In this in-depth and insightful Q&A, we sat down and spoke to Rodney Diggs, the new President and Managing Partner at member firm Ivie McNeill Wyatt Purcell & Diggs.
Congratulations Rodney! As the new President and Managing Partner, what is your vision for IMW over the next few years?
Thank you — it’s an exciting time for our firm. My vision is to build on IMW’s long-standing reputation for excellence and integrity while driving growth through innovation, inclusion, and strategic expansion. We want to deepen our presence nationally, strengthen our relationships across the Interact Law network, and continue providing exceptional legal counsel with a human touch. My focus is on positioning IMW for the next generation — sustainable growth, technological agility, and meaningful client partnerships.
Have any key leadership principles guided you throughout your career, and how will they shape your approach in this new role?
Absolutely. I’ve always believed in three principles: lead by example, empower others, and act with integrity. Leadership to me is about service — creating an environment where talented people can thrive. In this new role, I intend to foster collaboration across practice areas, ensure transparency in decision-making, and maintain a culture where everyone feels valued and accountable.
“My vision is to build on IMW’s long-standing reputation for excellence and integrity while driving growth through innovation, inclusion, and strategic expansion”
How do you define success for the firm under your leadership?
Success is more than revenue or growth — it’s about impact and legacy. For me, success means cultivating a diverse, high-performing team that delivers outstanding results for clients while giving back to our communities. If our attorneys feel inspired, our clients feel supported, and our firm continues to shape the profession in positive ways, that’s true success.
How does IMW plan to adapt to the evolving landscape of legal technology and AI over the coming years?
We see technology as a force multiplier, not a replacement for good judgment. IMW is actively integrating AI-driven research, e-discovery, and document management tools to enhance efficiency and accuracy. But we’re equally focused on training our lawyers to think critically about how these tools are used. The future of legal practice will blend human insight with technological precision — and IMW intends to be at the forefront of that evolution.
What aspects of your firm’s culture are you most proud of, and how do you plan to strengthen them?
I’m most proud of our collegiality, diversity, and commitment to community service. IMW has always reflected the communities we serve, and that gives us strength. I plan to continue promoting mentorship, inclusivity, and professional development opportunities, while celebrating the collaborative spirit that has defined our firm for more than 80 years.
How do you plan to develop the next generation of partners and leaders?
Our future depends on investing in people. We’re formalizing mentorship programs, creating clearer partnership pathways, and encouraging early leadership roles in firm initiatives. I want our associates to feel empowered to contribute ideas and take ownership of their careers. Leadership development isn’t an event — it’s a culture of continuous learning, and that’s the culture we’re building.
What do you find most rewarding (and challenging) about leading a law firm?
The most rewarding part is seeing others succeed — watching our attorneys grow into confident advocates and our clients achieve their goals. The greatest challenge is balancing the demands of leadership with the needs of individuals — ensuring we evolve without losing the personal connection that defines us. But those challenges are what make leadership meaningful.
Also read the member Page of Ivie McNeill Wyatt Purcell & Diggs
