Alastair Da Costa on Leadership, Change, and What’s Next for Maven Radd

Maven Radd is proud to welcome Alastair Da Costa, CBE, as Chair of its Advisory Board. With a distinguished career in law, education, and governance, Alastair brings a wealth of strategic insight and cross-sector experience to the role. We sat down with him to discuss his vision, leadership philosophy, and what excites him about joining Maven Radd.

‍Q: You’ve held senior leadership roles across law, education, and the not-for-profit sector. What have these experiences taught you about effective leadership?‍

A: Leadership is ultimately about people. Whether in law firms, educational institutions, or charities, the most impactful leaders are those who listen, empower others, and stay grounded in purpose. My time at DLA Piper taught me the importance of strategic clarity and global collaboration, while my work in education and the third sector deepened my appreciation for inclusive leadership and long-term impact. Effective leadership is not just about steering the ship—it’s about ensuring everyone on board is equipped, engaged, and aligned.

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Q: What drew you to Maven Radd, and what do you hope to contribute in your role as Chair of the Advisory Board?‍

A: I’ve known members of the Maven Radd team for some time and have always admired their values-driven approach. The firm’s commitment to embedding legal expertise within client teams and delivering agile, empathetic services resonates strongly with me. As Chair, my role is to provide strategic oversight and help the leadership team maintain an outside-in perspective—ensuring we stay attuned to market shifts, client needs, and opportunities for innovation. I’m here to challenge, support, and help shape the next phase of growth.

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Q: What do you see as the biggest opportunities for alternative legal service providers (ALSPs) in today’s market?‍

A: The legal landscape is evolving rapidly. Clients are looking for more than technical expertise—they want partners who understand their business, anticipate challenges, and deliver solutions that are both practical and strategic. ALSPs like Maven Radd are uniquely positioned to meet this demand. By combining essential legal knowledge with commercial insight and flexible delivery models, we can offer real value. The opportunity lies in scaling that impact while staying true to our core principles: trust, agility, and collaboration.‍

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Q: What advice would you give to legal professionals looking to make a broader impact in their careers?‍

A: Stay curious and open to change. The legal profession is no longer confined to traditional paths—there are opportunities to lead, influence policy, drive innovation, and contribute to society in meaningful ways. I’ve found that stepping outside the expected trajectory—whether into education, governance, or advisory roles—can be incredibly rewarding. My advice is to seek out roles that align with your values, challenge your thinking, and allow you to make a difference beyond the legal function.

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Alastair Da Costa’s appointment to Maven Radd’s Advisory Board signals the firm’s intent to strengthen its governance, broaden its perspective, and remain firmly aligned with its purpose. His experience across law, business, and education brings a rare blend of insight that will help guide growth while safeguarding culture. As Maven Radd continues to build momentum, Alastair’s emphasis on values-driven leadership and long-term impact will be invaluable in shaping the firm’s strategy and deepening its community reach. With his support, Maven Radd is well positioned to deliver lasting value to clients, colleagues, and the wider sector.