Why did you choose Ropes & Gray to start your legal career?

The firm enables its lawyers to immediately get involved in engaging international work. We are encouraged to ask questions, take ownership of workstreams, and are provided with tools to build a personal brand at the outset of the training contract. This was clear to me during the vacation scheme experience with the firm, and I still feel supported to pursue my interests and shape the foundation of my legal career. The training model is an attractive offering for aspiring lawyers who enjoy practical learning and development. I’ve acted on complex transactions throughout my training contract and gained numerous insights into the strategic and commercial considerations that underpin both transactional and advisory practice.

How did you find the recruitment and selection process?

The assessment centre and the vacation scheme were tailored around interpersonal, practical, and written skills. I found the negotiation exercise at the assessment center enjoyable and was encouraged to explore all the firm’s practice groups during the vacation scheme. Crucially, the graduate recruitment team were open to providing one-to-one feedback after the assessment center and throughout the vacation scheme, which was very helpful and transparent.

How would you describe the firm’s culture?

The firm’s culture is collaborative and friendly. Constructive feedback is tailored, and developmental strides are noted and appreciated. The firm’s leadership communicates business objectives, and there is a clear focus on mentoring and getting junior lawyers involved in business development.

Tell us about a memorable matter you’ve worked on.

At the outset of my training contract, and during my seat in Private Equity, I acted on the proposed sale of a billion-dollar portfolio company, which operates in the healthcare sector and has worldwide reach. I took on a transaction management role, and assisted in managing local counsel workstreams across Europe, North and South America, and the Far East. It was great to experience the firm’s international network and capabilities in action, and to learn how a large transaction with lots of moving parts, and an imminent deadline, is managed effectively.

I also acted on a proposed sale of a luxury travel company. My experience was memorable, as it involved working directly with the company’s management to prepare the portfolio company for the buyer’s due diligence process. For example, I attended the company’s offices to assist the partner during a meeting with the board. This gave me direct insight into the practicalities associated with the sale of a portfolio company, and I learned firsthand how lawyers can guide and manage the process.

Tell us about a pro bono matter you’ve worked on.

As part of the Green Tech Legal Collaborative initiative, I advised an advanced materials manufacturing start-up on the signing of a memorandum of understanding with a Middle Eastern venture capital firm. I was encouraged to take a leading role on the matter and leverage my cultural background and understanding of the Middle East during our meetings with the CEO. It was great to provide legal support to a sustainability-focused business and engage directly with the founder to understand and help achieve certain business objectives.

What tips would you give a potential applicant?

Don’t be afraid to ask the why question. Try your best to understand the firm’s business model and confirm your understanding when interacting with the firm and its lawyers. Stay on top of geopolitics and economic developments, especially news that may impact our clients’ portfolio companies. Approach any experience with the firm as a learning opportunity and always be yourself.