Southfield-based Collins Einhorn is one of the Michigan’s most prestigious law firms specializing in defense of large insurance companies and their clients as well as corporate entities.
According to the firm’s CEO, Kellie Howard, Collins Einhorn’s boutique practice groups have set the firm apart since its founding in 1971. She points to professional liability, insurance coverage, appellate and toxic tort practice groups as prime examples.
AN IDEAL LOCATION
For the last 40 years, the firm has operated from its location in the 4000 tower of the Southfield Town Center — an ideal location, according to Howard.
“A lot of our client base is in the metro Detroit area, and we’re sitting right in the center of it for our clients and employees. Geographically, it’s a very desirable location for us.”
The Town Center’s connection to a major hotel is an added amenity, making it convenient for the firm’s visiting business partners and clients.
“The physical image of our business is important,” says Howard. “Clients want to feel like we’re successful as a law firm. The Southfield Town Center and all its amenities allow us to present an image that reflects our level of practice.”
ADDRESSING A NEW CULTURE
While the firm’s location has remained unchanged for some four decades, Howard says its culture is transitioning to address today’s younger workforce.
In fact, the change began to take shape with Howard’s appointment as chief executive officer in January 2024, making her the firm’s youngest and first minority CEO.
“I was slowly integrated into the position by the then CEO. So it was a year of shadowing and understanding all the processes of business and things of that nature,” she says.
Howard attributes her impressive climb to CEO status to hard work, commitment to clients and her ability to connect with younger employees searching for a stronger work/life balance.
“To run a business today, you need to have an appreciation and an affection for people because these are very challenging hiring markets. What does everybody need? Is everyone healthy? Is everyone whole? Is everyone thriving? And that’s always something that I’ve cared about,” Howard says.
“You can’t run this business without the people who are here — from the clerks to my fellow shareholders. They all matter. You have to figure out a way to develop a culture where employees feel like they belong as people and as employees.”
