After almost three decades, Kennedy Van der Laan says goodbye to a partner and one of its most familiar faces: Fenna van Dijk. As an attorney ‘born and bred’ at Kennedy Van der Laan, Fenna started her career in the commercial M&A practice. She would later pioneer the firm’s health care practice, which under her guidance has grown into a strategic spearhead of Kennedy Van der Laan. Fenna is one of the leading experts on governance in the health care sector. In this farewell interview, Fenna looks back on three decades in the legal profession, the projects that shaped her and the lessons that will stay with her.
What was your first impression of Kennedy Van der Laan when you walked in the door 29 years ago?
“I remember my job interview like it was yesterday. It was 1996 and Kennedy Van der Laan had only existed for four years. I met all the firm’s partners in small groups at the location back then, Keizersgracht canal. I was terribly nervous, but the talks were warm and personal. This gave me the courage to be really open and the partners rewarded me with their trust.
As a partner, I have always pursued that same open and supportive atmosphere.”
As an expert on corporate law and governance, your full focus lies on health care; a rare combination for a lawyer. How did this specialization come about?
“My interest in the health care sector was aroused early. Fortunately, the firm has generously allowed me to explore this interest. At the time there was no specific focus on health care yet, while it aligns so well with what our law firm stands for: social responsibility and working on cases that matter. At present, health care is firmly rooted in the DNA of Kennedy Van der Laan. The issues we work on touch the heart of society.”
What are you most proud of?
“Social responsibility has always been my motivation, and the projects I am most proud of reflect this. Above all I will always remember the role we played in the establishment of the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology. This was a large and complex five-year project, in which we advised on all the legal aspects and I headed our team of specialists. I was not only an attorney, but also a strategic sparring partner of the hospital board. It was an intense and special period, since it was all about better care, higher chances of survival, and better quality of life for the young patients. The way of working also suited my favourite method of operation as an attorney: focusing on substance and devoting yourself jointly to a social purpose.”
“Another special project we have done was set up the covid speed test lanes for the nationwide Municipal Health Services. This required quick action and legal astuteness. Being able to contribute to the restoration of daily life was a very satisfying experience.”
Since 2013 you have been heading the health care team at Kennedy Van der Laan. How would you describe your leadership style?
“When I first started, the legal profession was still quite a male stronghold. It was important for me to develop my own style in this environment, with room for feelings and reflection. I stood out with my candour and my attentiveness to human relations. This way I could make my voice heard in the group of partners, in the office and with clients. My message to young female lawyers is therefore always: “don’t be afraid to show your vulnerability and embrace your intuition – it is your power!”
“I am a person of feeling and have long believed that this was out of place in the legal profession. But I now know that it is the very thing that makes me a better lawyer. A lawyer is also a confidential counsellor; people trust you with their greatest problems and struggles. Behind every legal problem lies a human story. If you can see this, you can make a difference – as counsel, but also as colleague and leader.”
Which lessons or insights would you like to leave with your colleagues as they will be expanding the health care practice?
“Keep listening – to your client, but also to yourself. What motivates you? What gives you energy? Also, step out of your comfort zone every now and then. You don’t have to have all the answers at once; sometimes ‘fake it till you make it’ is simply a realistic strategy.”
“Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Another person’s outlook may make the difference. I have gained many valuable insights by simply joining another lunch table, or by talking to someone who has a different perspective or comes from a different field.”
“It is this cooperation with colleagues from various specialisms and diverse backgrounds that has always inspired me. This cross-fertilization is so valuable for our clients, and that is exactly the force of our firm. I am convinced that together we can make a lasting impact in health care.”
“After years of care and commitment, I leave behind strong foundations to build on. The health care practice is in the capable hands of Eline Lam, who will be heading the health care team. Together with Floor Cornelissen, Chris Nekeman and Eylard van Fenema, she will be expanding this practice. I place my full trust in these colleagues given their broad experience in the sector, their commitment and eye for quality. Their efforts, passion and expertise are key to the personal and professional service-providing that we at Kennedy Van der Laan stand for. It makes me grateful that the work will be continued by such devoted colleagues. It is reassuring to know that the health care practice remains in good hands.”
What are you going to do after this?
“I take my leave from the legal profession after almost 30 years. I am 55, still young enough to change my course. One thing is for sure: I will stay connected to the health care sector. In September I took up training to become a health care supervisor. I am also considering other director’s or lawyer's positions in health care, or in education. There is no shortage of new ideas! But first I have to say goodbye to this beautiful firm.”
“It is my colleagues I am going to miss. Kennedy has a special place in my heart. It is a place full of marvellous people and room for personal fulfilment. When I opened that large wooden door at Keizersgracht back then, it was the start of an unforgettable chapter. I now close it with satisfaction and look forward to what lies ahead.”
