Our People

Can you tell us about your background and what led you to join Clifford Chance as an associate?

My career path into law is slightly unconventional. I studied Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience at the University of Nottingham but realised towards the end of my degree that working in a laboratory was not well-suited for me. I was drawn to a role that provided greater variety and the opportunity to work with different people and businesses. After gaining experience at a city-based law firm, I was certain that a career in law was the right choice. Eventually, I qualified as a specialist in Intellectual Property.

What led you to specialise in your practice area, and what keeps you passionate?

The best part about my 'origin story' is that my initial degree has not gone to waste as I regularly advise market-leading clients operating in the life sciences and TMT sectors. I joined Clifford Chance because I knew I would be provided with the rare opportunity to act for a range of market-leading clients operating across different industries and jurisdictions with incredible support to help me develop my career.

What attracted you to Clifford Chance compared to other firms?

As a lawyer, it's important to choose the right practice and law firm that helps you realise your ambitions. I wanted to work for a firm that represented market-leading clients across different sectors but also to be part of a firm that encouraged and supported its lawyers to fulfil their potential.

Clifford Chance's impressive client list means we handle high-impact transactions and cases globally. My practice involves working with colleagues from across the Firm's different offices on cross-border and cross-practice matters. The firm's unparalleled support and training to its lawyers, including via the Clifford Chance learning and development portal 'Academy', offers training not just in legal skills but also in soft skills, different industries, new technologies and emerging trends, helping us better understand our clients and their challenges.

How did Clifford Chance support your integration into the firm’s culture and building of relationships with colleagues?

As a lateral hire, I initially had concerns about starting fresh and adapting to the culture of the Firm. But these were quickly dispelled. The Firm places a strong emphasis on inclusivity and collaboration, especially across practices and offices, which is crucial for complex cross-border work. In my first few months, I was introduced to lawyers from across the Firm. I was assigned a 'buddy' and had regular check-ins with our Talent team to support my integration. Building relationships was easy, thanks to regular social events, secondments and engagement with different offices, which is great for networking.

What role has mentorship played in your development at Clifford Chance?

As a Senior Associate, I am responsible for mentoring Junior Associates and Trainees in my team. During your formative years, it's important to have reliable guidance and advice for day-to-day technical work and for the development of your practice and career path.

Fortunately, I have had two excellent mentors within my team, both of whom interviewed me and influenced my decision to join Clifford Chance. Their continued support has helped me develop my practice and commercial legal skills with regular meetings to discuss my progress against set development objectives.

Can you share an example of a time when collaboration at Clifford Chance led to a successful outcome on a project or deal?

I recently worked as part of a cross-border team to advise a client in connection with the development and launch of the Esports World Cup. This complex and time-sensitive project required expertise across practice areas, including intellectual property and corporate transactions, and collaboration between our London and Riyadh offices. I am proud to work on this deal as it showcases how we act as "one firm".

What collaborative practices at Clifford Chance have positively impacted your ability to develop new skills or enhance your expertise?

Clifford Chance has several industry focus groups open to all lawyers with a special interest in areas such as sports, life sciences, healthcare, and semiconductors. These groups foster collaboration on business development opportunities, knowledge sharing, and discussions on recent cases or legal updates across practice areas and offices. It is a great way to meet colleagues and share insights. Additionally, we are encouraged to collaborate across practices and offices to identify cross-selling opportunities and ensure that the client receives the best advice.

In what ways have you been able to contribute to the mentorship and development of more junior lawyers at Clifford Chance?

When I was a junior lawyer, I appreciated Senior Associates who took time to help me develop my legal skills and explain technical concepts. Now, I am fortunate to pay it forward by providing regular training sessions to Trainees and junior lawyers on a range of topics such as legal and drafting skills, changes in the law or the industries our clients operate in and specific matters they may be working on. I will also mentor junior associates within our team to help them grow their practice, identify sectors that they want to be involved in and develop their network both internally and externally.

I'm proud to be a mentor and find it rewarding to watch junior lawyers grow into the next generation of rising stars within the Firm.