Why did you become a lawyer?

The path was circuitous. I decided to apply to Oxford as I wanted a hockey Blue. Law seemed relatively interesting and seemed to offer more career possibilities than history, which had been my favourite subject. Careers advice was not quite as comprehensive as it is today and Allen & Overy (A&O) asked my college tutor for recommendations for prospective trainees. Having inter-viewed with and been accepted by A&O, I decided to give it a go. Although I did not spend any of my articles in the capital markets group, I was approached to join the group by Paul Monk. I subsequently found out that the reason was because I had been recommended to him by another partner for whom I had been doing some litigation work concerning peeling paint on his aged MG Roadster.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career?

Paul Monk mentored me for partnership and he taught me the art of delegation. Tony Herbert and Richard Sykes were also role models in my formative years as a young associate – Tony for his commercial approach, unflappable nature and client-handling skills and Richard for his total professionalism and economy. Philip Wood was also a major influence, simply for his immense legal knowledge and love of the law.

What is your proudest professional moment?

Being elected a partner of A&O.

Your worst day on the job?

Being a natural optimist, I tend not to recall bad moments, but I am saddened by the occasional pressure to lower my fees.

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

The continued proliferation of EU-conforming legislation.

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

Be prepared: it is challenging, demanding and requires considerable commitment and dedication. However, it is exciting and you will be practising with and against the best.

What is your strongest characteristic… and worst trait?

My no-nonsense approach.

How do you think your assistants view you?

Exacting, but fair and loyal.

What is better: leading a team or client work?

I became a lawyer to do transactions, and even as head of our capital markets group, at least half of my time has always been spent on transactional work. I see them both as equal, fundamental parts of my role.

You headed A&O's capital markets group for eight years – what is your legacy?

You'll have to ask the group.

What is your biggest professional regret?

Je ne regrette rien.

What is the worst bit of finance-related jargon you have ever heard – and did you smirk?

When, prior to the launch of an issue, investment bankers describe market conditions as 'interesting', 'challenging' or 'sub-optimal', I know that the deal is in trouble.

At such times, smirking is the last thing on my mind, as all the hard work may be for nothing. It is 'sub-optimal' for us if deals crater.

What is the best part of your job?

The team spirit. When you spend as much time in the office as we do, if you don't get on, you will not be happy. I am happy.

…and the worst?

The hours.

What is your biggest extravagance?

Although I am not a car enthusiast, as a young associate I always wanted a Jaguar XJS, and on becoming a partner I bought one, which I loved.

What would you do if you were not a lawyer?

I love sport but lack the ability to do it professionally. I always fancied being a Sixties and Seventies pop DJ.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years' time?

On the first tee somewhere warm and sunny and on my way to the 19th hole.

What is your favourite lawyer joke?

An airliner was having engine trouble and the pilot instructed the cabin crew to have the passengers take their seats and get prepared for an emergency landing. A few minutes later, the pilot asked the flight attendants if everyone was buckled in and ready. "All set back here, captain," came the reply, "except the lawyers are still going around passing out business cards."

What is your favourite cheese?

I don't do cheese, but I'm always willing to lead the international capital markets off-site disco in a rendition of YMCA.