Paul Pickering

I discovered law during my university degree, as part of a broader degree that allowed for specialism in this area. As part of that degree, I gained my first experience of working in a solicitors’ firm in 1993 and enjoyed the challenge of applying legal principles to help people with a variety of problems.

I primarily trained in general dispute resolution and continued in that field for 10 years after I qualified, developing skills in problem-solving and risk management that are vital in my work today.

The firm has always had a genuine commitment to meeting the highest professional standards and in 2008 a specialist role was created to ensure we continued to meet that objective in an increasingly challenging environment. I was keen to lead that project and embed a culture of compliance that has benefited both the firm and our clients.

What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?

The work can create a variety of challenges every day, with opportunities to learn something new and work with different people across the firm.

Where is your favourite place to holiday in England or Wales?

I love to just walk around big cities and explore hidden gems. London is one of my favourite places, as long as I can stay above ground.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I volunteer as a marshal at motor racing events most weekends of the season. Although it’s a hobby, waving flags at drivers to tell them what to do does sound a bit like my day job.