Why did you become a lawyer?

By accident initially – my Mum couldn't work out what I would do with a history degree and suggested I do law. Being a good mummy's boy, I did what I was told! Newcastle University was fantastic, York Law School was pretty good and I have really enjoyed working in the various different firms I have been with, starting with a training contract at Stamp Jackson and Procter in Hull.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career?

Stuart Dench, who is a partner in the litigation firm Stewarts. Stuart was my first boss and he has always approached life and work with a great sense of humour, respect for his team and has put clients and opportunities to develop clients first. He is also an excellent lawyer.

What is your proudest professional moment?

Being elected into the partnership at Linklaters. Even though it is only the start of another chapter, it was nice to reflect over a nice dinner on an interesting seven years of life and work.

…and the worst day on the job?

I have worked at four law firms; by definition, I have left three. Each time it has been a difficult decision and very difficult to tell the individuals you like and respect that you are leaving – but each time, for the right reasons.

Aside from those at your own firm, which lawyer do you most admire and why?

Apart from Stuart Dench, Graham White. He is an excellent lawyer and a real client man. In addition, you cannot help but be impressed by how Matthew Layton and James Baird have built, sustained and developed the leading private equity practice at Clifford Chance, how Charlie Geffen has kept Ashurst at the top of the market and how Chris Hale has shaped Travers Smith's private equity offering.

What annoys you most about the profession?

Lawyers who are not closers.

How do you think your assistants view you?

Young upstart? I hope they know that I care about what we do for our clients and them.

How often do you wonder if you are in the wrong line of work?

Why would you wonder that, with midnight oil to burn, friends and family to let down and nights out, Sheffield Wednesday games and time with family to miss?

What advice would you give to young deal lawyers starting out?

Given the fact that the job is hard work and that hard work cannot be avoided, work with people you like and respect, and every two years check you are happy. And every two weeks, check with your partner that he/she is happy!

What will be the most significant market trend in terms of your practice area over the next 12 months?

The private equity market is evolving at a pace with the mid-market remaining fiercely competitive and the top end of the market continuing to stretch. The growth of a wider financial sponsor market including both traditional and non-traditional private equity clients is very significant and presents an interesting challenge for the market, and a real opportunity for law firms.

It is acknowledged that you were courted by several firms earlier this year. Aside from Linklaters' general M&A reputation, what made you decide to stay after several colleagues moved on?

The main motivations to stay were personal. I have really enjoyed and still really enjoy working at Linklaters, it has a fantastic culture which supports people and enables them to achieve their goals for the benefit of the wider firm and its clients. I also work with a large number of people who I respect and count as friends. Leaving would have been a very difficult decision.

How responsible do you personally feel for taking forward Linklaters' buy-out practice?

I do feel very responsible for the development of the practice and take it very personally (perhaps too personally) and feel I am a key part of the team driving the practice forward, but I am not alone. We have got a great team of corporate, banking, tax, projects and other specialist lawyers.

What is it like to be lauded as the City's hardest-working (now former) associate?

I have taken quite a lot of stick for that from my team who don't believe it and concerned colleagues who thought I was actually getting divorced!

What is your biggest extravagance?

Speak to William Hill.

What would you do if you weren't a lawyer?

I do like pub games (darts, cards, pool) so maybe something to do with one of these.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years' time?

Playing pub games.

What is your favourite cheese?

Dairylea. It's my little lad Charlie's favourite, and if it's good enough for him, it's good enough for me.

Dealmaker returns in two weeks.