2022 Unsung Legal Heroes: Shirley M. Harlin

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Firm Administration: Director of Administration, Rouse Frets White Goss Gentile Rhodes

With two decades of experience in the legal management industry, Shirley Harlin manages the professional staff of Rouse Frets White Goss Gentile Rhodes across its offices in Leawood, Kansas, and on Kansas City’s Country Club Plaza.

It’s a job that encompasses all areas of human resources, ranging from on-boarding and off-boarding employees to recruiting professional staff and attorneys to employee counseling, coaching and annual performance reviews.

Among her proudest achievements is streamlining day-to-day processes for efficiency and cutting costs, such as by limiting spending on excess monthly supplies.

“I like problem-solving, discovering best practices and finding better ways to do a better job,” she said.

Her nominator said her “natural born leadership, dedication to diversity and inclusion, and thoughtful decision making allow her to create a sense of reassurance and order within the office.”

What led you to choose a career in the legal field?

I like the fast pace of a law firm. I like that no day is the same. I am very competitive and I like to win. I like to see my firm win.

What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?

It’s not always about being right — it’s about doing the right thing.

What is something that would surprise people about you?

I love football. It doesn’t matter how cold it is, I just love the game.