Future Shapers: Career Evolution and Leadership Across Cultures

BRG Director Li Li and Michelle Bock, a partner at Squire Patton Boggs, reflect on their global career journeys and leadership lessons they have learned along the way.   

Having grown up in the United States and moved to Germany and now Belgium, Michelle shares her experiences navigating cultural and professional complexities of working in international markets.  

Leading the conversation, Li brings her own global perspective—beginning her career in China at an investment bank before relocating to the US, where she works in BRG’s Energy & Climate practice.  

Together, they offer insights on next-generation leadership, the importance of collaboration, and the role of mutual respect in building inclusive, high-performing teams. Through personal stories of career evolution and mentorship, Li and Michelle highlight what it takes to succeed and thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. 

Selected Transcript Summary

[0:51]
Li Li introduces herself and Michelle Bock, noting Michelle’s international career across Germany, Belgium, and the United States. They set the stage for a conversation on global leadership and next-generation leadership traits. Michelle and Li reflect on working together in arbitration.

[3:03]
Michelle discusses generational shifts within international arbitration and emphasizes the importance of adaptability as the torch passes to professionals in their 30s and 40s.

[4:47]
Li prompts Michelle to share her international career journey. Michelle outlines her transition from the US to Europe, touching on cultural and business differences that challenged and expanded her leadership style. Michelle emphasizes how cross-cultural work revealed the importance of challenging assumptions and learning from other market norms. She discusses synthesizing global practices to become a more flexible leader.

[8:08]
They highlight language barriers and business communication as real challenges. Michelle explains how learning “real-world” terminology beyond academic language was essential in her development.

[11:01]
They discuss how discomfort and being pushed beyond one’s comfort zone foster leadership growth. Michelle talks about listening with intent and embracing professional challenges. Michelle highlights leadership traits she admires: respecting people as individuals and building authentic working relationships. She also addresses the importance of having self-confidence without being arrogant.

[16:18]
Li and Michelle agree on the value of trust and delegating with intention. Michelle differentiates between assigning tasks and empowering ownership.

[20:19]
Michelle reflects on important mentorship in her career from a federal judge and a senior partner at Squire Patton Boggs. She shares how early autonomy and support gave her the confidence to grow into leadership roles. Li discusses mentorship from Chris Goncalves, a managing director and head of BRG’s Energy & Climate practice, who challenges her while supporting her growth.

[22:55]
Michelle advises mentees to accept opportunities even when they feel unprepared, learn from mistakes without being overly self-critical, and always seek support when needed.

[24:43]
Michelle shares a pivotal experience leading client preparation as a junior associate, which taught her the value of collaboration and peer teamwork. Li recalls her own leadership turning point in managing large, cross-functional teams, realizing leadership required more than technical skill.

[27:06]
Michelle debunks the myth that senior leaders always have answers. She emphasizes the importance of having structured processes to manage the unknown.

[28:01]
They explore networking as an essential for career growth and opportunity. Michelle explains how global mobility and staying connected have led to referrals, appointments, and speaking engagements.

[31:02]
Michelle outlines her team development approach: treat people well, foster team cohesion, and build an environment where junior team members feel their contributions matter.

[33:00]
They close with final thoughts on evolving leadership needs. Michelle encourages young professionals to dream big and embrace nontraditional paths. She reflects on her journey from Ohio to a global legal practice.