The Slaughter and May Hong Kong partner on time zone troubles, Prada and why lawyers aren't boring

Why did you become a lawyer? I wanted to help people solve their problems by applying specialised knowledge at a high level of competence. I see this is as a creative process.

What, or who, has influenced you the most during your career? My clients – I learn from them and take care of them at the same time. And my family – their support and understanding allows me to shape my career in a unique way.

What has been your proudest professional moment? Every listing ceremony at the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Each one I've worked on feels like delivering a baby.

…and worst day on the job? When investors' demand for half of a $3.5bn (£2.2bn) global offering evaporated in the middle of roadshows. We had these surreal telephone conferences with the underwriters every night at 3am because of time zone differences, trying to work out how best to salvage the deal.

Aside from your own firm, which lawyer do you most admire in Asia, and why? Xiao Wei, one of the founders of the Chinese firm Jun He Law Offices, for setting up one of the first independent law firms in China.

What's your strongest characteristic… and worst trait? In each case, being a perfectionist. This drives me to seek to provide legal advice of the highest quality, but also results in a harder life for people working around me.

What annoys you most about the legal profession? The perception that lawyers are boring – they can be very interesting and witty. Many I know have wonderful hobbies outside work – ranging from flying private jets to composing songs for TV programmes and pop artists – which also make them better lawyers.

What advice would you give to young lawyers considering a stint abroad? Go for it – it opens your mind. Asia is an exciting world to be in these days – the cultural difference is something that one has to be immersed in before one can fully appreciate it.

What's your strongest characteristic: technical wizardry or smooth client skills? (You can only pick one) I aim for smooth client skills as this is a service industry (and on the basis that technical wizardry should already be the starting point).

Why did you decide to move to Asia? I was born and brought up in Hong Kong, and decided to move back here after studying and working in the UK because this is where I feel I can best serve my clients.  Asia's development has been gathering pace – it has immense potential for anyone wanting to do something with their career.

What are the best and worst things about working as a lawyer in the region? The best thing is the 24/7 efficiency with which everything is done – which also is the worst thing when the same is expected of lawyers. There is generally less of a difference between weekdays and weekends when it comes to work, and, when it comes to China, be prepared to work on Christmas Day, which is not a public holiday (although you do get special golden weeks off).

How long do you see yourself staying in Asia? I shall be staying in Asia for good, unless a change in client demand arises in future.

Do you see yourself having a life outside law, eventually? Not until I retire. Then I may spend more time on other interests such as music, education and community work.

What is going to be the most significant trend in your region and practice over the next 12 months? It depends on market conditions, but the volatility in Hong Kong's financial markets means that, if sentiment improves, we might suddenly become very busy.

Where is your favourite place to spend an evening in Hong Kong? At home with my family and my grand piano.

What's your favourite item of clothing? My Prada limited edition Hong Kong listing handbag.

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