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Kate W. Duchene

Our Leadership

Kate

Duchene

Chief Executive Officer Button Text

In my role as Chief Executive Officer, I am focused on business strategy, capital structure and resource allocation, executive management, shareholder management, enterprise risk management and employee productivity and engagement. I am committed to setting up the structure, processes and practices that will enable the company to execute strategies effectively and drive desired outcomes. Having worked deeply in the RGP Legal business, positioning, scoping and working closely with clients, I understand what needs to be done to move the business forward and evolve as a company.

Background

 

Tell us a little bit about your career journey before joining RGP.

I joined RGP from a global law firm where I practiced employment litigation for 10 years. In that role, I learned three lessons that I apply almost daily here at RGP: the importance of listening to all perspectives to formulate the best strategy; the importance of communication in connecting and influencing professional colleagues; and lastly, that I am at my core a people person – I thrive in an environment filled with great humans who can inspire and challenge me.

Education

I received my J.D., cum laude, from New York University School of Law and my B.A. in Political Science from Stanford University.

 

Goals and Inspirations

 

What inspires you?

My family. People willing to learn with abandon. People who see the possible and aspire to achieve it by employing a growth mindset.

What is a goal you have your eyes set on?

I want to see RGP own its position as the global leader in The Future of Work revolution we’re seeing unfold. We want to be the premier partner to our global client base as they embrace a blended workforce strategy to drive their businesses forward with speed and innovation.

What does success in your role look like?

Leading the company to achieve this goal faster and outpace the competition. Inspiring people to embrace and enjoy a change journey. Oh, and of course, having some fun along the way.

 

A Day in the Life

 

What was your best day at work at RGP?

The FY19 Global Management Meeting in Nashville – actually, three days rolled into one. We connected as humans on a personal and professional level, launched our brand refresh and considered the strategic vision for the future of the organization.

What accomplishment makes you most proud since joining RGP?

Earning the trust of the Board and my colleagues to become the CEO of the firm. In the past two years, leading the organization back to growth.

Share your favorite client success story.

I love the story – of one of our first significant Transaction Services engagements. I love it because our RGP account lead nurtured this client for months before the opportunity arose. He didn’t give up. He kept in touch and kept the relationship warm. He had the confidence that we could deliver a multi-consultant, advisory project and exceed the client’s expectations. I also love the relationship and business we are delivering with clients as they embrace an Open Talent Economy strategy. They see us as a strategic, human capital partner, and this is something I can’t wait to replicate across our client base.

 

Human-First

 

At RGP we bring a human-first approach. What does that mean to you?

Our people are the firm’s greatest asset. To find and keep the best humans, we must engage in a way that makes them feel respected, valued, developed and heard. Successful people want to make a difference in their work and feel appreciated when they do. We connect with one another with transparency, kindness and humility. These are core behaviors that I think will serve us and our constituencies well in the future.

How do the RGP values (Loyalty, Integrity, Focus, Enthusiasm, Accountability and Talent) shape how you approach your role?

These values underpin everything I do here and how I show up to work every day. The values are foundational to our very special company culture. They drive our behaviors on the job, which include learning, transparency and communication.

 

YOU beyond RGP

 

How do you spend your time outside of work?

Outside of work, you can find me cooking; spoiling my dog, Cooper; and enjoying my family time.

Name three words that describe you.

Driven, open, passionate

Do you have any skills or secret talents that most people don’t know about?

I can pack for a two-week trip in a carry on – including five pair of shoes.

What charities or social causes are you passionate about?

I am passionate about three social causes: breaking the cycle of domestic violence, expanding educational opportunities and diversity and inclusion. I served for many years as Board President of the Board of Human Options, an organization that is determined to break the cycle of domestic violence and educate young people about healthy relationships. Currently, I sit on the University of California, Irvine Foundation Board, the California Minority Counsel Program Board, where I am the Co-Chair Emeritus, and the Orange County Community Foundation Board.

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