Anna Marie Armstrong is an experienced legal recruiter who is known for her thoughtful, relationship-driven approach. As a Partner at HR Legal Search, Anna brings deep expertise in building high-performing legal teams and connecting lawyers with rewarding career opportunities.
Anna has worked with leading law firms and in-house legal departments across the country to recruit and place attorneys at all levels, including law firm partners, associates, and general counsel. Her clients have included AmLaw 100 and 200 firms, premier boutique law firms, companies in the high-tech, financial services, entertainment, life sciences, and healthcare sectors, as well as nonprofit organizations.
A recognized expert in legal recruiting and a longstanding advocate for women and minority lawyers, Anna frequently speaks at legal conferences and law schools on diversity and emerging issues shaping the legal market.
Anna began her legal recruiting career at Major, Lindsey & Africa, where she developed expertise in both in-house and law firm placements and helped establish the firm’s Diversity Task Force. She later worked at Macrae and Mestel & Company, conducting retained and contingent searches for general counsel and law firm partners. She then served as Senior Director of Recruiting at Paragon Legal, an innovative, woman-led leader in the interim placement of attorneys.
Before transitioning into legal recruiting, Anna practiced law as an associate at Howard, Rice, Nemerovski, Canady, Falk & Rabkin in San Francisco (now Arnold & Porter), where she worked on complex litigation matters. She earned her B.A. from Brown University and her J.D. from UC Berkeley School of Law, where she served as an Associate Editor of the California Law Review. Following law school, she clerked for the Honorable Earl B. Gilliam on the United States District Court for the Southern District of California.
Education
- J.D., UC Berkeley School of Law
- B.A., Brown University
Professional Experience
Professional Organizations
Recognitions
Presentations
Media Appearances
“I believe the right opportunity can define a career — and the right talent can transform an organization.”
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.
