A few short months into my training contract at Howard Kennedy, my first impressions are…
First impression of the firm and its values?
One of the firm's key values is approachability. I've found that this has been true of all the staff I’ve worked with up to and including partners. The firm is also commercially focused, with a great sector approach to going to market.
First impression of the firm's culture?
I was fortunate to have enjoyed working with friendly and altruistic people in my previous career. I’m very pleased to say the firm is also very friendly, supportive and professional, with a really committed approach to the local community and pro bono engagement.
First impression of your seat?
Commercial Development offers a really varied first seat and I have worked on a range of different matters, including meeting with clients and assisting with completions. It’s been helpful to observe a range of different client projects and their varied commercial objectives.
First impression your supervision and the mentor scheme?
The culture is really supportive at Howard Kennedy and I have found that supervisors are very approachable and keen to help me develop. I have already had a meeting with my mentor and I found it really valuable to be able to talk to a senior lawyer in an informal setting.
First impression of the social side of the firm?
The firm has a Social Committee who organise a range of events - we had bingo with a twist only last week! I have helped to organise some team drinks recently and it’s also common for trainees to get together on Fridays to go out in London Bridge.
First impression of the local area?
London Bridge is really vibrant and provides easy access to the City. The George is a great local pub that was frequented by Charles Dickens and dates back to 1543! Hay's Galleria has got a wide range of places to grab lunch & we’re also very close to Borough Market.
How Owen became a trainee
Why did you decide to pursue a career in law?
I had enjoyed a previous career in law enforcement and found that I enjoyed the legally technical areas of police work, having trained as a financial investigator. I was keen to develop and move into a commercial role with the opportunity to do intellectually challenging work.
What career path did you take to get to where you are?
I worked as a police officer for thirteen years, answering emergency calls for approximately five years then working as a detective in Brixton and specialist investigations. I enjoyed the technical cases, such as complex fraud, and decided to study the GDL part-time.
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