Trainee - Sinclair Gibson LLP - London
(2024-09)
Significant experience in HNW/UHNW client stewardship including: refinement of advisory skills and drafting abilities; practical case management and developing familiarity with appropriate tools; detail orientated work and complex workflow management, including working across teams with professionals of all levels, gained in the following seats:
- Private Client - HNW/UHNW estate planning focused seat, including advising (under supervision) on and drafting wills, LPAs, deeds and various trust documents
- Expanding research skills to provide effective support to complex tax planning and structure management, including proactive and reactive measures to Budget provisions
- Family - HNW/UHNW matrimonial matters, including divorce, pre- and post-nuptial agreements
- Extensive forensic data analysis across complex matters, commended by counsel and instrumental in securing generous settlement for the firm's clients
- Drawing on underlying tax awareness and previous commercial experience to assist in creating bespoke settlement agreements
- Probate - HNW/UHNW estate administration including complex cross-border elements and liaison with foreign jurisdiction advisors/lawyers to ensure efficient and timely progress
- Key responsibility for document review and drafting/review of initial IHT and probate applications
- Litigation - Contentious trusts focussed including VTA applications and Court of Protection work
- Key role in managing case deadlines and document reviews, including initial drafting of application documents and bundle management for contemplated/ongoing litigation
Paralegal - Stephen Thomas Law - Kent
(2019-04 - 2019-09)
- Supporting solicitor advocate across ongoing litigation matters, in preparing documents, noting interviews and organising files
- Undertook legal research for licensing and DVSA matters, as well as preparing analyses of opposition responses to ongoing litigation matters
Immigration Advisor - Immigration Law Solutions - Leeds
(2016-08 - 2017-09)
- Overall responsibility for completing applications and collating relevant evidence in a timely fashion
- Principal responsibility for French-speaking clients, building on my year's legal study in Paris
- Conducted confidential client interviews under supervision situation and options, conducted confidential client interviews
- Ensured clients were fully informed at each stage of the process, including engagement, throughout the application process and billing
- Discussed ongoing applications with relevant Home Office representatives and other legal professionals
Office Manager - Direct Mediation Services - Leeds
(2017-08 - 2018-07)
- Drafting compliance documentation and processes including data security, non-discrimination and file management; generation of client-facing policies in clear, coherent language
- Sole responsibility for legal aid contract application, ensuring accuracy and adherence to deadlines and standards
Dispensing Manager - Dr T J Buckingham Ltd - Ilkley
(2005-06 - 2024-09)
Optometrist practice
- Public facing role as Dispensing Optician advising on Frames, Lenses, and Contact Lenses
- Financial management of ophthalmic practice, preparation of annual accounts and balance sheet for submission to company accountants
- Management role directing staff, financial planning, stock purchase, improving patient service and handling confidential files
- Overall responsibility for process refinement, company advertising, and communication; held important role in major re-design of business premises
- Management of commercial property portfolio, including lease negotiation liaising with solicitors, surveyors and commercial agents, including preparation of Land registry compliant plans
Head of Operations - Buckingham Mercantile Ltd - Leeds
(2018-09 - 2024-09)
- Managed development and launch of new commercial venture, including completion of compliance requirements, establishment of financial structure and accounts
- Advised on acquisition of commercial premises and terms for lease
- Project-managed conversion and redevelopment of the building to align with brand presentation, including contractor management
- Liaised with stakeholders, including specification and budgeting with investors, planning and building regulations concerns with contractors, and future managing agents
Set Design/Graphic Design - Broken Glass Ltd - London/Cambridge
(2008-04 - 2019-12)
- Overall physical and graphic design responsibility for all productions, including co-operation on and delegation of construction to a small team
- Incorporation of feedback from playwright, director and cast to drive process and delivery
- Adapting to changing venue requirements and deadlines, improving ease of transport and on-site set-up in construction methods
- Overcoming unexpected constraints of site/transport and deadline challenges
