Former Clifford Chance rising star Ian Bagshaw is a partner in Linklaters' private equity team

Why did you become a lawyer?

I wasn't good enough at football. Also, I thought that Arnie Bernstein's lifestyle on LA Law was attractive! How wrong can you be?!

Who has been the biggest influence on your career?

Clients. Particularly the team at Candover who have shaped my thinking in terms of client service provision and putting the client at the centre of everything I do.

What's your proudest professional moment?

Qualification.

…and worst day on the job?

Having borrowed my then girlfriend's car to drive to a client meeting and writing it off in an accident, before finding that because it was on work business I was uninsured… ouch!

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

From a legal perspective I have been incredibly fortunate to have worked with exceptional partners from an early stage of my career at Eversheds (Ian Richardson, David Gray) through to carrying Squire Signy's bags at Clifford Chance for the best part of seven years!

What's your strongest characteristic… and worst trait?

Hunger and determination. My worst trait is trying to cram too much into an already congested diary.

How do you think assistants in your team view you?

You'll need to ask them for a truthful answer. 'Works hard/plays hard' is the general response.

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

It's a marathon not a sprint, so enjoy the different challenges all the way through the various stages of your career.

What's the best part of your job?

Working with entrepreneurial clients.

Clifford Chance is so well known for private equity – were people surprised that you decided to join another firm?

'Bemused' was the quote. Once the logic was explained, though, people understood the rationale for the move and the unique and unmissable opportunity that Linklaters offers me.

What most annoys you about the legal profession?

People who see it as a profession rather than a provision of legal services.

What's your strongest card — technical wizardry or smooth client skills? (you can only choose one)

Client skills, as in my practice you always need to demystify wizardry.

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

Growth – from a Linklaters private equity perspective.

Has winning the Young Lawyer of the Year Award gone to Richard Youle's head – there is talk he's become unbearable?

'Publicity' Youle has always had a swagger, but to date it's not unbearable given that he has the ability to laugh as much at himself as anyone I know – plus the fact that he continues his meteoric rise in building up an exceptional practice.

Why should aspiring lawyers join your firm?

It is fun, ambitious, client-focused, international in outlook and growing. What more do you need?

Who is Linklaters' funniest partner?

A few candidates are emerging. From the perspective of the ability to lead you astray, the honour would go to Chris Kelly so far…

What would you do if you hadn't become a lawyer?

This always changes but would involve me running my own business. I've just not identified the niche yet.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years' time?

Having fun and working hard in a leading international private equity team with great clients.

What's your favourite item of clothing?

At the moment, my cycling shorts, as I am doing the Etape stage of the Tour de France.

What would you have written on your tombstone?

Didn't die wondering…

What's your favourite cheese?

La vache qui rit.

Dealmaker returns in two weeks.