My career journey to the firm

I started at the firm as a trainee solicitor in March 2022. I was first drawn to Slaughter and May because it takes a very different approach to its peers, for example, using a network of relationship firms rather than numerous international offices, and using a multi-specialist approach. I was particularly interested in the multi-specialist approach, as my undergraduate degree in Natural Sciences covered a range of subjects, so I was seeking a similar breath and variety in my legal training and career.

During my training contract, I completed seats in Disputes and Investigations, Financing, Technology, Digital, Data and IP, and a six-month secondment to the Corporate M&A team at a relationship firm in Copenhagen, Denmark. I enjoyed all my trainee seats, but decided to qualify into Financing, as I liked the diversity and pace of work and found myself suited to the transactional style of working.

My day-to-day

My days are incredibly varied. The multi-specialist approach means I’m always working on a wide range of matters, from acquisition financing to project financing, as well as structured financing. This can be a challenge at times, but it means my days are always interesting and that I’ve gained a range of knowledge and experience I otherwise wouldn’t have. 

I have been lucky enough to go on two secondments during my time at the firm so far. My trainee secondment was an incredible opportunity and allowed me to experience life as a lawyer abroad and at a different firm. It was also a great way to prepare for life post-qualification, as I was given more responsibility and was tasked with managing transactions with slightly less supervision. 

The second was an internal secondment to the firm’s Sustainability and Climate Change Hub, which advises clients on environmental, social and governance matters. This experience gave me a different perspective of the work we do as a firm and allowed me to develop different skills to those I would typically use in Financing. I also got to see the cross-over between ESG and Financing, for example, through our carbon markets and sustainable financing work.

My days are incredibly varied. The multi-specialist approach means I’m always working on a wide range of matters…this can be a challenge at times, but it means my days are always interesting and that I’ve gained a range of knowledge and experience I otherwise wouldn’t have.

Independence of thought in action

All of the firm’s values contribute to making it a great place to work, but it’s ‘independence of thought’ that resonates most with me, particularly because of my STEM background. It is important to me to work in an environment where my perspective is valued and encouraged, and in turn where I am able to work with people who approach things differently to me - which is what I have definitely found here. I think this environment fosters the most interesting and creative ideas, which is key when you are having to problem solve and manage issues that perhaps haven’t been considered before. It also means I am constantly learning things from the people around me!  

My advice to candidates

Before joining, I hadn’t realised just how generous people at every level are with their time. I really enjoy the people I work with, who are incredibly knowledgeable and are always happy to give up their time when I have questions. My advice is to make the most of that by asking questions and learning from those around you, whether you are at the firm on a work experience scheme, starting as a trainee solicitor, or joining from another firm. People are genuinely happy to chat!