Our People
Zeynep Ayata Aydogan
Associate, Antitrust
"What I enjoy most is working with clients who are shaping their industries. The legal issues we advise on often lie at the heart of strategic decision-making and have a real-world impact beyond a single transaction or case."
I am an Associate in the Antitrust practice at Clifford Chance. I advise on a broad range of matters, including both behavioural and transactional issues. I joined the firm in October 2024 and have been practising as an antitrust lawyer since 2018. I hold master's degrees in law from the University of Oxford and Harvard Law School, where I focused on antitrust law and tech regulation. I have always been keen on matters that sit at the intersection of legal, commercial, and policy transformation, and I am very pleased to be pursuing this at Clifford Chance.
What led you to specialise in your practice area and what keeps you passionate?
My interest in competition law stemmed from an early fascination with economics, specifically, how markets function, how market power is exercised, and how these factors shape consumer welfare. This interest evolved into a passion for competition law during a summer course at the London School of Economics, ultimately leading to a career in the field. What keeps me engaged is the rapid pace of change, particularly in digital markets, where legal frameworks are constantly being tested. I enjoy the complexity and, even more so, the opportunity to help clients navigate uncharted territory.
How did your initial assumptions about being a lawyer change as your career progressed?
Initially, I believed that being a good lawyer was primarily about mastering the law and arguing persuasively. However, I have realised that it's equally important to understand the client's business, motivations, and industry, and to align legal advice accordingly. Additionally, navigating the dynamics between different stakeholders, such as regulators, co-counsel, and other parties involved, is crucial.
How would you describe the culture at the firm?
The culture at Clifford Chance is deeply human. People are welcoming, kind, generous with their time, and genuinely invested in your growth. Collaboration is integral to how we work and support one another.
What key skills have you developed so far?
It is the ability to communicate concisely, always keeping the client's priorities at the forefront. I have also become more attuned to the subtleties of cross-cultural working styles. These skills have helped me simplify and bring clarity to complex issues.
What aspect of the work brings you the greatest satisfaction?
What I enjoy most is working with clients who are shaping their industries and, in many cases, changing the way people live and engage with technology. The legal issues we advise on often lie at the heart of strategic decision-making and have a real-world impact beyond a single transaction or case. Being part of that process is deeply satisfying.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career at Clifford Chance?
Be a great team player. Clifford Chance offers an exceptional platform for growth. The culture is collaborative, grounded in a shared commitment to development, support, and mutual respect. Embrace that environment, and you'll gain not just opportunities, but also colleagues who are invested in your success. Above all, stay curious about the work as there's so much to learn and explore here.
What has been your most exciting project so far?
A particularly rewarding experience was working on a tech-related regulatory litigation case involving a novel issue with cross-border implications. The matter was high-stakes and required a diligent legal strategy. I enjoyed the challenge of crafting a clear and compelling response, and it was gratifying to see the outcome align with our efforts. It was the kind of case where you feel the direct impact of your work and how it can help shape emerging legal approaches.
What is the best career advice you have received?
One of the best pieces of advice I have received from mentors who are leading lawyers in their fields is the importance of developing long-term relationships with clients and understanding their work and communication styles. This has shaped my approach by emphasising the importance of being a trusted and reliable partner through consistent, positive interactions.
How do you maintain a work-life balance?
There’s a shared understanding at the firm that we all have lives outside of work, and colleagues make an effort to create space for that. Personally, I try to stay intentional with my time and protect energy for the things that restore focus and perspective.