Orrick London head Martin Bartlam on jet-setting deals, Yorkshire cheese and dancefloor moves

Why did you become a lawyer?

During my A-levels I wanted to become a pilot in the RAF but decided to continue with my education and study law. At university I decided to become a finance lawyer as finance is one of the more challenging and complicated areas of law.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career?

I will always remember the time I worked with Nick Wilson at Slaughter and May. As a young lawyer in his team I received inspirational guidance and enthusiasm while working with him.

What's your proudest professional moment?

Being elected managing partner in the London office of Orrick [Herrington & Sutcliffe]. I was flattered that the firm had confidence in my leadership skills and glad they took a risk on me as I was relatively young for the job.

… and worst day on the job?

As a banker I worked on a structured transaction for seven months, only to have it refused by the credit committee because they didn't like one of the bankers working in the team. I learnt it is more important to understand people and their motivations than the merits of a particular case.

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

Any lawyer that has used their technical skills to ensure that others have a better quality of life. I support pro bono initiatives such as micro-finance and admire lawyers that have the commitment to this.

What's your strongest characteristic… and worst trait?

I consider my strongest characteristic to be my leadership skills. I have always thought that I would be difficult to manage, as I have a clear idea of what I want and sometimes do not compromise.

What's the best part of your job?

Like most transactional lawyers, I love working with bright people and the negotiation of the deal, particularly when you achieve good terms for the clients.

How do you think assistants in your team see you?

Firm but fair – and they also tell me I'm a good dancer!

What's the worst corporate event you've ever attended?

The 2005 Orrick European Retreat at Chelsea FC. The food was terrible.

What most annoys you about the legal profession?

Many years ago I would have answered that the profession was not as diverse or inclusive. However, I am pleased to see that attitudes have changed. Today I am proud to lead a team of talented lawyers from diverse backgrounds.

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

If you want to take up a career in a large law firm, the firm should ideally reflect the kind of person you are. Law firms are all incredibly different in terms of how people relate to each other, the outside world and their clients. I cannot overestimate the importance of getting the cultural fit right. 'What are the people like?' is the most important question.

If you could change one thing about the profession, what would it be?

The current focus on league tables and pressure to keep improving partner profits creates a distortion in the way partner equity is structured and a lack of satisfaction in the job. It is undoubtedly important, but tables should not be a driving force.

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

Technical wizardry – there's nothing like working on a novel deal.

What misconceptions do junior lawyers have about the firm before they join?

US firms often have a 'sweatshop' misconception – at Orrick we encourage junior lawyers to have a good work-life balance.

Most memorable deal you ever have worked on and why?

My first deal as a newly-qualified lawyer at Slaughters. Over one week I had to travel to Melbourne, Australia, to finalise documents, agree opinions in Singapore and run the signing in Jakarta, Indonesia.

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

The development of regulation in the structured finance market.

Do you see yourself having a career outside law?

One day I'd love to be a writer and also indulge in my passion for design.

What would be your motto?

My team tell me it's 'building a strong platform'.

What's your favourite item of clothing?

My Revo sunglasses.

What's your favourite cheese?

Being a Yorkshire lad, it has to be Wensleydale!