This is Allens

My path to law has been somewhat unconventional. I began my career as a classical musician and have a Master's degree in performance cello. I also spent several years working for an orchestra in arts management. It was a role that took me behind-the-scenes at some of the world's best concert halls. In addition to instilling in me a love of great symphonies and road cases, these experiences, both as a performer and arts manager, gave me a deep appreciation for collaboration, discipline, high pressure environments and high quality performance – skills that translate well into legal practice.

I came to law in search of a new challenge. I was fortunate to get a summer clerkship at Allens and found that I loved the work, the firm and the people. I also became a parent when I was a grad, so balancing the demands of work and home life has shaped my career since the very beginning.

Like music, law demands focus, resilience and the ability to be across the detail, while holding onto the bigger picture. It's also about working together as a team and driving towards the same goal. Whether helping clients navigate a crisis or leading a team, I always try to remain calm, composed, and collaborative, which helps navigate the competing demands and find a solution.

For me, exceptional client service goes beyond just legal advice. It means helping clients see around corners, providing clarity, support and vision in high-pressure, high stakes moments and staying deeply attuned to their business and values. What's right for one client, won’t necessarily be right for another.

I've been fortunate to be mentored by some remarkable people throughout my career. Their guidance and feedback from my earliest days at the firm has had a profound impact on me and my professional development. I continue to value strategic input from both clients and my colleagues. I also see it as my responsibility to foster that same growth in others, so that my team continually improves, thrives and reaches their potential.

Leadership, to me, means not just delivering exceptional outcomes, but it's also about dissipating other people's stress, both for our clients and my team – being calm in the face of challenges and helping others solve problems. Increasingly too, lawyers are looking up to see if those in senior roles are living the sort of life they want to live. I hope to show that it's possible to build a great career while also being present for your family and friends.

One of the things I value most about this role is the people. From the grads to the partners to our clients, everyone plays a vital role. I love piecing together complex puzzles and finding creative solutions to novel and challenging issues. The collaborative nature of our work, the quality of our clients, and the level of challenge and commercial insight they bring, enhances the quality of our advice immeasurably and makes the work deeply satisfying.