Lesley Tone began her professional journey as a litigation associate in Chicago, where she practiced for five years and developed the analytical client-service approach, and practical judgment that continue to shape her work today. In 2011, she transitioned into legal recruiting, a move that allowed her to combine her legal training with her passion for helping attorneys navigate career growth and law firms build strategically. Over the years, Lesley has worked at one of the largest publicly traded recruiting firms and has become known for her strong market instincts, thoughtful guidance, and deep national network.
Lesley’s recruiting practice spans both law firms and corporate legal departments. She has successfully placed partners and associates across Am Law 100 firms, advising on lateral growth, practice-area trends, and long-term career planning. On the in-house side, she has worked extensively with Fortune 500 companies nationwide, helping them identify top legal talent and build high-performing teams. Her in-house placements range from corporate counsel roles to senior leadership positions, including General Counsels for major corporations. Clients value her straightforward communication style, market fluency, and ability to understand both the business and human dimensions of a successful hire.
A fourth-generation attorney, Lesley earned her B.A. in Psychology with distinction from the University of Michigan in 2003 and her J.D. from the University of Iowa in 2007. Her academic background in psychology enhances her strength in assessing talent, understanding motivations, and fostering long-term professional relationships.
Outside of work, Lesley is a voracious reader, group fitness enthusiast, and avid traveler who finds energy in new experiences and active pursuits. She volunteers at various Chicago-based fundraisers and charitable events and is an enthusiastic supporter of her alma mater—the Michigan Wolverines.
