This is Allens

I’ve always been drawn to employment law. From the very beginning of my career, it was the area that felt like the right fit – a space where I could work on complex legal issues while staying connected to the human side of business. I love that it allows me to build deep relationships with clients and colleagues, and to support clients through challenging and sensitive matters.

I joined Allens nearly ten years ago, and I’ve never looked back. I’ve had three rounds of parental leave during that time, and I’ve seen first-hand how the firm is supportive, flexible, and attuned to what staff need to thrive.

When I started out my legal career, I didn’t see partnership as something that was compatible with the kind of life I wanted. I knew I wanted a family, and I didn’t see many examples of women doing both. But when I joined Allens, I saw partners like Belinda Thompson and Rosannah Healy – women who were leading at the highest level while also raising families. That visibility made a huge difference. It showed me that it was possible at Allens, and that I didn’t have to choose between the work I love and the life I wanted.

Now, I try to be that example for others. I want the juniors at Allens – women and men – to see that it’s doable. It’s not always easy, but it is possible. And I think that’s part of what makes Allens such a special place: we’re not just focused on technical excellence, but on building a culture where people can grow, contribute and be supported.

Clients come to us because they trust us – not just to get the law right, but to partner with them through difficult, high-stakes situations. Many of the matters I work on involve crisis management, sensitive investigations or complex workplace issues, and our clients need to know they’re in safe hands. That we understand their business, their people, and how to navigate the legal, commercial and human dimensions of the issue.

What I’ve seen over the years is a shift in what clients expect from their advisers. It’s no longer enough to be a good lawyer – you need to partner with them and demonstrate the value that you bring. That’s true for our people too. The next generation of lawyers want to work with leaders who will support their development and who are committed to building inclusive, high-performing teams.

What gives me the biggest kick at work is that sense of partnership – with clients and with my team. I love being part of a group of people working together to solve a tough problem and to support our clients. That sense of shared purpose, and the trust that underpins it, is what makes this work so meaningful to me.