Weil, Gotshal & Manges (x5)
2025
Why have you decided to pursue a career as a commercial solicitor? (200 words)
I aspire to be a commercial solicitor because the profession offers an intellectually stimulating and versatile career at the intersection of law, business, economics, and politics. I am drawn to the global nature of the work, where cross-border transactions and precedent-setting cases influence markets and shape industries. The opportunity to collaborate with diverse teams and clients across cultures adds a dynamic and enriching element to the role, as no day is ever the same.
Commercial law fascinates me due to its breadth and impact. Whether navigating intricate restructurings or advising on private equity investments, each practice area presents unique challenges that require innovative solutions. This variety ensures continuous learning and the chance to work on high-stakes matters that drive global trends, affecting industries and economies on a significant scale.
I am particularly motivated by the collaborative nature of a solicitor’s role, where teamwork within the office and across jurisdictions is essential to achieving client objectives. The combination of intellectual challenge, creativity, and the ability to influence critical decisions makes commercial law the perfect career path for me. It offers the chance to contribute meaningfully to clients’ success while engaging with complex issues that shape the world around us.
Please explain what attracts you to a career at Weil. (200 words)
I am drawn to Weil because of its strength in restructuring and private equity, two areas where the firm is a recognised market leader. Weil’s work on landmark restructurings, from Lehman Brothers to Cineworld and LATAM Airlines, demonstrates its ability to navigate the complexities of high-stakes, cross-border insolvencies. I am particularly fascinated by Weil’s expertise in distressed private equity, where restructuring and investment strategies intersect to deliver innovative client solutions. This unique combination aligns with my interests, as it offers opportunities to engage with multifaceted challenges and create transformative outcomes for businesses.
Weil’s private equity practice also stands out. The firm’s role in transactions, such as advising Blackstone on the financing of its acquisition of Sediver and Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, highlights its ability to handle sophisticated, high-value deals. My previous insights into leveraged finance at Kirkland & Ellis and restructuring at Akin have solidified my interest in these practice areas, making Weil the ideal environment to build my expertise.
Beyond its technical excellence, Weil’s commitment to innovation, through initiatives like the Innovation Taskforce, and its inclusive culture resonate with me. Weil’s emphasis on collaboration and continuous improvement ensures the firm remains a leader in delivering impactful client solutions.
Think of a current commercial issue that has recently attracted your attention. Why does it interest you, why do you consider it to be significant and how do you think this will impact Weil's clients? (200 words)
A commercial issue that has attracted my attention is the UK’s recent reform of carried interest taxation for private equity (PE) professionals. In the recent Budget, the capital gains tax rate on carried interest was increased from 28% to 32%, effective April 2025, with further reforms planned to align carried interest taxation closely with income tax by 2026. This change highlights the balance between ensuring fair taxation and maintaining the UK’s competitiveness as a financial hub.
This issue interests me because it demonstrates how public policy shapes economic behaviour, balancing morality in taxation with the practical need to attract investment. The reforms could discourage investment and prompt relocations to tax-friendlier jurisdictions, reducing deal flow and PE activity in the UK.
For Weil’s clients, many of whom are leading private equity firms, these changes could disrupt operations and investment strategies. However, they may also drive demand for Weil’s expertise in restructuring and private equity, particularly in advising on innovative tax mitigation strategies or distressed investment opportunities arising from reduced liquidity. This evolving landscape underscores the value of Weil’s integrated, cross-border approach to client solutions.
Please use the space below to provide details of any careers events you have attended e.g. insight days, workshops, presentations, virtual events etc. This is a great way to demonstrate your interest and commitment to law; these do not need to be Weil specific. (200 words)
I have attended numerous insight days and workshops at leading law firms, which have strengthened my commercial awareness of the legal market and enhanced my ability to assess firms strategically when deciding where to apply. These experiences have provided a holistic understanding of the London and global legal markets, including the nuances of firm cultures, practice area strengths, and client service approaches.
Highlights include insight schemes/open days at Freshfields, Skadden, and Kirkland & Ellis, alongside sector-focused events at Bristows for IP law and HFW for shipping and commodities, among many others. These opportunities enabled me to explore diverse practice areas and understand how firms tailor their expertise to meet client needs. For instance, during Akin’s restructuring workshop, I analysed creditor challenges in the Adler case, gaining insight into innovative solutions for liquidity crises. At Kirkland & Ellis, a leveraged finance workshop deepened my understanding of structuring PE transactions, showcasing the critical interplay between business strategy and legal execution.
Additionally, I completed Weil’s Forage Job Simulation, where I explored acquisition structuring and NDA evaluation, reinforcing my interest in private equity. My invitation to Weil’s Insight Day, although I was unable to attend, reflects my commitment to understanding the firm’s renowned practices.
These experiences have not only expanded my understanding of key legal concepts but also equipped me with a broader perspective on the global legal market. By engaging with firms across varying tiers and specialisms, I have cultivated an informed view of what distinguishes top firms and how they deliver value to clients. This awareness positions me to contribute meaningfully as a commercial solicitor, with a focus on navigating complex transactions and delivering tailored solutions to meet client objectives in an increasingly interconnected legal landscape.
2024
Why have you decided to pursue a career as a commercial solicitor? Max 200 words
My ambition to practice commercial law was first ignited during a pre-law summer course at Oxford, where the interlacing of legal principles with business operations captivated my interest. This foundation led me to the legal department at MASEN, where I witnessed the vital role of legal expertise in the sustainable energy sector, steering me towards the intricacies of commercial law.
This experience guided my academic choices, compelling me to delve into commercial law-based modules that provided a comprehensive understanding of the corporate landscape. While my subsequent internship at Bloomsbury Law allowed me to develop a suite of transferable skills, it also crystallized my desire to specialize in corporate rather than residential legal work. It was the sophisticated realm of corporate transactions and their global impact that affirmed my decision. The prospect of advising pivotal global market stakeholders fuels my aspiration to engage in this dynamic field.
In pursuit of a career as a commercial solicitor, my journey through academia and practical legal experiences has been a deliberate path towards developing my understanding of the nuances of commerce and law. I am eager to bring this dedicated focus, along with my refined skills, to the multifaceted challenges of commercial legal practice. ( 200 words)
Please explain what attracts you to a career at Weil. Max 200 words
I am drawn to Weil’s acclaimed Private Equity practice. My experience at Lexsential ignited my interest in the strategic complexity of investments and the critical role they play in innovation and economic progression.
Weil’s prominence is undeniable. The Chambers Band 1 ranking is a testament to the firm’s sector leadership. I am particularly impressed by the firm’s ability to navigate the complexities of high-value, cross-border transactions. A notable instance is the Eutelsat-OneWeb matter, reflecting Weil’s proficiency in in navigating the intricacies of complex transactions to facilitate a landmark industry combination. The firm is committed to delivering innovative and tailored solutions. Weil stands as a full-service firm that always meets client’s needs. This top-tier market standing, combined with the firm’s exceptional handling of high-value transactions, makes Weil the ideal place for comprehensive exposure to Private Equity.
The training contract at Weil promises a transformative experience. With a select intake of fifteen trainees, the firm fosters a nurturing ecosystem that is exceptionally conducive to professional growth. This allows to take on substantive responsibilities early on, contributing meaningfully to the firm’s business development. Weil's unique training contract structure assures me that I will gain the crucial acumen to continuously develop client success. (200 words)
Think of a current commercial issue that has recently attracted your attention. Why does it interest you, why do you consider it to be significant and how do you think this will impact Weil's clients? Max 200 words
The surge in infrastructure funds, spurred by energy shifts and supply chain evolution, has captured my attention due to its strategic implications for global markets and investment trends. This uptick is particularly intriguing in the context of the energy sector's pivot to sustainability and the recalibration of supply chains towards domestic sources.
The significance of this trend lies in its potential to reshape the investment landscape. As infrastructure becomes a beacon for capital, energized by legislative tailwinds and geopolitical shifts, it reflects a robust confidence in the market's direction. This confidence, even in the face of potential interest rate increases, suggests a market resilient and adaptable to changing economic conditions.
For Weil's clients, this presents both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, the focus on infrastructure could mean a boon for those involved in the energy transition and domestic manufacturing. On the other hand, it necessitates astute legal guidance to navigate the complexities introduced by these shifts. Weil’s role may expand to advising on strategic investments, mitigating risks associated with regulatory changes, and guiding through the nuances of large-scale infrastructure projects. This will prompt clients to leverage the firm's legal acumen in navigating this evolving landscape. (196 words)
Please use the space below to provide details of any careers events you have attended e.g. insight days, workshops, presentations, virtual events etc. This is a great way to demonstrate your interest and commitment to law; these do not need to be Weil specific. Max 300 words
My commitment to pursuing a career in law has been enriched by participation in a series of insightful career events, each providing a distinct perspective on the profession’s diversity and dynamism.
At the BCLP Pride event, I engaged with the vibrancy of legal practice through panels and discussions that underscored the firm’s inclusive culture. A session deconstructing a commercial deal illuminated the collaborative nature of solicitor work in real estate acquisitions, enhancing my understanding of teamwork in legal settings.
The Linklaters UAE Virtual Insight Programme broadened my view of international commercial law. Interactive workshops and discussions with legal professionals underscored the importance of integrating technology and innovation to excel in client services within a global context.
Clifford Chance’s ADAPT conference introduced me to the cutting-edge intersection of law and technology. Interactive sessions on innovation in legal problem-solving showcased the necessity of creative approaches to evolving legal challenges, particularly in FinTech and blockchain.
Herbert Smith Freehills’ open day was a deep dive into the firm’s comprehensive legal practices. Insights into a complex corporate case study and the firm’s forward-looking strategies, including their ESG group, accentuated the multifaceted nature of legal work.
Additionally, a virtual law fair facilitated encounters with numerous firms, expanding my network and offering a panorama of the legal landscape’s richness.
My engagement at the AS Virtual Law Fair was a strategic foray into the legal industry's heart, featuring firms like Simmons & Simmons, Baker McKenzie, Skadden, Herbert Smith Freehills, and Addleshaw Goddard. This interactive event allowed me to delve into the firms' cultures and explore their key practice areas through direct dialogue with their representatives. I seized the opportunity to discuss with each firm how they infuse innovation into their client service and adapt to legal market shifts. (290 words)
2024 - Solicitor Apprenticeship
Why have you decided to pursue a career as a commercial solicitor? Why does the Solicitor Apprenticeship route appeal to you (200 words)
I’ve decided to pursue a career in commercial law when I opened my startup. I had first-hand experience in negotiation, pitching, buying, and selling my product (AI legal assistant). Not only was it challenging and technical, but I also had to work under pressure. I particularly enjoyed how it placed me out of my comfort zone, because I could develop a business and entrepreneurial flair. I decided to pursue a route as a commercial solicitor because this sits on the axis between business and law, thereby satisfying my interests in both sectors.
I have considered different routes, but being a solicitor apprentice is particularly appealing for two reasons. Firstly, the support of my colleagues who are experts in their knowledge will contribute to the growth of my career. Secondly, the challenging environment will inspire me to do my best. Weil is not only able to provide a network of support, but also a challenging environment in which an open and transparent culture and collaboration are encouraged and rewarded. Since there is a smaller trainee intake, I will work in a team with a higher level of responsibility, where I will consistently push my limits to work on exciting projects.
What attracts you to a career at Weil? This can include information about the work we do, our culture, or anything else that has stood out to you. (200 words)
I participated in Weil Private Equity and Finance Job Simulation on Forage, where I advised a hypothetical investment company (LG Investors) looking to acquire an international retailer for home products (Harland & Co.). I reviewed an NDA concerning the acquisition of the company and provided advice on potential insolvency issues. I learned the role of the firm's Banking and Finance team in advising on debt financing arrangements for M&A deals and how shareholdings and common directorships can establish a connection between entities. This enabled me to strengthen my legal research, legal drafting, legal conclusions, communication, and presentation skills in a real-world context.
Ranked as a Top 2023 Law Firm by Global Restructuring Review, with a preeminent Restructuring Department that “originated the modern bankruptcy practice,” Weil is exceptionally unique, with strong international exposure and a varied client base of European, US, global private equity houses, corporates, and financial institutions on domestic and cross- border high-profile matters. Weil represents an array of clients that establishes the opportunity to gain exposure to both the creditor and debtor sides in contentious and transactional matters. In turn, not only would I gain depth of knowledge and experience, but also an unparalleled start to my career.
Think of a current global issue that has been in the news recently. Why does it interest you? Why did it attract your attention? How do you think this may impact Weil and our clients? (200 words)
Interest in environmental, social, and governance issues has increased since 2022. And it’s likely to keep the same pace in 2024.
It attracted my attention because this year was marked by many important ESG-specific laws. Indeed, The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive entered into force on 5 January 2023, affecting companies operating in the EU. In addition, on 28 November 2023, the UK's Financial Conduct Authority published its "Sustainability Disclosure Requirements and Investment Labels" policy statement. The Policy Statement introduces a set of new rules aimed at tackling greenwashing, including investment product sustainability labels and restrictions on how terms like "ESG", "green" and "sustainable" can be used.
It can certainly impact Weil because businesses expect their lawyers to become reliable partners and help them navigate a complex landscape of the latest regulatory developments, evaluate risks, and implement ESG in their daily practices. For example, Weil advised the underwriters in connection with a marketed secondary offering of 18,000,000 shares of Fluence Energy (optimization software for renewables and storage), Inc.’s Class A common stock by Siemens, AES, and QIA as selling stockholders.
Moreover, law firms also need to respond to ESG requirements within their internal teams. The bigger the firm is, the more ESG factors come into play.
Have you attended any City Century or Weil events/webinars? What interactions, if any, at these events inspired you to want to apply to this programme? (optional question, 100 words)
The first event I attended was “The Masterclass M&A” on 27 September 2023. Fiona Coffee, an Associate at Weil, presented the firm and its international connections. She then explained the difference between public M&A and private M&A. Finally, she gave us advice, saying that “in law, we have to get ready to be involved in a variety of work" while being resilient, curious, enthusiastic, and focused on the fundamentals. I then attended to the Insight Day on 15 November 2023, where Philippa Wilson and Tobias Desouza presented the firm and the programme and convinced me to apply to the firm.
2022
Why have you decided to pursue a career as a commercial solicitor? (200)
Through my experience as managing director in the Young Enterprise competition, I had first-hand experience into negotiation, pivoting, pitching, buying and selling. I found success and satisfaction from finding solutions to problems and equally, devising forward thinking strategies to drive growth. A career as a commercial solicitor will enable me to apply this mindset broadly.
During my legal studies, I formed a genuine appreciation and enjoyment for a lawyer’s commitment to construct arguments using logic, fact-checking, and application of black letter law. My legal advisor role at clinic CommLaw solidified my commitment to the legal field. I enjoyed the practical element of advancing the clients business goal from a legal perspective when collaborating with teammates to draft advice letters, such as choosing appropriate business structures to limit liability. Working collaboratively affirmed I would be best suited to an environment akin to commercial law.
I explored different areas of law through eclectic module choices and an internship in DLA Piper’s pro bono team, however, this only consolidated my preference for the commercial application of it. The role of a commercial solicitor sits on the axis between business and law, therefore satisfying my interest in both sectors: something another industry cannot provide.
2. Please explain what attracts you to a career at Weil. (200)
Weil Gotshal & Manges (‘Weil’) undertakes first-of-its-kind work that demands tailor-made solutions. Working on market-leading transactions requires innovative thinking, intellectual rigor and collaboration; an environment I would thrive in as a trainee. As the premier firm for restructuring, Weil represents an array of clients. This establishes the opportunity to gain exposure to both creditor and debtor-side in contentious and transactional matters. In turn I would gain not only depth of knowledge, but breadth of experience.
Weil’s prowess in private equity (PE) is demonstrated by the firm advising eight of the top ten PE funds. I find Weil’s strong ties with PE houses impressive given the complexities of these transactions, something I researched when analysing a memorandum during a start-up’s recruitment process. I am attracted to the range of companies’ PE firms acquire in their differentiated stages, and the challenge and variety this work brings.
Additionally, the training pool of 15 trainees is noticeably smaller than other esteemed firms. Weil’s position is therefore exceptionally unique: a prestigious firm with a strong international presence, whist equally allowing trainees to take greater ownership of their work. This would provide an unparalleled start to my career, preparing me for life at Weil beyond qualification.
3. Think of a current commercial issue that has recently attracted your attention. Why does it interest you, why do you consider it to be significant and how do you think this will impact Weil’s clients? (200)
The anticipated rise in interest rates after a sustained period at a historical low (0.1%), has attracted my attention. I find this significantly interesting considering the low interest rate environment has in part, driven US PE firms to leverage on the cheap cost of borrowing as UK companies present as relatively cheap. An increase in interest rates leaves Weil’s PE clients paying increased rates for loans. Theoretically, this leaves less room for negotiation over the acquisition price; especially in the case of leveraged buyouts. The push for ‘covenant-lite’ agreements (as Weil will have assisted with), could also exacerbate their position when interest rates increase.
However, investment shows no sign of slowing. Unprecedented levels of dry power may ameliorate the impacts of any increase. As the recent takeover of Morison’s by Clayton Dubilier & Rice evidences, paying a 61% premium for Morrison’s shares (289p) highlights the appetite from investors to flock to the UK market to buy assets that are ‘undervalued’.
Weil’s restructuring clients could be impacted by incremental changes in the interest rate. Companies may be left unable to service debt and in worst case, become insolvent. Weil’s expertise establishes the opportunity for their lawyers to advise in this circumstance.
2021
What attracts you to a career at Weil?
Firstly, I am attracted to a career at Weil due to the firm’s growing presence in the Chinese markets. As China has one of the largest GDP growth rates, currently standing at 6.9%, it is clear that Weil actively seeks opportunities for growth. In addition to being named a “leading firm for corporate M&A in the Asian Pacific Regions,” Weil has been able to capitalise on global economic trends by advising clients on technology transactions. As head organiser of [retracted] emerging markets forum, I frequently liaise with investors to analyse how consumer trends effect EM economies. Therefore, I am keen to train at Weil to further develop my interests in capital growth.
Furthermore, from my conversation with Charles Hadley, I became attracted to firm’s leading PE and restructuring practices: Weil advising on 6/7 of the largest US bankruptcies is testament to this. Also, the current advent of negative interest rates and the availability of cheap debt has led to PE firms amassing over $1tn of “dry powder”, in which Weil has advised on 8/10 of the largest global PE funds. Therefore, I am attracted to a career at Weil as it is a well-hedged firm that guarantees a constant workload in times of both economic downturn and economic prosperity.
Additionally, I am attracted to a career at Weil due to the firm’s small trainee intake of 15. This leads to greater responsibility and client exposure at an early stage. From my conversation with James Harvey, I was attracted to the fact that Weil benefits from a lack of bureaucracy.
Think of a current commercial issue that has recently attracted your attention. Why does it interest you, why do you consider it to be significant and how do you think this will impact Weil’s clients?
Originating from Africa, I have a vested interest in the continents’ global presence. The recent proliferation of FinTech in Africa stands to have both a disruptive and exciting impact on the global economy. Africa has inadvertently become a hub for technological innovation. Therefore, the legal sector can expect more diversity in clientele and further collaboration with African countries.
In 2018, 210 African tech startups raised $334.5m and the overall amount of Fintech firms in Africa amounted to 491 firms – an increase from the 301 firms in 2017. Given Africa’s sheer man power, the continent uniquely provides tech solutions to their major issues of financial exclusion. With an unbanked population of about 66%, Fintech in Africa excites me as it allows the continent to step into unchartered territory. I am keen to see the developments of new legal parameters to accommodate the growth in FinTech.
As the West develops new standards in mobile banking, countries in Africa have instead invested in new mobile infrastructure. Through ‘M-Pesa’, Kenya’s first mobile wallet, and ‘Moneywave’, a Nigerian startup, local merchants have the unique capability to send money to any bank account or digital wallet in Africa. This equips small merchants with the capacity to expand their businesses across Africa and improve their trade relations. In light of Google and Facebook aiming to improve internet access in rural areas of Africa, it is estimated that by 2020, there will be 525 million smartphones on the continent. This is particularly interesting as this will inevitably lead to unprecedented economic and social growth throughout the continent. Further, the growth in Fintech in Africa could potentially lead to Weil’s clients, such as Microsoft and Verizon, diversifying their portfolios by investing in the mobile banking sector. Particularly in Kenya, financial inclusion now stands at 83% - up from 27% in 2006.