Greg Lambert sits down with Elizabeth Elmendorf, Practice Group Director at Faegre Drinker and Co-Chair of LVN’s Education Committee. With a background in finance and business management, Elizabeth has forged an unconventional path into practice group leadership, redefining how law firms leverage data and collaboration to drive performance. In this conversation, she shares her pivot from aspiring attorney to Practice Group Director, explores the data‑driven and technology‑fueled shifts transforming legal practice management, and highlights the power of knowledge sharing within the LVN community. Tune in for her candid insights on navigating change and driving results in legal operations.
Greg Lambert: Hey everyone, I’m Greg Lambert, the editor for the LVN newsletter, and this month our member spotlight is on Elizabeth Elmendorf, Practice Group Director at Faegre Drinker and Co‑Chair of LVN’s Education Committee. Elizabeth, thank you for letting us shine the spotlight on you.
Elizabeth Elmendorf: Of course—thank you for having me, Greg.
Greg Lambert: Tell us about your professional journey. No one plans to become a Practice Group Director—what was yours like?
Elizabeth Elmendorf: I actually started out thinking I’d be an attorney. During undergrad I interned at a law firm and discovered I loved the business side of the practice. After graduation I joined that firm’s finance department, then moved into business management (now called pricing). Over seven years the role expanded organically, and while it wasn’t my original goal, it’s been a perfect fit.
Greg Lambert: You probably spared yourself the headache (and expense) of law school, right?
Elizabeth Elmendorf: Exactly.
Greg Lambert: How did you first get involved with LVN?
Elizabeth Elmendorf: A client at my previous firm—one of LVN’s founders—mentioned the organization and introduced me. I plugged in right away and saw its value.
Greg Lambert: What motivated you to step into the co‑chair role on the Education Committee?
Elizabeth Elmendorf: LVN’s greatest asset is knowledge sharing. We all face similar challenges in our roles, so having a forum to swap best practices and tools benefits everyone—from junior team members to firm leaders. After serving a year on the committee, co‑chair was a clear next step.
Greg Lambert: What shifts have you observed in legal practice management over the past few years?
Elizabeth Elmendorf: The move to data‑driven decision‑making has been transformative. Profitability used to be a taboo topic; now it’s central to firm strategy. Attorneys are increasingly treating law firms like businesses—and practice management professionals are driving that change.
Greg Lambert: And how are firms preparing for the wave of technology and AI?
Elizabeth Elmendorf: It can be overwhelming given the options. At Faegre Drinker, our Innovation Officer evaluates and integrates technology solutions that align with firm goals, ensuring systems communicate seamlessly. Encouraging attorneys—especially newer associates—to learn and adopt these tools is crucial.
Greg Lambert: How do you balance your leadership responsibilities with life outside work?
Elizabeth Elmendorf: Some days are hectic, but creativity often strikes away from my desk—during a morning run or while skiing, which I love. Prioritizing activities that bring joy helps me stay energized, even when the work never truly stops.
Greg Lambert: Finally, what advice would you give someone looking to get more involved with LVN?
Elizabeth Elmendorf: Join an existing committee and volunteer for tasks—there’s plenty to do, and showing eagerness goes a long way. And attend LVNX: building relationships in person is how I first connected with this community.
Greg Lambert: Elizabeth Elmendorf, Practice Group Director at Faegre Drinker and Co‑Chair of LVN’s Education Committee—thank you for joining us today.
Elizabeth Elmendorf: Thank you, Greg. It’s been a pleasure.