Karen Nelson, a Real Estate partner in Katten’s Charlotte office who assists some of the largest commercial and investment banks, insurance companies and real estate investment trusts in complicated financial transactions, was profiled in The Glass Hammer about her success as a commercial real estate finance attorney.
Karen has worked at Katten since 2012, after to moving to Charlotte, NC in 2006. She graduated from Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law and began her career in Chicago. Her experience has taught her the importance of maintaining good perspective as an attorney (even in the wake of stressful deals). Describing her approach as one of calm and confidence, she has been able to build close relationships with her clients.
“…as young lawyers, it’s easy to become overwrought when things aren’t going perfectly. However, an accumulation of experience helps you see that everything is resolvable, and we can work through it,” Karen said.
Karen is inspired by the fact that her practice continues to grow and that there are a greater number of female attorneys and clients within the real estate industry. She also credits Katten’s female-friendly environment for helping her career. As a mentor for Katten’s Women Leadership Forum, Karen advises female attorneys on how to develop good business relationships, balance family and work life, and achieve career goals. She believes there are no limits to what women in law can achieve, and her advice comes from her own experience as a mother of two.
“It’s been very important for me to be at a place where I could have a meaningful, successful career and not miss out on life’s events. I strive to lead by example in my commitment to work-life balance and career development.”
On her greatest professional achievement, Karen said she is most proud of the strong relationships she has established with clients.
“The best part of this job is being fully integrated with these clients, in relationships I developed professionally and that have become personal as well, as we have worked together for more than a decade.”
Read “Voice of Experience: Karen Nelson, Partner, Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP” in its entirety.
Charlotte
