Leadership, Law & the Military: Navigating Dual Careers at the Highest Level

In this episode of Oblig8Ed, host Ashrita Patel, sits down with Ranald Munro CB CBE TD DL VR, Executive Adviser, Executive Coach, Mentor and Confidante, Chief Legal Officer and Military Reservist.

Ranald’s career spans from the Crown Prosecution Service to in-house commercial practice and senior military leadership. From early years shaped by living abroad, to becoming a barrister and later holding senior in-house roles as a lawyer and company secretary at organisations like L’Oréal, Chubb Insurance and Lombard, Ranald shares how he built a legal career, almost by accident, then excelled.

Alongside this, he served in the military in the Parachute Regiment, rising from private soldier to Major General and Deputy Land Commander Forces in the British Army and then Assistant Chief of the Defence Staff and later as Commandant General, Director Reserves in the Royal Auxiliary Air Force.  

Ranald reflects on balancing two demanding careers, and how civilian and military skills and experiences complement each other. 

The episode also explores:

  • Building and managing dual careers across different sectors

  • How skills transfer between the practise of law and the military

  • Lessons from operating in high-pressure environments

  • The importance of adaptability

  • Why supportive employers are key to enabling ambitious, non-linear career paths

  • Aligning personal values with organisations/long-term career decisions

  • What success means

  • Goal-setting and why it is important 

  • Why law is a good discipline

Throughout the conversation, Ranald shares candid reflections on the realities behind both career paths; offering perspectives on discipline, purpose, and navigating complex environments. 

His story highlights what’s possible when ambition is paired with adaptability, a strong sense of purpose in a supportive environment. 

After reflecting on this episode: what will you do to progress your career?