Beth B. Woods is a Managing Director in our Chicago office where she focuses on representing attorneys in the lateral marketplace. Beth works with attorneys to formulate and execute strategies to achieve their career goals. She is a seasoned trial attorney who brings many years of experience to her career as a legal recruiter.
Having been both an associate and a partner in a law firm, Beth has a unique understanding of, and perspective on, the practice of law. Her career as a litigator honed her ability to read people, elicit information and effectively communicate with them. This background serves her well at Major, Lindsey & Africa, as she counsels associates and partners in finding and selecting positions most suited to their skills, background, training and personality.
Beth returned to Chicago in 2002 after realizing that she missed the energy of the city, the graciousness of Midwesterners and the ability to get a good hot dog at 2 a.m. In her free time, she enjoys golfing, attending live sporting events and playing the occasional game of pickup.
Prior to joining Major, Lindsey & Africa, Beth was a litigation partner at Williams, Montgomery & John Ltd., specializing in the areas of trucking, construction and premises liability. In addition to taking well over 100 depositions, Beth tried and successfully defended multiple jury trial cases in state and federal courts.
After law school, she practiced in Naples, Florida, as a commercial litigator before moving back to Chicago.
In another life (pre-law), Beth traveled the world as a shore excursion manager for Norwegian Cruise Lines. While she will vigorously deny it, Beth calls a mean game of BINGO and has taught thousands of people the world over how to dance the Cotton Eyed Joe.
University of Miami School of Law – Coral Gables, Florida: J.D., cum laude
University of Chicago College – Chicago, Illinois: B.A., Romance Language and Literature, with honors
Studied and worked abroad
Speaks fluent French
"Beth is one of the few in her industry that I absolutely trust. Her professionalism and integrity are beyond reproach. At all times I have complete confidence that she places the interests of her client over her own personal interest or gain. In a day and age when most people are out only for themselves, Beth is a breath of fresh air. She is direct, honest and fair. I can think of no one who I would trust more with providing guidance on my career or helping build a legal department. If you are looking for a professional to either help you find placement or to fill a need in your company, legal department or firm, you should look no further. I have recommended Beth to numerous colleagues, clients and friends and give her my strongest possible endorsement."
—Jason Marks
Assistant Counsel, Litigation/Investigations/Antitrust
Stryker
