Our People

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

I began my legal journey at an international law firm in London, where I trained and qualified. After spending a decade there, I joined Clifford Chance as a Senior Associate. I felt confident in joining the firm because I already knew and had great rapport with several members of the team. Five years on, I am happy to say I still enjoy working with my colleagues.

What attracted you to Clifford Chance?

The firm's antitrust team has some of the most high-profile clients and complex matters, and the Tech Group is second to none in the market. I also knew some of the lawyers from previous deals.

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

I felt right at home from day one. I was assigned a buddy who was always there to answer my questions - big or small - and helped me settle. Everyone was incredibly friendly, sociable, and welcoming, which made my integration into the team effortless.

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

I have had the benefit of having both formal and informal mentors who have guided and advised me throughout the years. Each person added a different perspective, but what they all had in common was that they cared about my development and career progression.

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

There are many examples! In a recent high-profile acquisition involving a major international airport, we worked on the project for an extended period across multiple offices and practice groups. Although the process was sometimes demanding and challenging, our team collaborated to achieve the desired objectives.

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

Clifford Chance fosters knowledge sharing within and amongst different teams, with regular cross-practice training sessions for our lawyers as well as for our clients. These are always very useful in seeing issues more holistically.

What professional development opportunities have you found at Clifford Chance that have helped you grow since joining the firm?

Clifford Chance is very entrepreneurial and supportive of Associate-centric initiatives. I had the idea of organising an Associates-only networking event, which was fully supported by the firm and has become a much-anticipated annual event, which is now in its third year.

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

I am a Lead Mentor in the Corporate Mentoring Scheme and have developed a close relationship with several junior lawyers whom I mentor. I enjoy seeing junior lawyers find their "niche" (e.g. sector or industry) that they are excited to pursue.