2025 In-House Counsel Awards: Sara Reid

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Vice President and Deputy General Counsel | BJC Health System | St. Louis

Sara Reid joined BJC after five years in a law firm and has been with the health system for 20 years.

Reid said, “To me, the in-house position is and has been an opportunity to build and sustain trust with clients and to really understand the goals of the business through those relationships.” She appreciates the long-term relationships and friendships that have developed over this time.

Her work differs from her law firm experience. When asked questions as in-house counsel, she is able to get more context and additional perspective beyond the discrete legal question. She has history and precedent with her own clients, which provides helpful background to aid in providing the best counsel. She also has an easier way to follow up after advice has been given to learn about outcomes and see the impact of the guidance on the business.

Reid focuses on helping clients reach business objectives in a legally compliant manner while ensuring workloads are resourced well across her team.