Ewan Robertson, Scotland's answer to Nick Hornby, is one of the rising corporate stars at Dundas & Wilson

Why did you become a lawyer?

I really wanted to do English at university and be a journalist or a writer, but then someone warned me that I would probably end up a teacher. A couple of mates were doing law and here I am 20 years later.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career?

Within the law, a couple of partners at Dundas & Wilson, Donald Cumming and Mike Polson, have been hugely supportive. Outside the law, coming from a Fife mining background instilled a strong work ethic in me so it would be my father who made me realise there is no substitute for hard work.

What's your proudest professional moment?

I'd probably have to say closing the £3.2bn acquisition of two gas distribution networks for Scotia Gas Networks after not far off 18 months' work. That or mastering our IT system.

…and worst day on the job?

When I was based in Edinburgh, we were closing a deal for a California-based client. It had to be done by 31 December, and after a hard slog the clients were delighted to close the deal at 6pm that day – but that was US Pacific time! To this day, I remember sitting depressed in our Edinburgh office watching the Hogmanay festivities and revelry and everyone else enjoying themselves in Princes Street. Getting a BlackBerry comes a close second, though…

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

The genuine answer is there are many good lawyers out there, but the ones I admire the most are those that always come across as calm and in control – even under intense pressure. One of the best examples of that, for me, is Ian Manson, head of legal at Scottish and Southern Energy.

What's your strongest characteristic… and worst trait?

Strongest: probably that I'm people and relationship-focused. Worst trait: a tendency to say "ping us an email".

How do you think assistants in your team view you?

Hopefully as a team player, but more likely as a music-obsessed, caffeine junkie trying to relive his youth.

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

You can be the brightest and most technically-gifted lawyer ever, but if you're not keen and enthusiastic you won't make the best of your career.

What's the best part of your job?

Starbucks.

What most annoys you about the legal profession?

Arrogance and an old-school mentality – there's much less of it now, but it still exists.

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

Let's just say I know my strengths and limitations – ask my colleagues at Dundas.

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

There has been a lot of speculation that M&A activity will dry up. Personally, I don't think it will, but it may slow down – it's going to be interesting.

What is the most common misconception trainees have about the firm before they arrive?

That our London office is full of Scots.

Why should aspiring lawyers join your firm?

There are plenty of opportunities to be a small cog in a big wheel somewhere else, but I think it's far more exciting to be an integral part of something growing, dynamic and hungry.

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

Have you ever read High Fidelity by Nick Hornby? Yes, I'm that sad about music.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years' time?

Starbucks… with a loyalty card.

What's your favourite item of clothing?

Currently, it alternates between a black velvet jacket and my Oakley hoodie – not a pinstripe (or, if I can get away with it, a tie) in sight.

What would you put on your tombstone?

"But for the law, here would lie the world's greatest…"

What's your favourite cheese?

Shaun of the Dead.

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