Kathryn Holt Richardson, J.D., is an accomplished legal recruiting expert, lawyer wellness advocate, and keynote speaker. As the CEO and founder of HR Legal Search, a premier attorney search firm, she is who elite law firms turn to when they want to hire the nation’s top legal talent. Backed by 30 years of experience in career services and placement in the legal industry, Kathy is known for a strategic yet heart-centered approach to recruiting that yields unmatched results in her field.
A respected leader in partner recruiting, Kathy served as one of the youngest and first Black woman Assistant Dean of Career Services for The University of Texas School of Law. Her experience there provided her with a deep understanding of what law firms are looking for when seeking top talent. With that insight, and driven by her philosophy of “everyone deserves to love their job,” she prides herself on placing candidates in roles that allow them to thrive and be paid what they’re worth. Her dream job is to help others find their dream job.
Under Kathy’s vision and direction, HR Legal Search has consistently been named one of Texas’ Best Legal Recruiting Firms by Texas Lawyer since 2011. She co-founded the Austin office of global legal search firm Major, Lindsey & Africa and served as the founding chair of the National Association of Legal Search Consultants Belonging and Inclusion Committee.
Due to her many years of closing lucrative deals that leave both sides of the table happy, Kathy holds valuable insights into how lawyers succeed and areas where they struggle. Her work as a lawyer, wellness advocate, and keynote speaker is borne out of her desire to see more lawyers thrive personally and professionally. Through Lawyers Who Rest™ and Lawyers Who Climb®, she leads initiatives that support lawyers and other high achievers in their overall well-being. Kathy is a certified yoga instructor and wellness counselor. She's an avid hiker and mountaineer who summited Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, and Mount Kenya in 2024. She draws on the healing power of nature to cultivate a sense of connection and community for lawyers and other high achievers on their wellness journeys.
Education
- J.D., The University of Texas School of Law
- B.A. in International Affairs, American University
- Wellness Counseling Certificate, Cornell University, 2025
- Kundalini Yoga Therapy Certificate, Yoga Alliance (YACEP), 2023
Professional Experience
- HR Legal Search, Founder and Principal, 2006 to present
- Major, Lindsey & Africa, Managing Director
- The University of Texas School of Law, Assistant Dean for Career Services
Professional Organizations
- National Association of Legal Search Consultants, Board Member, 2021 to 2024
- NALSC Belonging and Inclusion Committee, Founding Chair
- Corporate Counsel Women of Color, Active Member and Speaker
- National Bar Association Commercial Law Section, Member and Speaker
- State Bar of Texas Texas Minority Counsel Program, Past Steering Committee Member
- Travis County Women Lawyers' Association, Member
- The University of Texas School of Law Reunion Committee, Member
Recognitions
- Exceptional Alumni, Texas Law Black History Month 2022: Celebrating Excellence and Achievement in the Legal Profession
- Pathfinders Award Winner, Travis County Women Lawyers' Association, 2022
- Outstanding Contribution to the Minority Community, Travis County Women Lawyers’ Association, 2018
Presentations
Media Appearances
- "Well-Being for Rainmakers," The Rainmaking Podcast, August 22, 2024
- "Kathy, an African American who summited Mt Meru, Kilimanjaro," The Citizen (Tanzania), August 2, 2024
- Council of Firsts Podcast, January 16, 2024
- NALSC Recruiter Stories Podcast, August 2, 2022
- "Fortuitous Career Choice for All," Vanguard Law Magazine, 2019
“My dream job is to help others find their dream job.”
sky's the limit
A fearless trailblazer in the boardroom or at the summit
Wellness enthusiast
As a certified Wellness Counselor, Kathy promotes occupational well-being.
Reaching the summit
Kathy's journey to the world's highest peaks has been nothing short of extraordinary.
speaking out
A thought leader
Kathy is widely recognized as a thought leader in her industry, frequently sharing her insights on popular podcasts. Her recruiting expertise and innovative approach to lawyer well-being have made her a recognized voice in her field.
Upcoming Events
Kathy will be sharing her groundbreaking strategies for leadership and innovation, offering attendees a unique perspective on navigating the challenges of modern business.
Kathy will discuss the importance of integrating wellness practices into the workplace, highlighting strategies that promote a healthier and more productive environment.
Kathy will explore effective techniques for attracting and retaining top talent in small firms, providing actionable insights for business leaders.
