Banner artwork by PeopleImages.com - Yuri A / Shutterstock.com
Career growth is rarely a straight path. In-house counsel face evolving responsibilities, competitive job markets, and leadership transitions that demand clarity and resilience. ACC provides career resources designed to meet those challenges head-on, offering personalized coaching, webinars, and peer support. ACC members share — in their own words — how these services have shaped their professional journeys.
Chantel Jordan | Founder & CEO | (Strategic Legal + Human Capital Advisor & Governance Partner for Growth) | Golden Laurel Advisors
“As a member of the ACC Houston Board of Directors and a former chair of our Career Development Committee, I have had the privilege of mentoring in-house counsel through moments of growth and transition. With a background as a general counsel and chief people officer, I have seen how the right coaching can offer clarity, confidence, and connection. ACC’s resources have supported our Houston community and shaped my own path.”
Jacob Kojfman | Senior Legal Counsel (Client Solutions – Strategic Contracts and Collaboration) Enterprise Legal | The Co-operators Group Limited
“The Career Coaches the ACC has on its roster are one of the best benefits of being an ACC member. I make a point of booking a session at each AM I attend. I can get some tools and guidance for my career to give me something to put into action for the following year. Even if you are happy with you career and job, the ACC Career Coaches are a great resource to bounce some ideas or other challenges you may be facing.”
Q: In just a sentence or two, how would you describe the value of ACC Career Coaching to your professional growth?
Chantel: ACC’s career services have helped our Houston members advance within their legal departments, land dream roles elsewhere, and navigate complex conversations around compensation and career trajectory. On a personal note, ACC played a pivotal role in helping me secure one of my early in-house legal positions, and I am proud to be part of an organization that supports lawyers at every stage of their journey.
Jacob: Incredibly valuable. Sheila Murphy’s webinars alone are worth it. Lawyers often overthink, delay decisions, and wait for perfect information — which never comes. A coach helps cut through that, identify unseen factors, and move you toward better decisions.
Q: What motivated you to sign up for ACC’s Career Coaching, and how did it exceed your expectations?
Jacob: Originally, the fact that it was free. You hear a lot about coaching and the benefits it provides. ACC’s Career Coaching was a low-risk way to try it. My first coach was Sheila Murphy. I didn’t really have expectations; I just wanted an outside perspective. I ended up liking her approach and still attend her webinars regularly. I even referred clients to her and engaged her for interview prep.
Q: Can you share one specific insight or piece of advice from your coach that had a lasting impact on your career path?
Jacob: Sheila emphasizes the importance of providing value beyond legal skills — showing how you can impact the organization strategically. That idea changed how I approached interviews. She also speaks about the power of the whisper network, which I’ve since been cultivating.
Q: How did working with an ACC Career Coach help you navigate a professional challenge or transition?
Jacob: I engaged Sheila Murphy to help prepare for interviews. The feedback I received was invaluable and directly contributed to my success in landing my current role.
Q: What would you tell another ACC member who is considering signing up for career coaching at the Annual Meeting?
Chantel: I always encourage members to take advantage of ACC’s Career Coaching, especially at the Annual Meeting. Whether you are exploring a new role, preparing for a promotion conversation, or simply seeking clarity on your next step, these coaches understand the unique challenges and opportunities of in-house practice. It is a rare chance to reflect, recalibrate, and invest in your growth with guidance tailored to our profession. Seek career advice, skill-building, and valuable professional development opportunities with our ACC Jobline.
Jacob: First, it’s free, so your only trade-off is time you might otherwise spend browsing exhibitor booths. Second, it’s a chance to get perspective from someone not close to your situation. Third, you benefit from their cumulative experience with many clients, which helps you see beyond your own blind spots.
The lasting value of ACC career resources
The experiences of Chantel Jordan and Jacob Kojfman reflect the breadth of value that ACC Career Resources deliver — mentorship, practical insights, and a supportive community tailored to the realities of in-house counsel. Whether you are seeking clarity, preparing for transition, or aiming for leadership growth, ACC Career Coaching offers a trusted partner on the journey.
Disclaimer: The information in any resource in this website should not be construed as legal advice or as a legal opinion on specific facts, and should not be considered representing the views of its authors, its sponsors, and/or ACC. These resources are not intended as a definitive statement on the subject addressed. Rather, they are intended to serve as a tool providing practical guidance and references for the busy in-house practitioner and other readers.
