My diversity networks

State School Educated
Low Income Family
Non-Russell Group
Accents

Profile:

I went to a non-selective state school in the North of England that has subsequently closed and been demolished. I speak with an accent and I am the first lawyer in my extended family. After attending a “new” university and then doing my self-funded PGDL and LPC at Manchester Metropolitan I was offered one training contract at a small high street firm. On qualification, I joined a large commercial practice in Manchester as an NQ finance lawyer. At 5 years PQE I joined Trowers & Hamlins where I am a senior equity partner and head of our International Finance team. Since September 2021 I have been leading Trowers & Hamlins’ international business as International Managing Partner. Our International offices are presently in Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dubai, Oman and Malaysia and we have plans to expand our international network further in 2024. I also sit on Trowers & Hamlins’ Strategy Board which is tasked with setting and delivering on the firm’s strategic objectives across the UK and internationally. I have recruited and managed a large number of lawyers from diverse backgrounds. My professional expertise is in advising financial and licensed institutions on banking transactions, insolvencies, distressed assets, investigations and regulatory matters.

I am now more than 22 years post qualification experience and I am pleased that I decided to become a lawyer and not a teacher or an electrician (which was an option at one point). My personal experience has shown me that being educated in a school without any aspirational guidance, poor quality facilities that was located in an area with significant social issues is not the ideal preparation for a legal career but it does not mean that you cannot succeed and build the life you want for yourself. Hard work, an enquiring mind and even a comprehensive school education can prepare you for most things. Understanding how the system works, what employers are looking for and how to present yourself in the best possible way are all issues I have learned along the way. I am happy to discuss these and other matters with any aspiring lawyers.

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