2025

Please outline why you wish to pursue a career in commercial law? (approx. 300 words max)

My interest in commerce stems from my previous work experiences. In accordance with the existing financial difficulties in the retail sector, I witnessed the challenges businesses can face while working at M&S. While working at a take-away, I noticed an increase in competing takeaways opening in the local area. In response, I opened a Facebook account for the business as a cost-efficient method of advertising. The successful outcome this yielded, including less fact-checking calls which allowed me to serve customers faster and improve customer satisfaction, increased my fascination in the competitive yet rewarding nature of business. However, my experience as a volunteer at Citizens Advice, where I spent several months advising my clients, confirmed I would enjoy the advisory role of a commercial lawyer in solving clients’ both commercial and legal problems.

I also believe a career in commercial law follows aptly from my International Relations degree; I enjoyed engaging with different theories and collating them into persuasive arguments. Similarly, the need to analyse large quantities of information as a commercial lawyer, and draw the most practical conclusion to clients’ problems highly appeals to me. Equally, I have a desire to work in a challenging environment. My experience at Citizens Advice offered me an in-depth insight into the high level of responsibility of a lawyer and the challenges lawyers face in their everyday role. It is this continuous opportunity to adapt, learn and grow, both personally and professionally as a commercial lawyer, that has further solidified my interest in commercial law.

Why is Addleshaw Goddard your chosen firm? (approx. 300 words max)

Addleshaw Goddard's growth, demonstrated by its global revenue reaching its highest mark, is instrumental to AG being my chosen firm. This is reflective of my own ambitious nature; I want to work in an environment where my personal goals to grow and reach my full potential, whilst overcoming the challenges of working on high-profiled work will be supported.  Similarly, through AG’s ability to overcome the various challenges around the world, such as geopolitical uncertainty and heightened regulations with growth in all its offices, is a testament to the high quality of training I will receive. 

Additionally, the prospect of working in AG’s disputes resolution practice, recently awarded Disputes Resolution Team of the Year, is appealing. I previously competed in Model United Nations where I experienced international policy negotiations. Here, I developed practical skills such as listening and negotiations to defend my country's interests. This also increased my interest in joining a firm where I would receive the highest quality of training in disputes. Thus, the opportunity to represent clients before organisations such as the Supreme Court and Court of Justice of the European Union at AG highly interests me.

 Thirdly, AG stands out to me as a firm where my career development will be best achieved. For example, with the high level of responsibility offered to previous trainees through management roles for legal streams and client meetings, I am confident of the challenging opportunities to develop the necessary skillset to become a successful commercial lawyer. I believe this is a unique feature of AG's training contract.

Please choose a current legal issue that interests you and describe how it affects/may affect the current legal market? (approx. 300 words max)

With the rise of digital technology, most valuable data is now stored digitally. In turn, cybercriminals have increasingly exploited this trend by targeting businesses’ digital sources for confidential information and intelligence. According to the SRA report, cybercrime was the most prevalent crime in 2017. Subsequently, this has been a key driver in the increased focus on cybersecurity, the protection of computer systems from being stolen, harmed or being compromised in a cyberattack. As the threat of cybersecurity is ever more imminent, this has, and can further impact the current legal market in various ways.

 For example, this can pose as a business opportunity for law firms; in case of such breaches happening, businesses will require legal advice. Thus, law firms with a strong sector knowledge of technology and cybersecurity are likely to benefit. However, firms that lack in this specific sector may improve their position within the wider market by strengthening their practices by recruiting specialist lawyers or by investing in internal training.

However, as law firms have increasingly adopted legal technology, they have also become vulnerable to such cyberattacks. This can have significant economic impact: compensation for losing client data and reduction in productivity, thus loss of billable hours, can cause high immediate costs. Additionally, a cyberattack on a law firm can create reputational damage, leading to long-term loss of work. Therefore, firms need to ensure they have the appropriate softwares in place to make both client protection and self-preservation at the heart of their businesses.

If you were an AG lawyer, recommending the firm to a potential new client - what would you describe as our most unique selling points? (approx. 300 words max)

Ranked as a top 10 innovative firm by the Financial Times, I would describe AGs unique selling point as being truly innovative. Here, innovation is not merely the responsibility of a separate firm entity. Instead, all staff are encouraged to focus on innovation and submit ideas through established processes throughout the firm. Through such non-hierarchical approach to innovation, clients can be assured it is their lawyers who are directly involved in contributing new ideas to solve their problems, and not the select few within the firm. This, I believe, is a key differentiator between AGs and rival firms approach to innovation.

Furthermore, AG is committed to designing new processes in a strictly client-centric manner. Through the firm's unique consultancy, AG Consulting, the firm works alongside clients’ general counsel and in-house legal teams. In doing so, matters that are unique to each client's needs, such as risk-management, spending analytics and corporate governance, are effectively addressed. Therefore, it is evident the use of innovation is well balanced at AG to ensure clients are the central focus whilst services are delivered in a fully tailored manner.

It is also evident clients’ financial needs is a strong priority at AG. Having invested in improving service delivery processes with the use of legal project management as part of AG’s Intelligent Delivery initiative, clients can benefit from the effectively managed services. This allows for an efficient pricing structure by planning the services in advance. With a strong understanding of clients both legal and business needs, AG is more than a law firm

Do you have any other qualities or experiences that you think we should take into account when considering your application, including any extenuating or mitigating circumstances? (250 words max)

Last September, I successfully climbed Mount. Kilimanjaro. In order to overcome the various challenges during the trek, such as long hours of trekking and turbulent weather, mental endurance was crucial.  Additionally, as some team members began to struggle with severe altitude sickness, I initiated the distribution of the weight from their bags throughout the team. This ensured their continuation on the trek by easing their climb as well as the achievement of our common goal of completing the trek together.

At university, I was appointed as the Press Team Lead for [redacted] Model United Nations Society. I led a group of 15 members in content creation to promote the society and its annual conference, and strategically allocated roles according to members' individual skillset. However, upon realising some members struggled to integrate and participate during group meetings, I frequently organised social events centred around communication and relationship building. This maximised the overall efficiency of the team, resulting in a sold-out conference.

Lastly, parallel to Addleshaw Goddard’s commitment to supporting the local community, I am also passionate about volunteering. I previously volunteered at a youth-centre that supports young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and helped vulnerable migrant women and children get access to legal justice in Hong Kong. I developed the ability to confidently deal with sensitive issues whilst providing excellent service. Through Addleshaw Goddard's Unlocking Young Potential strategy, I am confident I will have opportunities to work on matters I deeply care about, such as ensuring equality of opportunities to young people.

2025

What attracts you to a career with Addleshaw Goddard? (1500 Characters) 

As an international student with experience across three continents, I’m eager to join a firm known for its high-quality, multi-jurisdictional work. Addleshaw Goddard’s (AG), presence in 19 cities and 67% growth over three years positions it as a global leader, with recent expansions in Riyadh, Berlin, and Madrid underscoring its commitment to growth. This expansion has placed AG at the forefront of major multi-jurisdictional deals such as advising Alizz Islamic Bank on its US$8.4 billion merger with Oman Arab Bank. AG’s commitment to continuous improvement aligns with my global perspective.

As a senior waiter at The Ivy, I delivered stellar service, focused on client value, contributed to increased revenue, and made the branch top-rated in England. This passion for client satisfaction drew me to AG a firm that rejects a “one size fits all” approach. AG’s solutions, through the Client Development Centre and AG Consulting, address client needs with proactive, regular reviews that drive improvement and strengthen relationships. Hence, my client-focused passion would thrive in AG's dynamic environment.

AG’s forward-facing use of generative AI aligns with my experience at Compass Chambers using GenAI for disclosure. AG's AGPT, processing 130,000 inquiries daily, and tools like Kira and eBrevia demonstrates commitment to efficiency. Hence, AG’s emphasis on "imagination" and client-focused tech solutions deeply resonates with my passion for creating impactful, tech-driven solutions.

2025

What attracts you to a career with Addleshaw Goddard? (1500 characters) 

Addleshaw Goddard’s core values of quality, imagination, and impact deeply resonate with me and mirror the principles I seek in my career. 

The unique and award-winning range of practice areas, such as immigration and education, sparked my interest in a career at Addleshaw Goddard by offering the opportunity to develop as a well-rounded solicitor. The Firm’s strategic expansion to legal hubs such as Riyadh demonstrates its forward-looking strategy to meet clients’ multi-jurisdictional needs. I enjoyed working on complex, international projects at [REDACTED] in Dubai, drawing me to pursue commercial law and enhancing my international-mindedness, aligning with Addleshaw Goddard’s global vision. 

The ‘Law, Plus More’ framework demonstrates the Firm is constantly revolutionising its legal delivery to provide value to its clients and lead the change. I echoed this by introducing new initiatives as the Editor-in-Chief of [REDACTED]  to spark a discussion in my community and provide value to readers through multiple avenues, including the podcast, Instagram, and annual print edition. 

As a trainee, I envision myself thriving at Addleshaw Goddard where an inclusive culture is prioritised and considered conducive to the high-quality work the Firm completes. The Mindful Business Charter and ‘How to Flourish’ programme aligns with my passion for actively promoting accessibility in the legal profession as the Secretary of the first executive team of [REDACTED].

I then faced an automated voice interview, which offered 2.5 minutes to prepare each question and 2 minutes to deliver an answer.

The questions included:

2024

What attracts you to a career in commercial law and why specifically at Addleshaw Goddard? (2000 characters)

Addleshaw Goddard offers a chance to work at a top national firm with a robust UK and international network. The major expansion in Europe demonstrates the firm's confidence in its growth trajectory, and I want to contribute to its continued success and be a part of a forward-looking team. The firm has 40 Tier 1 rankings nationally and regionally, and provides an appealing opportunity for exposure to high-quality work in a wide range of practice areas.

My interest in joining Addleshaw Goddard is driven by the firm's market-leading Disputes practice, which is exemplified by their recognition as Dispute Resolution Team of the Year. Being the Finalist of the [redacted] Moot solidified my interest in commercial law, especially when it comes to resolving complex commercial disputes. I found that I enjoyed the thrill of doing in-depth research, dissecting complex issues, and presenting legal arguments, thus I am eager to be involved in the team’s exciting work. 

Having attended events like Addleshaw Goddard’s event, ‘Generative AI: Opportunities and Challenges’ and HSF’s Digital Open Day, I am interested in the continuous innovation in the legal industry, especially at Addleshaw Goddard. During my vacation scheme at [redacted], I was involved in a pro bono project where I used Relativity, a legal software that enhanced efficiency and enabled seamless cooperation across different offices, developing my interest in the transformative potential of technology and digital tools. Furthermore, having met [redacted] from the commercial disputes team, I learned about the capabilities of generative AI in my area of interest, particularly its role in document review and information retrieval. This allows trainees to contribute effectively to complex legal matters, strategy development, and client interactions. Hence, I see an opportunity to integrate my knowledge of the firm’s technological advancements with resolving legal disputes to enhance client services.

Is technology and AI an opportunity or a threat for Addleshaw Goddard and why? (2000 characters)

Technology and AI represent a significant opportunity for Addleshaw Goddard, especially in the context of the real estate sector, where they have been recognised as Real Estate Team of the Year. The firm's innovative technology initiatives, such as the creation of REVEL, showcase how technology can be harnessed to deliver improved legal services to clients in this industry. 

The firm’s use of data tools and machine learning accelerates data verification and retrieval, streamlining real estate processes. This efficient technology application meets client demands for high-quality, prompt legal services. With the ever-changing landscape of the real estate industry, the firm’s forward-thinking approach to technology not only meets the evolving expectations of clients but also positions itself as a competitive choice in the market.

For example, in the case of Primark's property review of 189 stores with over 40,000 pages of leasehold contracts, the firm managed to build an AI system to review each contract in minutes when faced with the immense task of reviewing and identifying key information swiftly. They combined technology with legal expertise to provide prompt results, saving Primark 70% in time and costs. This demonstrates that technology can be applied to everyday tasks, even those with tight deadlines and complex data, resulting in substantial real-world savings and opportunities for the firm. 

Having talked to [redacted], Senior Manager in the Innovation and Legal Technology team, I gained insight into the firm’s implementation of generative AI technology, for example, having their own AG chatbot. The launch of multiple generative AI pilots positions the firm as an innovator in the legal industry, putting pressure on other firms to follow suit. He also talked about the firm's commitment to training its people to ensure the responsible and controlled utilisation of AI technology in a secure environment, which could potentially be a threat if used incorrectly.

Choose one of Addleshaw Goddard's practice areas or sectors and tell us about a major change in law or government policy that clients in that sector/practice area are facing and what opportunities that creates for us? (2000 characters)

Starting on 6 April 2023, the UK State Pension has witnessed a substantial change due to the government's reinstatement of the "triple lock" mechanism, linking State Pension adjustments to inflation, which has yielded a historic 10.1% increase. Addleshaw Goddard's Tier 1 ranking in Pensions, allows them to deliver tailored solutions to diverse clients, including pensioners, trustees, and many others.

For pensioners, this change signifies the ability to enjoy higher income, increased financial security, and an enhanced quality of life. This creates opportunities for the firm because it guides pensioners in understanding their rights concerning their enhanced pension benefits. The firm’s asset management and investment advisory services can help pensioners make investment choices that align with their financial goals, and provide risk management strategies to protect pension assets from market fluctuations. 

As for pension scheme trustees, they must guarantee that the scheme's assets remain sufficient which may require adjusting their investment strategy to generate higher returns to accommodate the increased member payouts. Thus, the firm can help trustees maintain regulatory compliance, and amend scheme rules to reflect pension benefit changes. The firm can also assist with investment strategies to match higher pension payouts, and address funding deficits. Furthermore, they support scheme changes and facilitate buy-in and buy-out transactions, just like how they advised the trustee of the Asda Group pension scheme on its £3.8bn buy-in scheme. With the help of the firm’s pension and life assurance trustee company, Sovereign Trustees Ltd (STL), its extensive experience and impartiality can provide professional guidance to trustee boards. By collaborating with Addleshaw Goddard, trustees can navigate the complexities of pension governance, and reduce the risk of regulatory issues, which gives the firm a competitive advantage in the legal industry.

If you were in government what one thing would you change to make it easier for UK businesses to succeed and why? (2000 characters)

Forbes ranked the lack of a good sustainability strategy as one of the main reasons businesses fail. Research shows many businesses cite insufficient funding to drive eco-friendly practices and call for additional government financial incentives, despite the UK government's claim of offering over £5 billion in funding to support this. The accessibility of government funding is particularly challenging for small businesses, partly due to stringent eligibility criteria. 

If I were in the government, one change I would introduce to make it easier for UK businesses to succeed is a comprehensive programme designed to incentivise businesses to embrace sustainable strategies. Incentives would take various forms, such as grants, subsidised technology adoption, and lowered eligibility criteria for government funding. This initiative would serve multiple purposes. 

Firstly, it would address the concern of high energy costs, which are among the top worries for UK businesses. Offering subsidies to transition to clean energy, such as solar and wind, or to adopt energy-efficient technologies, will lead to cost savings in the long run and enhance energy security. This can alleviate a significant financial burden on businesses and improve their competitiveness.

Secondly, this programme would align with the global trend towards environmental sustainability. Businesses are increasingly pressured to reduce their carbon footprint, uphold corporate responsibility, and enhance their public image. By increasing access to government funding, businesses can mitigate sustainability risks and comply with regulations. This safeguards businesses against unlimited fines and legal consequences stemming from noncompliance with strict environmental regulations, such as the Energy Act 2013 and the Green Claims Code.

Hence, by promoting sustainability, we contribute to the long-term economic growth and resilience of businesses, increasing their chance of success.

2024

What attracts you to a career in commercial law and why specifically at Addleshaw Goddard? * 330 words

I was drawn to a career in commercial law due to the client relationship aspect. I established and managed a hair business for three years. Throughout my experience, I significantly enjoyed building relationships with clients and sought a career that would allow me to do this.

Another reason for my interest is due to an internship with [redacted company]’s in-house legal team I was selected for in my first year of university. Actively participating in tasks like researching and drafting termination letters was both insightful and enjoyable, and seeing how commercial lawyers use research and communication skills to meet [redacted company]'s objectives piqued my interest. Furthermore, realising the fit between my entrepreneurial mindset and the role of a commercial lawyer fuelled my enthusiasm for this career path. 

I am drawn to Addleshaw Goddard due to its renowned expertise in Real Estate. Throughout my Commercial Property module, I have conducted research and advised on a fictional property development from the acquisition to the completion stage. I thoroughly enjoyed drafting break notices, and license agreements and advising on issues such as planning permission and environmental risks.

The firm's significant offerings in Real Estate, with 8 top-ranked practices and tier 1 ranking in the Legal 500 2023 guide, impresses me. I want to further my interest in real estate by training with a firm that will allow me to learn from the best lawyers in this sector.

Another reason I am drawn to the firm is because of its commitment to leveraging technology to be competitive. This is evidenced by the firm's A* ranking for Legal tech on the Legal Cheek, with the firm described as having an "ever-evolving" legal tech due to its highly rated Innovation and Legal Technology team.

I feel particularly suited to a career at the firm as I understand the value of leveraging technology to remain competitive and exceed client expectations. The firm's outlook demonstrates that I can be trained to provide excellent service and anticipate future risks for clients.

Is technology and AI an opportunity or a threat for Addleshaw Goddard and why? * 330 words

Technology and AI present significant opportunities for Addleshaw Goddard. The key advantage is the enhanced efficiency AI and technology bring to client work delivery.

AI can be used specifically to automate written tasks and sift through large amounts of data in a short period of time. AI can also be used to analyse large amounts of legal documentation in order to identify key clauses and potential risks. This efficiency not only saves time but directs resources towards more specialised, revenue-generating client work, reducing the costs associated with routine tasks.

Furthermore, recent developments such as Verify 366, an innovative AI-powered solution designed to assist legal professionals and organisations in effectively managing Anti-Money Laundering (AML) risk and compliance, could be a potential opportunity for the firm. Integrating such technology aligns with ethical standards and regulatory requirements in the legal industry which would set Addleshaw Goddard apart in client service provision. This strategic adoption of technology has the potential to attract new clients and increase the overall workload for the firm.

However, careful consideration must be given to the associated cost of implementing new technology and AI systems. The firm needs to transparently communicate how these costs will be managed, whether absorbed internally or passed on to clients. Additionally, addressing the risk associated with confidential client data is important. The firm would need to implement stringent measures to ensure AI solutions comply with data security and privacy requirements.

Overall, AI and technology are an opportunity for the firm, however, balancing the potential benefits with the associated challenges is important. By adopting a strategic approach, Addleshaw Goddard can position itself as a leader in leveraging technology to enhance client services, while also addressing financial considerations and safeguarding client data. 

Choose one of Addleshaw Goddard's practice areas or sectors and tell us about a major change in law or government policy that clients in that sector/practice area are facing and what opportunities that creates for us?

The recent EU-US Data Privacy Framework signifies a pivotal change in data law and is one major change in the law that will affect the firm's clients who deal with data. This framework was adopted by the European Commission on July 10, 2023, to address concerns about the effectiveness of the previous privacy shield. Notably, the UK-US data bridge, a part of the Data Protection Framework, came into effect on October 12th following the DSIT's announcement on September 21st.

As a result of this decision, organisations in the EU and the UK can now rely on the framework and data bridge to transfer personal data to recipients in the US who are registered under the Data Protection Framework.

This legal change brings significant advantages for clients involved in data exchange. The enhanced data protection provided by the framework, which includes necessary measures to safeguard personal information from unauthorised access, is amongst these benefits. Furthermore, clients dealing with data exchange will no longer be required to implement additional safeguards, such as standard contractual clauses, to ensure GDPR compliance. However, because of this change in the law, they must ensure that their existing Privacy shield certifications are brought up to date.

Addleshaw Goddard, renowned for its expertise in data protection and information law with a Band 1 ranking, stands to benefit from this legal shift. The firm's privacy lawyers are well-positioned to guide clients through these changes, offering tailored advice on compliance and ensuring that privacy obligations align with the new framework. This presents a prime opportunity for the firm to attract clients seeking specialised counsel, leading to increased billable work, heightened revenues, and increased profitability.

If you were in government what one thing would you change to make it easier for UK businesses to succeed and why? *

If I were in the government, I would focus on increasing research and development (R&D) spending as this plays a crucial role in fostering business success. In the UK R&D spending in the government for 2021 was £66.2 billion which is equivalent to around 2.9% of GDP which exceeded its targets for total R&D spending to reach 2.4% of GDP by 2027. Currently, the UK invests a lower percentage of GDP in R&D than most competing countries that have launched specific strategies targeted at boosting their innovation performance and R&D investment.

Minimal R&D can be a significant factor that contributes to the lack of success for some UK businesses. Innovation is crucial for staying competitive and meeting evolving customer needs. Businesses that neglect R&D may struggle to introduce new products, improve existing ones, or adapt more efficient ones. This lack of innovation can lead to a decline in competitiveness, reduced market share, and ultimately hinder the long-term success of a business.

To address this, my proposed change would involve increasing the target to 3% of GDP up from 2.4% and aligning with successful strategies employed by countries like the US and Germany. I would also introduce microeconomic changes such as concessions for R&D by providing incentives such as tax breaks as businesses would be encouraged to invest in innovation. Increased funding and tax breaks would foster technological advancements, product improvements, and overall business growth. Concessions could also help mitigate the financial risks associated with R&D making it more feasible for businesses to explore new ideas and stay competitive in evolving markets.

To ensure optimal impact, a mechanism for effective allocation of the increased R&D budget could established through collaboration with industry experts. Moreover, fostering partnerships with educational institutions and the private sector would contribute to a holistic innovation ecosystem, enhancing the effectiveness of R&D initiatives.

Use this space to tell us about any mitigating circumstances that you might have, any scholarships or awards that you have achieved or any other information, such as your preferred pronouns. 

Last year I was contacted by Powerful Media via LinkedIn and selected to appear in the 2022 150 Future Black Leaders magazine. As part of this, I was invited exclusively to a launch event at the London Stock Exchange hosted by Latham & Watkins, and Google. I was recognised in the magazine for an online group I founded called 'Life through Christ,' where I post advice on how to navigate life as a young Christian. In this group, I share my biblical analysis and testimonies. This has significantly enhanced my leadership skills by allowing me to reflect on my experiences and use them to assist others in directing their journeys.

2023

What attracts you to a career in commercial law?           

I am keen on pursuing a career as a commercial lawyer as I am drawn to the advisory aspect of the work.     Having participated in the [Russell Group University Activity] working on cases involving employment disputes, I developed an appreciation for the role of lawyers in understanding their clients’ interests and analysing the ‘best’ solution. From this experience, I gained a great sense of satisfaction from helping the client overcome the problems they faced and discovered that client care is essential in creating customer loyalty. Pursuing a career as a commercial lawyer presents the opportunity to work closely with clients as both legal and commercial advisors, to find commercial astute solutions. 

Further, I enjoy the strong business focus of commercial work. A lawyer must possess a combination of strong legal expertise and an excellent understanding of the clients’ industry trends. Whilst speaking to partners working on an M&A deal on a link day at Addleshaw Goddard, I witnessed how lawyers structured the transaction in a tax-efficient manner to maximise profitability and gained an insight into how I could play a role in a client’s success. 

As a sales associate in a retail store, I demonstrated client-focus when providing tailored product recommendations and performing frequent stock checks for customers.   I also appreciate the opportunity that commercial law provides for continuous development, through the necessity to adapt to changing markets and continuous innovation. Over the summer, I decided to broaden my understanding of the types of commercial services firms such as AG are providing, by undertaking a [Name of Legal Skill Course] conducted by [Name of Startup]. I particularly enjoyed listening to how AI is changing the legal landscape and allowing firms to focus on improving client experience through the smart delivery of legal services. I am therefore attracted to AG because of the firm’s reputation as a leader in innovation and feel my creative nature makes AG a compatible firm for me.  

What do you think attracts clients to AG as opposed to other firms?

Addleshaw Goddard (‘AG’) possesses several attributes which makes the firm stand out from both its regional international competitors. These unique selling points have attracted a wide range of clients across a variety of industries – most notably the firm’s position acting for nearly every major UK clearing banks. 

AG is set apart by its unique approach to legal technology and is a market leader within this field. The development of AG intelligent delivery has opened doors to a whole new level of possibilities for how legal services are delivered. Compared with its competitors, AG is extremely client focused and works with their clients to understand their business problems and develop the optimal way to moving forward and addressing challenges efficiently and effectively that fits with their corporate strategy. For example, the use of the portfolio management system, Property Revealed, allows AG to help their real estate clients reduce risk and identify opportunity by way of data, to increase efficiency and optimise future events.         

Consequently, what gives AG a unique character among other law firms is its ability to tailor its services to a client’s needs. The firm demonstrated this when it developed AG Integrate, which allows clients to choose from a pool of highly skilled, self-employed consultants, designed to allow the client access to a wide range of skills and fresh perspectives on an ‘as-needed’ basis. Unlike some competitors, AG Integrate is wholly run within AG itself and so is a fundamental part of the firm. This means that the services offered have a single AG point of contact who knows each client’s business intimately, making the service streamlined to suit the client.

What do you feel will be the biggest challenges for the legal sector over the next 12 months? 2000 characters           

Technological advancements are slowly starting to peel through the cracks and blend itself into our norms. 

A challenge facing law firms may be that as the legal landscape becomes more digitalised, does the profession itself become obsolete at trainee level? 

Many documentation tasks, such as proof readings, traditionally performed by a trainee; through automation there will be a decreased need for the task to be completed by a human eye. This is a serious issue at hand as not only could this impact the reputation of AG whereby it could be viewed that technology and electronic reliance has overreached the one-to-one meetings that many clients prefer, but this disruption of technology could in turn depreciate the client-tailored advice and standard that AG is known for. It will be interesting to see how AG will diversify the role of a trainee in the future. Perhaps, trainees will benefit professionally from having a ‘hands-on’ role in cases from earlier on.

Another challenge is that as the adoption of legal tech continues to accelerate, so will cyberattacks caused by malicious AI. A recent report conducted by the Solicitors Regulation Authority highlighted that 75% of the firms included in the report had been the target of a cyber-attack. Accommodating remote workflows and collaboration has left law firms more exposed to cyber-attacks, as cybercriminals have sought to exploit increased attack surfaces with sophisticated phishing and ransomware. With the rise in hybrid working, firms will need to evolve their cyber security approaches in the upcoming years to ensure they mitigate the risk of cyber-attacks. With AG being regarded as one of the leading data and information practices in the UK, they will have the necessary expertise to ensure they are able to detect and respond to cyber incidents as rapidly and as automated as possible, as well as to prevent them. Getting ahead of the curve will deliver a competitive advantage ensuring secure outcomes for their clients.

Covid and Brexit have brought many changes and challenged to a number of sectors over recent years. Please discuss one of the sectors you believe has been affected. 2000 characters

Since the Covid-19 pandemic real estate has been hard hit across the value chain.

Perhaps one of the biggest challenges has been the issues surrounding contractual compliance between commercial landlord and tenants, especially those in the hospitality and entertainment sectors where venues have had to remain closed. The Cine-UK Limited case illustrated this as commercial tenants lost their case in respect of rent payments during the pandemic. This has led to an increase in Litigation and disputes for the legal sector and an increase in negotiations with clients and their landlords. With the Government publishing its response in relation to Covid-19 commercial rent arrears, it will be up to firms such as AG, with their market leading Retail Estate Sector to advise landlords and tenants on their options moving forward. In particular, those which have moved in and out of trading restrictions during the pandemic, for example non-essential retail.    

Further, although Brexit will have a relatively minor impact on UK land law due to its domestic nature, companies involved in real estate will be advised by law firms to consider the wider commercial related ramifications of the Brexit transaction on their business, for example, the impacts on supply chains. With the UK’s decision to leave the EU single market, the end of passporting has had real impacts on businesses that trade within the EU, specifically those within the financial services sector. Consequently, many UK-based firms such as Barclays and Goldman Sachs have relocated following the Brexit announcement. This will cause an increase in demand to provide adequate housing opportunities, regarding the relocation of staff and their families within EU Cities. With AG having offices in key arbitration centres such as France and Germany, they will undoubtable be involved in a lot of cross-border work, giving advice, and arranging relocations.              

Is there any additional information you would like to disclose for us to consider alongside your application? 1500 characters     

I have the ability to manage my time well across a number of extracurricular activities whilst maintaining consistently strong academics. As the captain of the [Russell Group University Sports team], I was responsible for arranging fixtures, organising teams, and boosting morale. The role required strong leadership skills as well as the ability to work as a member of a team and communicate well with the coach and other team members. This required a high level of enthusiasm and demonstrates my willingness to be a team player, skills which I believe will fit in well with your firm’s collaborative and open culture.        

Further, I volunteered for the role of merchandise officer for the [Name of Sports Club], which required me to create merchandise and kits for both the women’s and men’s futsal teams. I had to collaborate with both teams to understand the types of kit they desired and how much they were willing to spend. Working within a tight budget, I had to ensure that the club was generating enough income from sponsorship and membership money in order to cover the cost of the kits. This role taught me valuable lessons in the art of prioritisation and has certainly developed my creativity. The experience will benefit me when it comes to working with clients, listening to their needs, and finding ways of developing a service that they will be satisfied with.

Lastly, I have always been the type of person that likes to help people in need, and I have been involved in many charity events. A career at Addleshaw Goddard will allow me to continue these efforts through the CSR charity committee, which creates lots of fund-raising opportunities to get involved in.        

Whilst these are just some examples of my roles of responsibility, I believe they demonstrate skills which will be transferrable to a career at Addleshaw Goddard.

2023

How do you feel your skills and attributes would suit a legal career at AG? (2000 characters)

Firstly, my strong ability to simplify complex information would suit a legal career at AG. This is a skill I developed in my role as a writer for my university's student newspaper. My articles range from film reviews to commercial news stories. I recently wrote a piece about the [redacted IP law tech platform]. Not only did this increase my commercial awareness, but it also required me to write about complex copyright infringement laws in a way that was easy-to-understand and engaging for the readers, most of whom were not legal experts. In advising their clients, solicitors have to ensure their clients understand often very complex laws, therefore, an ability to communicate these laws in a simplified and clear manner is vital. This skill would especially suit a legal career at AG because of their focus on delivering clarity and efficiency, which is evident from the simple design of their website, to AG Integrate.

Secondly, my strong collaboration skills would suit a legal career at AG. From playing violin in an orchestra, to working in a team at [redacted coffee shop], I have learnt the importance of collaboration in achieving success. Furthermore, from working on group projects in university, I know I learn better when hearing from others and taking on different perspectives. Because of this, I always make an effort to ensure inclusivity when working in a group. For example, when working on a project for my [redacted] class, in order to ensure everyone was able to input their ideas, I decided to create a Google Doc where people could write their ideas before our meetings, and during the meetings, I would make sure to ask those who have been quite reserved to communicate their thoughts. In the solicitor role, discussing information with others will allow for different ideas to be proposed, and in turn will provide the best solution to clients. AG encourages "open arms, open minds and open doors", evidencing how collaboration is especially important at AG.

What makes AG stand out from other commercial law firms? (2000 characters)

AG's commitment to innovation makes it stand out from other commercial law firms. Given the ever-changing nature of commercial law, innovation is key to keeping up with it. Therefore, when choosing a law firm, clients will be looking for those with a focus on innovation. Ranking the 5th most innovative law firm in Europe by The Financial Times in 2021, AG has clearly established an excellent strategy to ensure innovation. AG has fully integrated legal technology into their business. For example, AG uses Kira to manage large amounts of information, making their work more efficient. HighQ provides tools to ensure efficient delivery of legal work and easy sharing of information. This evidences how AG's commitment to innovation is also ensuring other parts of their strategy are achieved - for example, using HighQ to facilitate collaboration. Not only does AG focus on legal technology, but they also made an effort to embed innovation into their culture. AG has partner-led innovation groups which work closely with the Innovation and Legal Technology Team. Staff are also encouraged to focus on innovation when completing their work. 

From this, it is evident that AG goes beyond merely using legal technology as part of promoting innovation, going the extra mile and truly embedding innovation into their DNA. This has a significant positive impact for AG. Through the innovative use of legal technology, clients will receive their advice and work completed more efficiently, and solicitors will be able to focus on the more complex tasks, completing them to a higher standard. In addition, encouraging staff to focus on innovation and using legal technology to facilitate collaboration, solicitors will be more easily able to hear different perspectives and think outside of the box. This will allow clients to receive the best solution to their problem, making the firm highly attractive to clients.

Tell us about a recent deal in the press that has captured your interest. How might this impact AG and our clients? (2000 characters)

Though not yet closed, the deal concerning Amazon's acquisition of One Medical captured my interest. I was fascinated by this deal because it represents the recent trend of big tech companies venturing into healthcare to create new revenue streams, highlighting the convergence of tech and the life sciences. The deal is followed by Amazon launching "Amazon Clinic", an online service operating in 32 states that offers virtual healthcare for over 20 conditions, from acne to allergies. 

This deal will have wider implications on the healthcare sector, which is an area of expertise at AG. Big tech will be focused on rapidly scaling their innovative health care solutions. They will invest heavily into this space to buy out promising companies, and develop products they think the industry needs. AG will have to advise on regulatory updates in the health care industry and merger control. For example, Amazon’s One Medical deal is already being examined by the Federal Trade Commission. There will inevitably be the need for data protection lawyers advising on agreements to deal with how such personal data is processed. For example, as part of its One Medical deal, Amazon may need to set up firewalls to separate customer information held by clinics from that gathered through other products and services. 

In the long term, the deal will put Amazon in a better position to deliver an improved and more connected model of care for consumers. Amazon is known for large scale ventures, so there is no doubt this will have a huge impact on worldwide healthcare providers. This will be particularly threatening to AG's clients who are current healthcare providers, as Amazon will redefine consumer expectations of care. This means current providers will need to work hard and innovate in order to keep up.  

Given the Government’s commitment to be Net Zero by 2050, please provide three suggestions on how commercial law firms like AG can support and help contribute towards this goal? (2000 characters)

Firstly, it is important for firms to set targets. By setting their own goals, a firm will have a more personal view of the Net Zero commitment, and will see how important their contribution is to the wider goal. Setting a target and sharing it publicly also provides a degree of accountability, ensuring that firms don't stray away from it. Also, reporting publicly on the firm's progress in achieving the goal provides another layer of accountability, and also acts as a strong motivator to keep going. Increasing regulation might require firms to report emissions anyway, and this is an incentive to reach the target as the firm will not want to appear behind other firms. 

After setting a target, a firm needs to implement strategies to achieve it. Here, a lot of small but fundamental changes will need to be made. A focus on legal technology and the digitalisation of paperwork would be ideal here, given the immense amount of paper used in discovery and litigation. Allowing staff to work from home a few days a week would also make a huge impact, as it would cut down the pollution caused by daily commutes. Lastly, investing in green infrastructure would contribute immensely - this can be anything from installing solar panels to using energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems. Not only would this contribute to the wider goal of Net Zero, but it would also support it - if one firm is to implement a strategy, then other firms are likely to follow through fear of falling behind or getting a bad reputation. Firms could use social media to show what they are doing to contribute, which not only holds them accountable, but also supports the goal by raising awareness of it.

Lastly, firms can have a lot of impact in their traditional advisory role. Solicitors can take action against climate change by drafting robust and meaningful net zero clauses in line with, for example, the Paris Agreement goals. Firms will need to educate their staff on what net zero means so that they can help clients steer their business planning accordingly, and advise on energy transition schemes and renewable infrastructure projects.

2022

Please outline why you wish to pursue a career in commercial law? (approx. 300 words max)

The evolving and unpredictable nature of a career in commercial law provides a challenging role, which is highly appealing to me, as this offers an interesting and varied career. It involves working on deals that can be seen in the headlines, which presents the opportunity to work on cutting-edge work, impacting on society. I am equally interested by the analysis and interpretation that is required.

I am interested in the commercial drive of businesses and the role that commercial law plays in helping businesses achieve their goals. This demands a close client relationship in order to understand the changing aspects of their business within the global economy. My interest in the commercial world began when I worked in retail, as I built an understanding of how to approach and assist clients to solve their problems. I became interested in economic growth, profit margins and how businesses adapt to a competitive marketplace.

Commercial law is constantly changing due to the development of technology and artificial intelligence. This helps to fulfil client expectations with efficiency and innovation, whilst reducing mundane tasks for trainees, offering the opportunity to work on more complex tasks. This allows for greater professional and career development.

Working in the VAT department at KPMG provided the opportunity to analyse cases in relation to food VAT rates for a health-food provider. I was interested in understanding how the outcome of these cases affected the price that the retailer sold the products for, their profits margins and how it measured against its competitors, confirming a career in commercial law.

Why is Addleshaw Goddard your chosen firm? (approx. 300 words max)

I am attracted to a firm that is adaptive to the market and provides a unique client service. The firm has gained a reputation of embracing technology to solve client problems as part of the firm's AG Intelligent Delivery project. Therefore, Addleshaw Goddard is ahead of its competitors, by investing in technology, showing that it is an exciting time to be with the firm.

The culture of Addleshaw Goddard is friendly and there is an open plan office regime to break down barriers. This support demonstrates why I want to train with Addleshaw Goddard, as I want to be in a positive environment, where I can seek guidance freely. The international nature of the firm is highly appealing to me due to my language skills.

Addleshaw Goddard has repeatedly been in the Times Top 50 Employers for Women. This demonstrates that it encourages a work life balance and heavily supports its people. This is exactly the firm I want to progress my career with, as an individual who is personally affected by these initiatives.

Addleshaw Goddard's sector-based approach is unique, and this focus means that the firm has developed a strategy which is targeted to clients within these sectors. Not only does this mean that clients' work is completed by lawyers with high levels of experience, but it also means I will be learning from lawyers who are experts in their field.

I am interested in Addleshaw Goddard as it gives back to its communities and environment and the firm's CSR objective of Unlocking Young Potential demonstrates this. Following on from my CSR work, as the leader of TaxAid charity, this is something I would be keen to get involved in.

Please choose a current legal issue that interests you and describe how it affects/may affect the current legal market? (approx. 300 words max)

 The Legal Services Act 2007 has enabled other service providers, such as the big four accountancy firms to have alternative business structures. They can offer clients help with law, tax and audit under one roof, offering a seamless service in a climate where client expectations are constantly changing. They are exploiting what Susskind describes as the “more for less problem” and this is of significant influence, as they are preparing for issues such as Brexit. KPMGs Global Brexit Centre of Excellence can help clients to manage their risks and opportunities globally.

Therefore, law firms must differentiate their offerings. These providers are also investing into legal technology, which can be seen with EY’s acquisition of Riverview law. This is of significance, as this does not follow the billable hour model that is used in law firms. This means they can offer competitive pricing and compete with law firms, by delivering clients an efficient and cost- effective service. Due to this, the prices of legal services are being driven down and there is more competition within the market, where clients have the freedom to choose their provider. Law firms need to innovate to keep up with client demands and unlock new commercial opportunities.

However, the big four have a limited practice area capacity and a mid-market focus. Therefore, firms such as Addleshaw Goddard can rely on their reputation to secure higher value work. Nevertheless, collaboration with alternative business structures, such as with Allen & Overy and Deloitte with their MarginMatrix will ensure that law firms can say relevant in this period of challenge.

If you were an AG lawyer, recommending the firm to a potential new client what would you describe as our most unique selling points? (approx. 300 words max)

Addleshaw Goddard is an innovative firm, demonstrated by the award of the 7th Most Innovative Law Firm in Europe at the FT Most Innovative Lawyers. The firm is pioneering new ways of delivering legal services to assist clients with the commercial challenges they face.

This has been awarded through a variety of platforms providing bespoke solutions, which include data knowledge and intelligence, new business and service delivery models using the best combination of process, people and technology. The firm has also incorporated new products and services such as the Corporate Governance online platform, which assists in-house legal teams to keep up to date with regulatory and compliance changes. For a potential new client, this offers a creative approach to client delivery, which results in cost-effective, efficient work with added value.

The reputation that Addleshaw Goddard possesses, demonstrates a strong commitment to providing quality legal advice which is another unique selling point. The firm has built long-term relationships with its clients, by being a trusted business advisor that has a deep understanding of the markets that its clients operate in, through a sector-based approach. Therefore, the firm's lawyers have a high level of expertise.

This reputation would not exist without the collaborative team culture, which is harnessed by the firms' value of being team players. This allows everyone to work together by respecting individuality and allowing ideas and expertise to thrive. This brings the best in each individual and creates a positive working environment, ultimately resulting in high quality client work.

2022

What do you think attracts clients to AG as opposed to other firms?

I think Addleshaw Goddard has several unique selling points that attract clients to the firm. Firstly, AG’s problem-solving framework ‘Law, Plus More’ takes a holistic approach to clients’ needs, meaning that AG is more than a law firm. The combination of legal, technology, resourcing and consultancy expertise maximises value created for clients, as experts from a variety of specialisms collaborate to deliver the fastest, smartest solution. This approach has innovation and flexibility built into it, providing the client with a cost-effective high impact service, as highlighted by the firm’s use of alternative billing approaches.

Secondly, AG’s client-centric approach makes the firm stand out from its rivals. For example, in 2005 AG foresaw the challenges that in-house legal teams would be facing in the near future caused by the ‘more-for-less’ dilemma. AG stayed ahead of the curve by creating the Client Development Centre and AG Consulting. The firm provides services in line with each client’s individual strategies and needs, using its expertise to help in-house teams operate more efficiently and more impactfully. This demonstrates AG’s effectiveness in utilising its expertise to deliver bespoke services.

Lastly, the firm has earned a strong reputation as a result of its innovation and quality of work. For example, AG has been recognized as a Top Five Law Firm in Europe for Innovation. Awards of this calibre form an important part of the consideration process during which clients get assurance regarding the firm’s expertise. Furthermore, the firm boasts a large proportion of returning clients. This reflects the high level of legal and sector knowledge that AG lawyers possess, leading to stronger client relationships. AG’s international network and resourcing expertise mentioned earlier also mean that the firm is better equipped for addressing a variety of their clients’ concerns compared to other rival firms.

Our thoughts

Positives

• This answer gets straight to the point, with a nice introductory sentence, and maintains a clear structure throughout. It is also very well written, without glaring typos.
• It focuses on what clients would care about, rather than what employees would care about, which is the correct approach (but the latter approach could be an mistake to make).
• It picks out specific branded initiatives (e.g. “Law, Plus More” and “AG Consulting” etc.), as well as statistics (“Top Five Law Firm in Europe”), which demonstrates thorough, firm-specific research.
• Most points link back to the question, and the arguments within each paragraph build nicely.

Potential points for improvement

• The applicant could have explained what is meant by “alternative billing approaches” to demonstrate a thorough understanding, as I don’t feel this point obviously follows from the points generally made in the paragraph. They could also have focused a little more on the benefits for clients, rather than what the firm is doing.
• The second point doesn’t clearly relate to clients. It’s all a bit vague/high level, and doesn’t explain what the ‘more-for-less’ dilemma is, nor how it is solved.
• The third point arguably overlaps with the first point, as both link to quality of work. Perhaps this could have been phrased as the firm’s ability to tackle the most complex challenges, or something to that effect.
• The applicant could potentially have focused more on the firm’s network (various regional offices for UK clients, as well as international offices), it’s values (linking to corporate social responsibility), its investment in legal tech (which can make legal services more efficient, and therefore cheaper), and so on.

What attracts you to a career in commercial law?

My interest in law stems from studying an introductory law module in the first year of my degree. I thoroughly enjoyed studying how the law evolves and the problem-solving involved in applying the law to a given case study. This prompted me to seek a volunteering opportunity with my local Citizens Advice Bureau, where I completed a weekly shift for 8 months. I learned how to build rapport with clients and how to write up case reports, which improved my attention to detail. This role reaffirmed my desire to pursue an intellectually stimulating career with high client contact. I found the advisory nature of the role particularly rewarding, as I was able to help clients navigate complex and urgent issues within a limited amount of time. Furthermore, having completed a vacation scheme, I am excited by how dynamic commercial law is as a result of constant business and geopolitical developments; I learned something new with every task I took on. I also enjoyed working in a team and the process of applying the law to the client’s specific case.

Commercial law appeals to me due to its business-focused approach. My experience working in retail during my A-level studies, as well as my internships, have led me to be more commercially minded. During the summer of 2021, I interned at PUBLIC. I observed how government contract bids are drafted; I found it particularly interesting to learn how PUBLIC tailored its services to the client's needs and how the company created value for its clients. The challenge of tailoring legal advice to clients' needs and sectors appeals to me. As factors such as technology and climate change re-shape business sectors in the next few decades, a career in commercial law will allow me to learn constantly and be at the forefront of key developments. This is important to me as someone who seeks out opportunities to improve my skills, as highlighted by the variety of work and voluntary experience I have completed.  

Our thoughts

Positives

• It talks through the applicant’s journey into law chronologically, which is easy to follow and comes across as personal and authentic.
• It explains how their interest in the career evolved over time, clearly sign-posting which experience contributed to this, and the aspects of the career that they learned about or experienced at each stage.
• It mentions what they enjoyed, not just what they experienced (people often get this wrong – remember, it’s about motivation). 

Potential points for improvement

• At times, it veers into a “why you” answer rather than a “why commercial law” answer. Skills aren’t really relevant here, unless you’re making the point that you really enjoy utilising those skills. For example, mentioning that their attention to detail had improved isn’t the same as saying they want to work in a professional where attention to detail is key. Just because you’re good at something doesn’t mean you want to do it.
• It also potentially goes into too much detail about PUBLIC – there are perhaps 3 lines in a row that don’t link to the candidate’s motivation at all. 
• It could have also mentioned the international aspects of the work, given that the firm is international, and the focus on teamworking (which tends to distinguish commercial law from the bar).

What do you feel will be the biggest challenges for the legal sector over the next 12 months?

The increasing importance of technology in the legal sector presents challenges and opportunities over the next 12 months. One of the biggest challenges presented by technology in the sector is the increase in pricing pressures from clients and competitors. With the rise of AI, legal technology capabilities have expanded to include traditionally time-consuming and low-value tasks such as due diligence, contract life cycle management and document review. This has also led to the increase in Alternative Legal Service Providers (ALSPs), as well as an improvement in perceptions about the quality of work ALSPs produce due to their effective utilisation of legal technology. The low cost of ALSPs presents a challenge for law firms, as a significant proportion of billable work risks getting transferred to these providers if firms fail to remain competitive. This presents a challenge for firms that use traditional billing models, as individual billable hour frameworks may lead to uncompetitive prices that clients no longer wish to pay. However, alternative billing models such as collective billable hours can present opportunities such as encouraging further collaboration within the legal sector.

Addleshaw Goddard is well equipped to overcome this challenge not only due to its innovative nature and successful integration of legal technology into its services but also due to the deeper insights that the firm delivers to its clients. AG’s service goes beyond working with clients on one-off legal issues. For example, AG has developed a leadership development programme for a client to prepare its General Counsel for future changes and uncertainties. Furthermore, the firm’s pricing remains competitive, further decreasing the risk posed to AG by ALSPs. For example, AG has used AI to cut a client’s legal costs by up to 30%. This holistic use of technology will draw clients to AG over cookie-cutter Alternative Legal Service Providers.

Our thoughts

Positives

• Discusses technology clearly, with good examples thrown in to show deeper research (contract life cycle management etc.).
• Shows good research into the firm, for example by mentioning the leadership development programme and the AI-related statistic.
• Well written, with a fairly clear structure.

Potential points for improvement

• I’m not sure the challenge of pricing pressures is caused by technology. Technology is a potential solution. So the logic doesn’t fully flow.
• Some unnecessary repetition (e.g. the phrase “challenge for firms” is used multiple times in some form).
• It seems to go off topic a little bit at times. For example, if the challenge is pricing pressure and the solution is technology, what is the relevance of “collective billable hours” in this context? It might be relevant to collaboration, but not the issue of clients wanting cheaper legal services.

Covid and Brexit have brought many changes and challenges to a number of sectors over recent years. Please discuss ONE of the sectors you believe has been affected.

The Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated public and private initiatives towards a sustainable future, as the crisis was an urgent wake-up call to how physical events can have extremely advert effects on business. Following the announcement of the UK Ten Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution, as well as the Net Zero target, I believe the Energy and Utilities sector has been significantly affected. This legislation, combined with ESG targets driven by investors, is a key driving force behind the increased demand for renewable energy projects and businesses transitioning to green practices.

Addleshaw Goddard’s expertise in this sector is highlighted by market-leading work such as advising Energy regulator Ofgem in its policy for the UK’s first offshore transmission rounds and completing the largest smart metering deal in Europe. This work highlights AG’s strengths in the sector, fuelled by the firm’s ability to effectively navigate and respond to change, by seeking out opportunities that change brings.

Work in this sector is likely to increase further following the European energy crisis, which highlights our overreliance on fossil fuels and the need for domestic renewable energy sources. Furthermore, the impact of Brexit on supply chains and trading regimes has created ‘supply bottlenecks’, exacerbating the issue of the UK’s lack of energy buffer stocks. I believe the rise in the number of UK renewable energy projects is likely to continue in the long-term to prevent a crisis of this scale from happening again. However, decarbonising the economy whilst maintaining a stable energy supply requires developments beyond traditional renewable sources such as wind and solar, as these are difficult to store on the scale needed to decarbonise transport for example (particularly HGVs). Thus, I think hydrogen fuel projects will generate a lot of work as part of the UK’s ‘green recovery’.

Our thoughts

Positives

• Very well written.
• Demonstrates a clear grasp of energy-related terminology and initiatives.
• It clearly outlines, early on, which sector is being discussed.
• It covers both COVID-19 and Brexit, as requested.

Potential points for improvement

• The “challenges” aren’t particularly clear, yet this was a key part of the question. The answer talks a lot about opportunities and impact, but doesn’t clearly spell out what the actual challenges are. I would have probably started by mentioning the sector, then setting out key challenges stemming from COVID-19 and Brexit, then discussed opportunities/solutions/how the firm could capitalise on this.
• The answer jumps to the firm’s expertise fairly early on, even though this isn’t part of the question. It’s fine to mention it, but I would have spent more time on the challenges facing the sector first.