Steve Burke
Associate Director of Business Development
Proskauer Rose, LLP
How did you get into Legal Marketing?
I was a practicing attorney in a prior life but made a career decision to change paths and to go into sports marketing. I worked in sports with mostly nonprofits for about 12 years. But as my family started to grow, I realized that I needed to get back in the for-profit sector, so I married my legal background with the marketing skills I developed in the sports industry. I was offered my first legal marketing job by Jim Durham at Ropes & Gray, who is a pioneer in the industry so I jumped at the opportunity.
What did you enjoy most about being a member of the New England Board in 2014?
I enjoyed seeing firsthand how truly dedicated the New England Chapter board is to making sure the chapter is delivering on all fronts, how smart everyone was and their openness to new ideas. It was also great getting to know the board members on a more personal level. Just like our jobs within our firms, the better you know someone on a personal level, the better able you are to work with them professionally.
What advice would you give to someone just starting their career?
Meet as many people as you can, both with peer legal marketers at other firms as well as other BD/Marketing staff and attorneys at your firm. Go to LMA events (social and educational), keep expanding your network, try to get more engaged through volunteering on a committee, and just generally be open to new ideas. It has really been very helpful in my career knowing others in the industry. At your firm, attend as many firm events as you can, and take advantage of opportunities to get to know people outside of your practice areas.
If you weren’t in Legal Marketing, what would you be doing instead?
I would probably be doing something sports related such as running a hockey ream or be actively involved in the Boston Olympics 2024 bid.
What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?
I’m a grandfather! I have a two and a half year old grandson and another on the way.
What is your favorite travel destination and why?
Switzerland because of its incredible natural beauty – blue blue lakes, lush greenery, snowcapped mountains, clean air, and everything runs on time. Also great beer and chocolate in that part of the world.
If you had a superhero power, what would it be?
Having ESP or the ability to predict the future. I’m a pretty linear guy so the ability to look into the future would make work life and family life much smoother and add some flavor!