clients’ needs, Iris and her team build strong, lasting relationships that drive the firm’s success.

Collaboration and Innovation

Iris’s leadership style is characterized by a deep commitment to trust, transparency, and collaboration. She encourages her team to take initiative, think creatively, and challenge the status quo. By sharing leadership responsibilities and providing opportunities for professional growth, Iris helps cultivate future leaders within the firm.

Her dedication to Akerman extends beyond her immediate team. Iris is actively involved in firm-wide initiatives, contributing to the development of business plans that align with the firm’s strategic goals. She advocates for a culture of high trust and mutual respect, believing that when people feel valued and empowered, they are more likely to stay and contribute positively to the firm’s success.

Relevance in a Dynamic Landscape

Iris understands that staying relevant is crucial for law firms. With technological advances and the rise of Alternative Legal Services Providers, the legal industry is constantly evolving. Iris emphasizes the need for continuous adaptation, innovation, and proactive client engagement to maintain a competitive edge.

Her strategic vision focuses on leveraging new technologies, enhancing client relationships, and exploring new business opportunities. By staying ahead of industry trends and anticipating client needs, Iris ensures that Akerman remains a leader in the legal field, delivering exceptional service and value to its clients.

A Legacy of Service

Throughout her career, Iris has been driven by a passion for service and a commitment to making a difference. Her role at Akerman allows her to channel this passion into meaningful work, guiding her team to deliver outstanding client service and support. By fostering a culture of care, empathy, and excellence, Iris helps create an environment where both clients and colleagues thrive.

Iris’s dedication extends beyond the office. She believes in the importance of giving back to the community and making a positive impact in the lives of others. Whether through her professional work or personal endeavors, Iris remains committed to her core values of integrity, compassion, and service, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations to follow.