Jeppa Persson on living one’s most authentic life
On paper, she may have only been a Senior Associate (Private Equity/M&A) at Roschier for less than a year, but don’t be fooled. She is an old hand with nearly a decade of experience and has worked at the firm between 2018 and 2021. So, what drew her back to Roschier?
Jeppa Persson explains: “I have always been driven by curiosity, and each step in my career has been motivated by a genuine desire to deepen my expertise and experience different professional environments,” she says. “Now, at this point in my career, I knew Roschier would be the ideal place to continue my growth. The fact that so many colleagues here still remember me has made returning even more meaningful.”
“I have always been driven by curiosity, and each step in my career has been motivated by a genuine desire to deepen my expertise and experience different professional environments”
When art and law mix
This commitment to growth and development is characteristic of Jeppa’s life, both personal and professional. She grew up in a family where creativity and the arts were valued. Her parents were artists, and it instilled in her the need to be intellectually stimulated. This, coupled with encouragement from her parents, saw her explore law as a career where she could explore the best of both worlds.
“I have always had a passion for reading and writing – language fascinates me; it’s engaging and endlessly stimulating,” she shares. “When I considered career paths that would let me work closely with words, I thought of writing, journalism, or law. I was also drawn to questions of right, wrong, and the moral grey areas in between, which ultimately led me to pursue a career in law.”
Jeppa’s legal career began as an Associate in a smaller law firm, and her journey grew from strength to strength. Driven by the desire to specialize and take on new challenges, she moved to Roschier. A pivotal professional moment was when she went on a secondment to work in-house with one of Roschier’s core clients.
“It was a prominent, publicly listed Swedish investment company, and I was stepping in as legal counsel while the primary counsel was on parental leave,” Jeppa recalls. “With only four to five years as an associate, I felt the weight of the role and the high expectations. But I pushed through, gaining valuable skills that have shaped me as a consultant, legal professional, and individual. I also had a lot of fun and made many great friends. I wouldn’t change a thing.”
On living one’s most authentic life
The experience was transformative, providing her with the opportunity to develop greater independence and confidence in her abilities. After this, Jeppa continued to seek out new opportunities, moving on to work at an international law firm and even working in London. These experiences further honed her skills and broadened her perspective, building up to her returning to Roschier. A decision that Jeppa considers to be her best yet.
“I’m truly proud of my approach to pursuing what feels right and letting go of things that don’t feel authentic,” she shares. “Returning to Roschier felt right on every level, and I’m grateful that the timing aligned perfectly for this next step in my career.”
Authenticity and her desire for it have a big influence on how Jeppa approaches the practice of law, her leadership style and her collaborations with her team. She believes in the importance of being authentic, present and open about one’s values, interests and personality.
“Working hard and aiming high is second nature for most lawyers. But it’s the other things – family, friends, passions outside of work – that keep us grounded and remind us why we do it all. To lead and succeed, you need to find your balance.”
“When I first entered corporate law, I think I felt the need to fit a specific mold and, perhaps, held back certain parts of my personality and interests,” Jeppa explains. “Over time, I’ve realized you don’t have to choose – it’s possible to be a dedicated corporate lawyer while still embracing your personal passions, whether in the arts, literature, or other areas. Being genuine helps you stand out. Clients and colleagues see the real you, which builds trust and approachability. Staying authentic also keeps you energized and grounded, allowing you to focus on what truly matters without feeling like you have to put on a front.”
Understanding why we work
Jeppa’s commitment to authenticity shines through both her professional approach and personal style. She openly discusses her love for literature, art, and travel, while encouraging younger team members to embrace their own interests and bring their full selves to work. “In a firm like Roschier, where support and growth are prioritized, being genuine and approachable can truly take you far. It’s certainly been key to my own career,” she explains.
So, what other advice would she give current and future colleagues based on her long and successful career?
“Working hard and aiming high is second nature for most lawyers. But it’s the other things – family, friends, passions outside of work – that keep us grounded and remind us why we do it all. To lead and succeed, you need to find your balance,” advises Jeppa.