Why did you become a lawyer?

An enjoyment of working with words and some absurd notion of being able to combine that with long lunches and afternoons on the golf course. I have no idea where I got the latter from but it didn't survive university!

Who has been the biggest influence on your career?

I wouldn't say there has been any one person but I have tried to learn from the best bits of many of those with whom I have worked over the years.

What is your proudest professional moment?

Being made a partner at Simmons & Simmons.

… and worst day on the job?

As a new articled clerk due to accompany the two then most senior corporate partners to a client board meeting to consider a large hostile takeover, having to walk into the board meeting over an hour late having overslept and missed my train. That wasn't good.

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

Bill Knight, my former senior partner, who has built a successful career as well after private practice as within it.

What's your strongest characteristic…and worst trait?

I am a good listener and anticipate issues well. In terms of worst trait, my team might point out I can be just a little grumpy at times.

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

Focus on developing your technical skills and getting as much experience as possible, and never ever think you have stopped learning.

What's the best part of your job?

The adrenaline rush in the closing stages of a particularly frantic deal and the sense of achievement in getting it done.

What most annoys you about the legal profession?

Lawyers whose fear of covering their backs causes them to lose sight of their clients' objectives.

What's the toughest ethical/moral dilemma your job has ever presented you with?

As a Spurs fan, whether or not to approve the purchase of some debenture seats for client entertaining at Arsenal's new stadium was pretty tough.

What's your strongest card – technical wizardry or smooth client skills?

The latter, though smooth may be pushing it.

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

Getting soaked seeing England lose 1-0 to Germany in the last World Cup qualifying international at the old Wembley was pretty miserable.

Who is Simmons' funniest partner and why?

Jean-Pierre van Leeuwe, who heads our corporate practice in the Netherlands is always quick to crack a joke and believes in leading with a smile on his face.

Any bizarre hobbies?

No (though some would say that following Spurs is increasingly falling into this category).

Most memorable deal you have ever worked on and why?

Telefonica's acquisition of 02. Apart from the obvious size and profile of the deal it was the first major transaction in Europe for a relatively new client, which helped to cement the relationship and was a reminder of the credentials of the developing team here to advise on the very largest transactions.

What is the daftest bit of corporate jargon you've heard (and did you smirk)?

Having experienced a few, I did smirk at the concept of having a 'Salmon Day' i.e. spending an entire day swimming upstream only to get screwed and die in the end.

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

The need to spend more time travelling.

Do you see yourself having a career outside law?

At some point, although I have a way to go before then.

What is your favourite item of clothing?

My 1970s Spurs shirt.

What is your favourite cheese?

Cake.