James Goodnow

Bio:

James Goodnow is the CEO and Managing Partner of Fennemore. He started at the firm nearly two decades ago as a file clerk and worked his way up to become the youngest known chief executive of a major U.S. law firm.

He holds a JD from Harvard Law School, dual management certificates from MIT, and a master’s degree in entrepreneurship from the University of Cambridge Business School in the U.K. Before Cambridge, he was an enrolled MBA student at MIT. He also earned a BS from Santa Clara University, graduating first in his class.

As CEO, James has focused on positioning Fennemore for long-term success. He’s helped lead M&A deals that opened nine new offices across the U.S., expanding the firm’s reach for its business clients. Under his leadership, Fennemore was ranked the #1 firm in the U.S. for year-over-year revenue growth in the 2023 American Lawyer Am Law 200 rankings (45.6%).

He’s worked with his team to roll out cutting-edge technology and data tools, giving clients a competitive edge. James has also chaired the firm’s diversity and inclusion council, launched impactful new programs, and built a culture that puts people first — a big reason why the firm has industry-leading retention and job satisfaction.

James is a recognized voice at the intersection of law and business. He’s been on the cover of The American Lawyer, profiled by Apple in a global “Apple in Business” campaign, and named one of “America’s Techiest Lawyers” by ABA Journal. He writes for Forbes and pens a leadership and innovation column for Above the Law.

He co-authored Motivating Millennials: How to Recognize, Recruit and Retain the Next Generation of Leaders, which debuted at #1 on Amazon in the business management new release category. A lifelong learner, he’s passionate about personal growth and reading — you can check out his top 10 book recommendations.

James chairs the board of the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona and serves on the board for Make-A-Wish® Arizona. He’s married to his high school sweetheart and is the proud father of two.

Outside the office, you’ll find him cycling, hiking, or golfing with his family. He also enjoys wine for its mix of culture, history, science, and connection — and he’s a Level I sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers.