What is your fondest memory of your time at Eversheds Sutherland?
There are lots of brilliant memories – I had great experiences acting for diverse clients in cases in the Court of Appeal and also significant regulatory investigations. But what stands out the most is the time that I spent contributing to building the commercial litigation and disputes team in the UK – I have great memories of interviewing potential trainees and recruiting into the team across our UK offices. That includes some great work social events – including white water rafting!
How would you describe the in-house transition after leaving private practice and do you have any advice for people thinking of going in-house?
I found the move quite daunting – in particular, there was a steep learning curve as I was Company Secretary for all group companies – including a Luxembourg listing – so there was lots to learn! Don’t be afraid to ask for help (generally good advice in any new role!) – be confident in what your areas of expertise are and prepared to admit where you just don’t know. Also, be prepared to be a generalist – I thought I was a generalist commercial litigator but the breadth of the in-house smorgasbord of issues that cross your desk is quite breath-taking!
How has the firm changed in your perspective during the 10-year gap / are there any noticeable differences in the culture?
I was expecting change – it was almost 11 years that I was away – but I think I’d underestimated the impact of both the transatlantic merger (and the massive increase in the number of lawyers) and the after-effect of COVID. Having everyone working remotely has massively helped to break down silos and achieve some of the stuff that we used to have to work quite hard at – the one-team ethos and sharing knowledge between offices and teams – that’s all much easier now.
What aspects of the firm have remained consistent over the decade?
The people definitely. Having worked in another law firm before I joined Eversheds the first time around, and also seen the way that our panel firms operated when I was inhouse, there is definitely something about the culture of Eversheds Sutherland which I think is very special. People genuinely “go the extra mile” for clients and to support colleagues.
What aspects of the firm made you feel ‘at home’ upon your return?
A really warm welcome from colleagues in Cardiff which meant what could have been quite an awkward re-arrival was made very easy! And after the announcement of my return appeared on our intranet, I was blown away at the number of messages I received from colleagues I’d worked with before in other offices, who took the time to welcome me back!
What motivated you to return to our firm after a decade?
The opportunity to work with a great bunch of people, for a client list that most firms would kill for! And to focus on the Water sector which I find fascinating!
What is something funny/interesting that people don’t know about you?
My husband and I are slightly obsessed with Dalmatian dogs – we’ve just taken on a Dalmatian puppy that is literally running circles around us! At the least it should improve my fitness levels.