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We believe in the power of vision, tenacity, and expertise to transform an idea into a successful reality. It’s through the shared passion and relentless pursuit of excellence of our founding team that The Law Firm Management Academy came into existence. We are thrilled to introduce you to the dynamic individuals who envisioned a world where lawyers could flourish not only in the courtroom but in the realm of business as well. With diverse backgrounds and a wealth of experience in their respective fields, these leaders pooled their knowledge and resources to create a platform that empowers law firms to thrive. Let us introduce you to the masterminds behind the academy.

Our Founders

Phil Blende

Co-Founder / CEO

phil@lfmacademy.com

With an impressive track record spanning over two decades, Phil stands as a titan in the legal industry, providing unparalleled consultancy in both the Information Technology and business sectors. He currently holds the esteemed position of Co-Founder and CEO of the Law Firm Management Academy, an esteemed institution committed to equipping law firms with the necessary skills to enhance their efficiency and profitability.

Before ascending to his present role, Phil proved his acumen in various capacities, most notably as the Chief Operating Officer for several prominent law firms in Southern California. These experiences have equipped him with a deep understanding of the dynamics of running successful legal operations. His technical prowess was honed in his roles as IT Manager for notable firms such as Lexxiom Inc., The Mossler Law Firm, and The Seideman Law Firm.

Phil’s entrepreneurial spirit is reflected in his role as CEO and Founder of ITEK Solutions Inc., an IT consulting firm that was instrumental in delivering both IT and business solutions to law firms in the San Bernardino County area. Further demonstrating his leadership credentials, Phil served as the Vice President of Operations for the International Consortium of Information Technology Professionals (ICTP), solidifying his place in the vanguard of the industry.

His academic prowess mirrors his professional accomplishments, with a formidable array of degrees under his belt. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Technical Management, a Master of Business Administration (MBA), and a Master of Arts in Management.

A devoted servant to his country, Phil is a proud Veteran of the U.S. Navy, where he spent six admirable years as a Naval Intelligence Specialist. Following his naval career, he continued his service to the community as a police officer in the Cities of Redlands and Monrovia.

Currently, Phil is harnessing his wealth of knowledge and experience in a new venture – authoring a groundbreaking book titled “The Non-Attorney COO Handbook – Vol I. Maximizing Efficiency and Profitability in Law Firms.” With this book, he aims to share his insights and pave the way for a new era of effective and profitable law firm management.

Our Founders

April Bayonne

Co-Founder / President

april@lfmacademy.com

April Bayonne is a distinguished legal professional with a comprehensive academic background in business and law. A proud alumnus of the University of Arkansas, Fort Smith, April obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration.

Her thirst for knowledge didn’t stop there; she subsequently pursued and attained a law degree from the esteemed William H. Bowen School of Law.

Complementing her legal prowess, she also holds an M.B.A from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, reinforcing her business acumen.

Our Founders

Greg Borgardt

Co-Founder / Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

greg@lfmacademy.com

Greg Borgardt is a highly accomplished Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with extensive experience as a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in the legal industry. Known for his expertise in financial management, strategic planning, and operational efficiency, he has played a pivotal role in optimizing financial performance and driving growth for law firms.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and a Master’s of Business Management in Accounting and Entrepreneurship and is a distinguished Certified Public Accountant (CPA). His educational background, coupled with his professional certification, has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles, financial regulations, and business strategy.

As a CFO, Greg has made significant contributions to the financial success of law firms. He has leveraged his expertise in financial management to streamline operations, optimize costs, and enhance profitability.

In his role as CFO of a prestigious law firm, Greg oversees all aspects of financial planning and analysis. he successfully implemented financial controls, developed strategic budgets, and provided insightful financial reports to key stakeholders. By closely monitoring financial performance and identifying growth opportunities, Greg played a pivotal role in driving revenue growth and maximizing profitability. He has successfully implemented cost-saving initiatives and identified opportunities for revenue diversification. By conducting comprehensive financial analyses, he has identified areas for operational improvement, allowing the law firm to optimize resource allocation and improve overall efficiency.

Greg is committed to excellence in his profession and maintains an active pursuit of professional growth and continued learning. He stays abreast of the latest trends and advancements in accounting and finance, attending industry conferences, participating in professional development programs, and obtaining advanced certifications.

Greg’s extensive experience as a CFO in the legal industry, combined with his deep knowledge of accounting and financial management, positions him as a strategic financial leader. His ability to optimize financial operations, drive business growth, and ensure regulatory compliance has made him a trusted advisor in the legal community. With an unwavering commitment to excellence and a passion for leveraging financial insights to fuel success, Greg continues to make a lasting impact on law firms, enabling them to thrive in a competitive landscape.