Tell us about your educational and/or career journey since you graduated from Brunel?
I attended Law School from 1979-80 and then started Articles (now Training) with Baileys Shaw & Gillett. I worked in various law firms including Rooks Rider and Gowling WLG, and moved the whole team to Forsters LLP in 2017. I am specialised in private wealth advice to some of the wealthiest families in the world, with a focus on Asian families. I travel to Asia every month, and was named in ‘Who's Who’ as one of the top ten lawyers advising on private wealth in the world.
What does a typical day at work involve for you?
Checking e-mails from Asia, which need immediate responses to be within their same business day. Normally calls or videos with Asia. Then various meetings with clients, supervising a large team of lawyers, and several large tasks which include tax advice, trust advice, estate planning advice, international probate and family governance, which is business succession planning for very wealthy families to ensure business continuity. Regular international travel at least twice a month, and regular lecturing at conferences.
What’s been the highlight of your career journey so far?
Educating very capable young lawyers, who clearly have a great career ahead of them.
How would you say your Brunel experience has helped you to get where you are today?
The good broad degree and sandwich experience was very valuable in giving me contacts and deciding on a career in law.
Why did you choose to study at Brunel and why would you recommend Brunel to others?
Sandwich and practical course, which I very much enjoyed.
What is your best memory of studying here?
Getting a first for my dissertation on industrial tribunals.
If you could give one piece of advice to current Brunel students, what would that be?
Make sure you speak to experienced lawyers before you decide on a career in law. Then do not try to make up your mind into which area to specialise until you have nearly completed your training contract.
What would be your top tip or key advice for new graduates as they begin their career journey after leaving Brunel?
Get as much experience of the possible opportunities open to you to learn about a career before committing yourself.
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