Sarah Hardgrove Koleno

Sarah Hardgrove Koleno, a Managing Director in the Chicago Partner Practice Group, counsels law firms as well as partners and partner groups to better navigate the lateral market, identifying opportunities for growth and strategic advancement. Her many years as a partner at Jenner & Block in Chicago give her a unique and valuable perspective when advising law firm partners on career goals and providing objective and confidential representation when they decide to explore moving firms. She also provides an important perspective when advising law firm clients on achieving their lateral partner hiring goals.

Prior to joining Major, Lindsey & Africa, Sarah practiced law at Jenner & Block in Chicago for 18 years. As a litigation partner, she handled complex commercial litigation matters as well as significant white collar matters. She conducted internal investigations and assisted major clients with corporate compliance programs and counseling. Sarah’s many years as a partner in a general practice firm in Chicago give her an understanding of the practices that are important to clients and a unique ability to provide this valuable perspective when advising law firm clients as to how to achieve their goals. Sarah is also able to confidentially and objectively advise individual partners and partner groups on career issues based on personal experience and a solid understanding of the Chicago market.

Most recently, Sarah served as CEO and general counsel for KRa Drinks for Athletes, Inc, an organic sports drink start-up she co-founded and launched in 2015. Sarah worked with her founding team to create the vision and direction for all aspects of the operations. She also raised capital to finance the operations and reported to its stakeholders. Sarah’s experience launching a start-up has provided a valuable perspective about determination, taking chances and following her entrepreneurial passion.