Perkins Coie Seattle Office Managing Partner James Williams was named a Director of the Year for 2022 by the Puget Sound Business Journal.

He was featured in “The Business Journal Recognizes James Williams [as] One of our Directors of the Year for 2022” for his successful approach to people and situations as an in-demand board member and respected office managing partner at Perkins Coie.

What should be every board member’s No. 1 priority?
Fulfillment of the organization’s mission. The board is in charge of the organization’s direction and should have policies in place that tie in directly to the mission.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received, and who did you receive it from?
Treat everyone around you like a volunteer. I heard that from my partner, Evelyn Sroufe. Her point is that the people who work with and around you have the choice and the right not to — even if they are being paid. To get the best out of them requires inspiration and convincing them that they should do what is being asked.

What are some ways boards can increase diversity, and why is that important?
Go directly to the diverse communities and explain why the board matters to them. Recruit high-profile members of that community to the board: this is important for the organization’s legitimacy.

Read the full article in the Puget Sound Business Journal.