My Mentor: Elizabeth Lampert on Richard Levick
Sheila O’Gorman speaks to Elizabeth Lampert, president of ELPR, about her mentor Richard Levick – a man described as a ‘titan’ and a ‘visionary in crisis communications’, who died last year.
Tell us about your mentor, how you first met, and where you worked?
The legendary Richard Levick was my mentor. I first met him while working in-house as a PR director for an AmLaw100 law firm. Within days of meeting, he invited me to join Levick as one of his first five company hires, one of three directors and the first woman on the team. We worked together for many years, and I eventually became an EVP of the company before leaving to start my own firm. He gave me the international platform from which I started the company. His unwavering friendship, expertise, and leadership in crisis and media relations were instrumental in shaping my career.
What is it about him that remains with you?
Everything about Richard remains with me. He was a brilliant conversationalist with a strategic mindset and an extraordinary ability to navigate complex challenges with calm confidence. He was a teacher at heart, generously sharing his knowledge and high standards of excellence. Richard had a unique talent for seeing opportunities where others saw obstacles and often drew on historical examples to illuminate present-day challenges. His approach and insights left a lasting impression on me.
Did he have qualities you’ve tried to incorporate in your own career?
Absolutely. Richard had a profound influence on my career. His commitment to mentorship, his ability to inspire trust and confidence, and his unwavering dedication to excellence are qualities I strive to emulate. Richard and I maintained regular communication and collaborated frequently through a strategic partnership. He was loyal, results-oriented, and held himself and others to a high standard. I endeavour to provide the same expectations and support to my team while delivering exceptional results for clients.
How would you go about choosing a mentor?
Choosing a mentor involves identifying someone who inspires you and is willing to invest time in your growth. Look for a mentor who challenges you to think differently and who you genuinely admire and respect. A mentor-mentee relationship benefits from mutual trust and, ideally, friendship. True friends are honest, guiding you with your best interests at heart. Beyond admiration, a mentor should have the time and willingness to dedicate to the relationship.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
One of the best pieces of advice I received from Richard was: “Try to anticipate the questions your clients will have and answer them before they’re asked.” This principle has served me well in both professional and personal contexts.
“Everything about Richard remains with me. He was a brilliant conversationalist with a strategic mindset and an extraordinary ability to navigate complex challenges with calm confidence. He was a teacher at heart, generously sharing his knowledge and high standards of excellence.”
Is there a project or scenario that was especially challenging, and what did their leadership mean to you then?
One particularly challenging crisis project involved a high-profile celebrity. We had to drop everything, fly to Los Angeles, develop talking points, conduct media training, and host a press conference – all within 48 hours. At the time, I was in our London office and Richard was also traveling. His ability to remain composed under pressure and provide strategic guidance from afar allowed the team to act decisively until I could arrive. His leadership transformed a potential setback into an opportunity for growth, skill-building and teamwork. I can’t recall a single instance where he didn’t see a solution to a problem.
How would you sum up an impressive mentor as a manager?
An impressive mentor as a manager encourages their team to embrace challenges, leads with empathy, and empowers you to take chances, grow and allows room for your unique attributes. They prioritise both the tasks at hand and the personal development of their team members, particularly with new hires and during team integration.
I don’t have a mentor, am I missing out?
Of course it’s possible to succeed without a mentor. However, having one can accelerate growth, broaden your perspective, and provide invaluable support during pivotal moments. A mentor acts as a sounding board and guide. I found the best possible mentor – I would love it if there were more mentors like Richard Levick. He was one of a kind. There is a mentor out there for everyone. Choose wisely.
What is the one piece of advice you’d give to those you mentor?
The best advice I give is to stay curious and adaptable. The world changes rapidly, and the ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn is key to long-term success.
About Elizabeth Lampert
Elizabeth is president of ELPR – a strategic communications consultancy advising organisations internationally, with a vast amount of experience positioning and raising awareness of law firms and high-profile crisis communications. You can read Elizabeth’s blog here.