2025

Please tell us what is your proudest achievement and why. This can be from any aspect of your life. (400 words)

One of my proudest achievements is securing a successful settlement for my partner in a property dispute, marking the first time I applied legal knowledge in a practical and impactful way. The experience not only tested my initiative and problem-solving abilities but also affirmed my commitment to pursuing a career in law.

Last year, my partner lived in a shared house that was in poor condition with safety concerns, compounded by an absentee landlord. The situation prompted us to terminate her tenancy early, but I felt strongly that some form of recourse was necessary. Upon researching, I discovered that the landlord was operating without a House of Multiple Occupancy (HMO) license, a legal requirement for shared houses in that area. This non-compliance opened the possibility for tenants to claim compensation through a Rent Repayment Order (RRO).

Undertaking the task of securing compensation, I immersed myself in legal research and the procedural rules for filing an RRO application. I verified the landlord’s absence from the public register, prepared evidence, and compiled a comprehensive bundle, including statements of case and supporting documents. Filing the application was a meticulous process that required precision and organisation.

The tribunal set a hearing date, and the landlord subsequently initiated settlement discussions. His initial offer was 75% of the rent repaid, but I tactically delayed responding to build urgency, knowing the tribunal would begin with 100% compensation and potentially increase, particularly in cases of poor landlord conduct. Within three days, the landlord conceded and offered a full 100% settlement. Despite the favourable outcome, I identified concerning clauses in the settlement agreement, particularly a non-disclosure agreement. I negotiated its removal to protect against potential misrepresentation and onerous liabilities, ensuring the best case resolution.

This achievement was deeply fulfilling—not only because it secured full compensation for my partner but also because it allowed me to apply legal knowledge in a real-world context. The process honed my research, drafting, and negotiation skills, demonstrating the importance of attention to detail, strategic thinking, and effective communication.

While this contentious matter showcased my ability to resolve disputes, I am drawn to transactional work, where I can build enduring relationships and contribute to transformative deals. This balance between problem-solving and collaboration is at the heart of what motivates me in my legal career.

Please tell us about a recent commercial article or event that has attracted your attention. Please explain why it interested you, give your opinion on the opportunities and challenges that it might present to a law firm such as Kirkland & Ellis. (400 words)

The recent debate surrounding the taxation of carried interest for private equity (PE) managers in the UK has captured my attention due to its intersection of private equity, investment behaviour, and tax policy. Carried interest, currently taxed at a favourable capital gains rate of 28%, will face significant changes following the Autumn Budget 2024. The announced reforms, including an increase to 32% in April 2025 and reclassification as trading income by 2026 (taxed at up to 47%), illustrate the delicate balance governments must strike between equitable taxation and economic competitiveness.

This issue interests me because it underscores the intricate relationship between tax policy and investment behaviour. Private equity thrives on incentives like carried interest, which align the interests of fund managers and investors over the long term. Altering this tax structure risks disrupting that alignment, potentially prompting firms to relocate to jurisdictions with more favourable regimes. For a firm like Kirkland & Ellis, with a global reputation and leading private equity practice, this presents both challenges and opportunities.

The reforms pose challenges to Kirkland’s clients, including reduced profit, increased compliance complexity, and potential relocation costs. These changes could lead to fewer UK-based transactions, impacting the high volume of M&A, restructuring, and leveraged finance work that private equity generates. However, Kirkland’s expertise in navigating regulatory changes and cross-border legal frameworks positions the firm as a critical advisor to PE clients during this transition. The firm’s ability to support clients in restructuring funds, exploring alternative jurisdictions, and complying with evolving tax regimes underscores its role as a trusted partner in turbulent times.

The gradual nature of these reforms and the ongoing consultation period also present opportunities. Kirkland can leverage its multidisciplinary expertise to shape discussions with policymakers and advocate for clients’ interests, ensuring pragmatic solutions that preserve the UK’s attractiveness as a private equity hub. Additionally, the firm’s ability to innovate and adapt, hallmarks of its success, allows it to identify opportunities in uncertainty, such as structuring funds to optimise for the new tax landscape.

This issue highlights why I am drawn to Kirkland & Ellis: the opportunity to work at the intersection of complex regulatory, economic, and transactional challenges, contributing to solutions that drive investment behaviour while maintaining the UK’s competitive edge.

Why do you want to be a trainee solicitor in a transactional focused firm? (400 words)

I am drawn to transactional legal work because of its focus on achieving tangible outcomes that drive economic growth and foster innovation. Unlike contentious matters, which often revolve around resolving disputes, transactional work emphasises collaboration, strategy, and the creation of value. This approach resonates with me as it allows lawyers to build meaningful client relationships while navigating the complexities of global business.

The financing of deals, bidding processes, and the structuring and drafting of contracts particularly fascinate me. I am intrigued by how risks can be mitigated through mechanisms such as pricing, indemnities, and warranties, ensuring that deals are both commercially viable and legally robust. My interest in these intricacies was deepened during Kirkland & Ellis’s Open Day, where I gained insight into the challenges of structuring leveraged finance transactions and the strategic thinking required to support high-value deals.

Transactional work also requires critical skills that I have developed through my experiences. As a waiter in fine dining, I honed my attention to detail, ensuring exceptional service for clients with specific needs. In lettings, I collaborated closely with colleagues to manage property viewings efficiently, demonstrating strong teamwork in a fast-paced environment. Negotiation skills were central to my success in securing a settlement in a property dispute, while my participation in over 20 open days and insight schemes has strengthened my commercial awareness, enabling me to understand the importance of providing commercially viable advice.

Kirkland & Ellis’s unparalleled private equity expertise makes the firm an ideal environment to pursue my ambition to work at the forefront of global transactions. Private equity’s role as a driver of international economic growth, stimulating industry and ensuring the efficient allocation of capital through leveraged buyouts, aligns with my passion for contributing to transformative deals. Kirkland’s integration of private equity across all departments offers an opportunity to develop expertise in a collaborative and high-stakes setting.

My participation in the Legal Horizons programme with Covington & Burling, where I explored corporate and commercial transactional law, reinforced my passion for deal-making and its broader impacts. At Kirkland, I am excited to contribute to innovative solutions that drive economic progress and to develop as a lawyer in a firm that values early responsibility, client focus, and excellence in execution.

2024

Please upload your CV and a cover letter. Your letter should be addressed to Graduate Recruitment and include why you want to be a lawyer, what skills you can bring to the role of a trainee solicitor, and why you are applying to be a trainee solicitor at Kirkland & Ellis. (400 words)

Dear Ms. Logier,

I am writing to apply for the Summer Vacation Scheme 2024. Having met Kirkland & Ellis representatives at the [redacted] Law Fair, I was encouraged to apply for this opportunity.

My experiences in commercial law have only strengthened my motivations. My time at a small tech firm sparked my interest for a legal career; given the firm’s entrepreneurial slant, I relished the client-facing nature of the work as well as the advisory aspect of a lawyer’s role. Following this, during a Commercial and IP seat on the [redacted] vacation scheme, I found the challenges of mitigating risk particularly enjoyable. I also noted the use of both case law and the business’ unique commercial situation to solve clients’ issues. This combination of theoretical and problem-solving skills is central to my motivation for a career in commercial law.

In terms of Kirkland & Ellis, the firm’s private equity (PE) excellence is a significant motivating factor. Considering the firm’s varying PE involvement through each one of its departments, it is the prime environment for development. During time at [redacted], I gained experience in PE law through its interrelation with debt financing when leveraging investments. I saw the collaborative nature of PE deals, working alongside firm-wide teams, regulatory experts and portfolio companies. The PE opportunities in Kirkland & Ellis’s debt finance seat enticed me: the technical, transactional work is combined with skills such as anticipating risk and analysing financial data. When considering the added responsibility facilitated by the firm’s slim trainee intake, the overall training experience is uniquely well-rounded. 

Finally, I have developed a range of skills which will bring me success as a Kirkland & Ellis trainee solicitor. My role as Vice-President of the Non-Law Into Law Society has developed my creativity and leadership skills. Having been voted in democratically, I have taken an active approach to the new commercial awareness newsletter, whilst also interacting with over 30 brands and businesses. In a firm as forward-thinking as Kirkland & Ellis, this ability to consistently re-evaluate one’s approach is key to maintaining a competitive advantage. Another skillset which I have developed is a strong level of written communication. My D1 English Pre-U score and exceptional 88% mark as part of my projected First-Class degree show my analytical aptitude.

Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

[redacted]

Please tell us what is your proudest achievement and why. This can be from any aspect of your life (400 words)

My role as Student Lead of my departmental Gender Equality Initiative is my proudest achievement. This culminated with a successful application for the Silver Athena Swan Award, a framework aiming to ameliorate gender equality in higher education. This was a satisfying tangible reward that was emblematic of the year’s achievement.

One reason why I view this achievement with pride is the project’s positive impact on the community. In my role, I created student and staff gender equality surveys, receiving over 200% more responses than in previous years. The unprecedented response number allowed for a more inclusive discourse within the department. This made tangible differences, such as the implementation of a new unconscious bias course to be taken by all members of the department. An important part of my success was the ability to collaborate with senior team members; I could understand gender equality issues from their perspective and create a pertinent survey. Also, my inclusion of a self-evaluation of our gender pay policy was an original detail which set our application apart from the previous Bronze Award. These individual achievements were central to the team’s success. 

Another factor which makes me so proud of this achievement is my personal development. Having achieved the role, despite my excitement, I felt apprehensive. As the only undergraduate member, I was fearful that I would not be able to convey my ideas and I initially lost some self-confidence. Also, as a male member of the team, I was anxious that my efforts to overcome the patriarchal nature of the university would not be taken seriously.

However, I made certain changes in my approach, both inwardly and outwardly, to make the project a success. For example, I suggested in-person meetings rather than the virtual meetings of previous years. This gave me confidence to project my ideas and allowed me to build a more genuine relationship with my team members. In general, there was a cyclical nature to my enjoyment of the project: the more commitment I put into tasks and meetings, the better I communicated with my colleagues. 

There were a few lessons I learnt about myself through this experience. Firstly, I discovered that the feeling of accomplishment which comes from making a difference is worth the challenges of adjusting to a new environment. Also, in terms of my method, I learnt that the best way to avoid self-doubt is to apply dedication and enthusiasm.

Please tell us about a recent commercial article or event that has attracted your attention. Please explain why it interested you, give your opinion on the opportunities and challenges that it might present to a law firm such as Kirkland & Ellis (400 words)

The third passing of the UK Energy Bill is a recent issue that has attracted my attention. As an imminent research analyst for [redacted] Sustainable Finance Society, I am consistently identifying attractive investment opportunities in the ESG market. This issue initially piqued my interest due to the Bill’s measures to incentivise private investment in renewable energy. However, it holds a broader significance, also representing changes in regulation and development in response to the 2022 energy crisis.

The Bill’s intention on creating an independent body to oversee electricity and gas framework will have an impact on Kirkland & Ellis’ infrastructure clients, offering opportunities for the firm’s advice. Infrastructure investment firms must adapt to regulatory changes and the likely need for a re-assessment of financing structures would call upon Kirkland & Ellis’ restructuring lawyers. Another facet of the Bill that will affect the firm’s clients, and subsequently present opportunities for Kirkland & Ellis’ real estate funds team, is the extension of the Ofgem energy price cap. Macquarie Asset Management, a recent client on a strategic partnership deal, is one of many of Kirkland & Ellis’ clients who own energy assets. Given the reduced returns on investment that will accompany an increased cap, the firm are likely to be called upon to diversify the portfolios of such firms to mitigate the increased risks of the energy sector.

Such reduced investment returns due to market volatility, despite the opportunities they may offer, will negatively impact the firm in two ways. Firstly, the firm’s private equity clients will have to re-evaluate potential projects: their weakened portfolios will mean that raising money for any proposed acquisitions will be more difficult. This will impede the flow of deals for the M&A and acquisition financing team at Kirkland & Ellis. Secondly, in terms of Kirkland & Ellis’ model, these challenges facing clients’ investments could lead to the firm’s revenue decreasing due to diminished fees. Finally, focusing especially on the real estate funds team, the Energy Bill’s focus on investment in renewable energy is likely to bring on challenges. Whilst opportunities will arise to invest in energy-efficient technologies, this adjustment in investment strategy coupled with new regulations is likely to incur higher upfront costs. As a result, the funds team may struggle to deliver expected returns to investors. This is one example though, where Kirkland & Ellis can create a competitive advantage by turning such challenges into opportunities.

Why do you want to be a trainee solicitor in a transactional focused firm? (400 words)

Having gathered experience at a variety of law firms, the complexity, dynamism and problem-solving nature of transactional work has appealed to me most. This can be suitably summed up by my experience during the vacation scheme at [redacted]. In my first seat, Rural Property, the small client pool and recurring pattern of deals did not appeal to my interpersonal abilities or analytical skills. However, the following week, in the transactional focused Commercial & IP seat, I enjoyed the greater diversity of clients, stimulating workload and requirement for collaboration. Given the chance to foster relationships inside and outside the firm, I thrived in an environment where the experience was multidisciplinary. In the more transactional team, I was acting as an adviser and businessperson as well as applying statutory law. As a commercially-minded individual, this necessity to develop and use knowledge on a variety of industries and subjects is central to my proclivity for transactional law.

Hence, considering Kirkland & Ellis’ transactional structure and ‘free-market’ system, the trainee experience at the firm is hugely attractive. The sense that all offices and practice areas are connected ensures that every lawyer is an active agent in Kirkland & Ellis’ global trajectory. As evident through my positions of responsibility, I operate best in a diverse team working towards a common goal. Another aspect of transactional work that appeals to me is the importance of negotiation and deal-making. When working for a sustainable food business during the pandemic, I developed a sales acumen by marketing to customers and other businesses. In my client-facing role, I relied on my ability to find fast solutions to imminent challenges, all whilst developing a rapport with the client. This mirrors the need to act as a salesperson in transactional work; when negotiating agreements, it is important to strike the balance of benefitting the firm and finding a mutually beneficial outcome.

Finally, focusing specifically on the training experience, the meritocratic outlook of a transactional firm such as Kirkland & Ellis means that there is always an opportunity for development. The complex, high-profile work that is the norm at Kirkland & Ellis means that trainees must be treated as a valued, competent member of their team. This opportunity to learn through osmosis from senior members of a team will always lead to a more efficient training experience than theoretical learning.

2024

Why are you applying to attend an open day at Kirkland & Ellis International LLP? (250 words) 

As an ambitious and driven student aiming to have an impact on the growth and development of businesses from a legal perspective, I hope to work at an outstanding law firm offering unrivalled client service. Kirkland and Ellis is a leader in this field, demonstrated by its consistently growing revenue ($7.21 billion in 2023) and Band 1 rankings in Private Equity and Restructuring/Insolvency. The firm achieves this through its hands-on-training, empowering the most driven individuals to excel, aided by its small trainee intake and 100% retention rate. As a high-achieving individual who similarly drives for excellence, I am attracted to a firm which enables trainees to gain practical experience from the start of their career, and I am eager to further my insights through an Open Day.

Your recent deal advising BC Partners on its $6.9 billion closing of their latest flagship fund is evidence of market-leading businesses employing your services for their high-profile matters, and I aspire for a career where I can work on cutting-edge transactions early on. I can take the initiative, demonstrated by my recent six-week internship with legal NGO ‘RACS’ in Sydney, where I communicated directly with clients and Australian government bodies to prepare Protection Visa applications. Notably, I successfully ensured over 100 client files were updated with relevant contracts, highlighting the importance of accuracy, self-management and client confidentiality – traits Kirkland and Ellis value highly. I would appreciate the opportunity to gain an in-person understanding of the firm, and would be grateful to be considered.

2023

Cover letter

Dear Graduate Recruitment,

I am a penultimate year Law student at the [REDACTED], writing to apply for a place on the 2023 Vacation Scheme at Kirkland & Ellis (‘K&E’).

My interest in commercial law stems from my participation in a virtual M&A internship with Forage, where I gained insight into the duties of transactional lawyers and saw firsthand how they act as both legal and business advisors. My experience running a digital marketing agency, [REDACTED], has sparked my passion for helping companies navigate complex business issues as they grow. To further my understanding of commercial law, I attended a Private Equity and M&A workshop with Weil, Gotshal & Manges, where I learned about the importance of prioritising key points and using problem-solving strategies during negotiations. These experiences have solidified my desire to pursue a career as a commercial lawyer and contribute to the growth of businesses.

During my conversation with incoming trainee at K&E, [REDACTED], I learned that my ability to deliver results under pressure would be well-suited for the fast-paced environment at the firm. I developed this ability as a legal researcher, where I worked with a small team on a film project for [REDACTED] County Council. I worked beyond my allocated hours to review a large volume of legal documents on a tight deadline, prioritising crucial documents and putting in extra hours to meet the stakeholder's standards. By working closely with my team, I was able to manage the fast-paced nature of the project and ensure the script was legally accurate.

I am drawn to K&E because of its 'free market' system, which allows trainees to choose practice areas they want to focus on, enabling them to excel in their chosen field. I am also attracted to the firm's meritocratic culture, which would allow me to learn and progress more quickly than I would at other firms.The small trainee intake at K&E would offer personalised training and allow me to focus on my career path. Working in specialised, close-knit teams would provide opportunities to develop lasting professional relationships. My experience as the founder of [REDACTED], working with diverse businesses, has taught me the value of building and maintaining professional relationships. This would make me an asset in cross-border transactions and with international clients.

Sincerely,

[REDACTED]

ADDITIONAL Q - Please tell us what your proudest achievement is and why. This can be from any aspect of your life - 400 words

One of my proudest achievements is being recognised as [REDACTED - ACADEMIC AWARD] by Cambridge International Education (CIE) in 2021. This accomplishment was particularly meaningful to me because I had faced the setback of being expelled from school for poor performance earlier in my academic career. Despite this challenge, I refused to give up on my dreams and worked hard to complete my AS levels. I sought advice, developed a plan, and put in the necessary effort to succeed. My determination paid off when I received two awards from CIE for performing the best in the country and the world on two subjects, respectively. This achievement is significant to me because it demonstrates my drive for personal growth and my ability to overcome adversity, and work hard to achieve my goals. I believe these qualities will be valuable to me as a trainee at K&E.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I am also proud of my involvement in initiatives to promote diversity in the legal field and my efforts to support the success of international students. As a mentor with the [REDACTED] law society, I have had the opportunity to provide personalised advice and support to state-educated students as they pursue careers in law. I have also volunteered to participate in events and workshops with law firms and legal professionals, with the goal of increasing diversity in the legal profession. As Course Representative for over 650 law students, I have advocated for the needs of international students by promoting initiatives such as the [INITIATIVE EXAMPLE] and initiatives to foster cultural and intellectual exchange. Through these efforts, I have been able to make a meaningful contribution to the enrichment of students' lives and careers, showcasing my drive for social change through leadership.

Finally, I am proud of my success in co-creating [REDACTED], a manga that has received over 2.6 million reads since its release 3 months ago. This project required hard work and dedication as I collaborated with an artist to develop my writing and storyboarding skills, create a compelling story structure, and incorporate elements of conflict and resolution. The experience also taught me how to adapt to changing standards and incorporate feedback while maintaining the integrity of the original work, skills that will be valuable in any future endeavors, including as a trainee at K&E.

ADDITIONAL Q - Please tell us about a recent commercial article or event that has attracted your attention. Please explain why it interested you, give your opinion on the opportunities and challenges that it might present to a law firm such as Kirkland & Ellis. (400 words)

A recent business news story that caught my attention was an excerpt from the Mckinsey Global Survey exploring the increasing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in various business sectors. This trend is of particular interest to me due to its potential to revolutionise the way law firms operate. As a future lawyer, I believe it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field and to be aware of both the opportunities and challenges that AI presents.

One of the most exciting opportunities of AI adoption is the potential to improve efficiency and productivity through the automation of certain tasks in the contract management process. I have personally witnessed the effectiveness of AI-powered systems, such as Kira systems, during a virtual M&A internship. The use of these systems not only saved time and resources, but also allowed for a more thorough and accurate analysis of contracts.

Another opportunity for law firms is the potential for increased work in their technology and intellectual property (IP) practices. As AI becomes more prevalent, there will likely be a need for more IP lawyers to advise on patent strategies for the commercialisation of AI and on IP aspects of AI cross-border M&A deals and investments. K&E's recent advice on a strategic equity investment in Upland Software, a company producing AI-powered tools, demonstrates this trend. As AI adoption grows, there will be more opportunities for firms like K&E to leverage their expertise in this area.

Of course, the increasing adoption of AI also presents challenges for law firms, including the potential for a reduction in the volume of work for lawyers. In order to address this challenge, firms like K&E may need to invest in training and professional development to help their lawyers adapt and find new ways to provide their services. While this may lead to disruptions in the traditional career path for lawyers, it also presents the opportunity for the development of new roles, such as AI legal engineers.

Overall, I am excited about the potential for AI to transform the legal industry and believe that law firms like K&E have the opportunity to embrace these technologies in order to stay competitive and provide the best possible service to their clients.

ADDITIONAL Q - Why do you want to be a trainee solicitor in a transactional focused firm? (400 words)

I am interested in becoming a trainee solicitor in a transactional focused law firm because I am drawn to the intellectually stimulating and challenging nature of corporate law. I enjoy using my analytical skills to solve complex issues for sophisticated clients and believe that this dynamic environment is what makes law in a transactional focused firm particularly appealing.

My interest in this area was further reinforced through my experience in a digital marketing agency, where I worked collaboratively with businesses to increase their revenue and attract more clients to their social media pages. This role required me to think on my feet and take on a significant level of responsibility, managing multiple business accounts simultaneously. In addition, my participation in a virtual M&A workshop exposed me to the complexity of transactional law and the constant development of teamwork skills required to overcome commercial challenges at each stage of the transaction. I was particularly struck by the ambivalence of transactional work, as lawyers on both sides of the transaction must work both together and against each other to come to a mutual agreement on terms while also meeting the needs of their clients.

I am particularly interested in becoming a transactional lawyer at K&E due to the strong reputation of its Private Equity (‘PE’) practice, which won the award for the best PE team at the British Legal Awards 2022. This caught my attention as it offers the opportunity to work on complex legal issues and provide innovative solutions to sophisticated clients. I am also drawn to the variety of private equity-focused transactional work at K&E, as private equity clients often invest in companies across different sectors, geographies, and life cycles. The depth of K&E's transactional expertise across practice areas is particularly exciting to me, as it offers excellent opportunities to develop my understanding of a range of industries and provides a unique sense of variety and challenge to my work.

In addition to my strong work ethic and self-motivation, I value constructive feedback and appreciate the emphasis that K&E places on mentorship and providing guidance to its trainees. These traits, combined with my enthusiasm for transactional law, make me a suitable candidate for Kirkland & Ellis. I am confident that a traineeship at this firm would provide an unparalleled start to my legal career and allow me to grow and develop as a transactional lawyer.

2022

Dear Graduate Recruitment,

I am a penultimate year Law student at the University of [redacted]. I am writing to apply for a place on the Spring Vacation Scheme at Kirkland & Ellis (K&E).

My interest in commercial law stems from working with the M&A team at an international law firm where I saw the interrelation between advisory and transactional work. I worked on the due diligence process of an acquisition and was drawn to the trust clients have in their lawyers to act as legal and business advisors who understand strategy and provide commercial solutions to legal issues. Running a start-up sparked my interest in helping businesses navigate commercial challenges in order to drive both client and firm growth. Eager to learn more, I secured a place on the competitive RARE Discuss programme where I presented a client pitch to a panel of partners. This confirmed my desire to pursue commercial law as it demonstrated that a career as a commercial solicitor sits perfectly on the axis between business and law, which would satisfy my interest in both sectors.

After speaking with associate [redacted K&E associate], I learnt that my ability to deliver results under pressure would be well-suited at K&E. This is because trainees engage with clients at a uniquely early stage. I developed this skill as a Paralegal working on a major sporting contractual dispute. The urgent nature of the review required me to work beyond my allocated working hours to meet the clients deadline. I adapted to the fast-paced environment by liaising with my team to ensure the priority batches were reviewed first. This meant I exceeded my daily target of 750 documents and our team met the deadline.

K&E’s meritocratic culture and expertise in the private equity industry creates an ideal environment to align my experiences with my career ambitions. I am drawn to K&Es high-performance culture because trainees, through the smaller intake, take greater ownership of their role on transactions. The entrepreneurial mindset shared throughout K&E is what sets the firm apart from its competitors and has allowed K&E to become a pioneering force within the London market by providing a full-service offering to private equity clients. I want to train at a firm where I will be consistently challenged with a variety of market-leading private equity work, best preparing myself for life at K&E beyond qualification.

Thank you for your consideration.

Yours sincerely,

[redacted name]

Please tell us what your proudest achievement is and why. This can be from any aspect of your life. (400)

During the COVID-19 lockdown, I launched my own business aimed at improving students' virtual networking skills. I noticed the transition to a virtual environment posed a challenge to students who were unfamiliar with engaging with professionals online but presented an even greater opportunity for students from a wider remit of universities to gain exposure to leading commercial law firms. I was confident that my experience with networking and the insight I had gained throughout my first-year placed me in a unique position to capitalise from the student demand and make this idea successful.

As a first-generation professional, entrepreneurship is not something which I have ever been encouraged to explore. However, throughout Sixth Form I recognised that my career focus and experience with networking, as President of the Law Society, allowed me to stand out in an environment which was filled with academically gifted students. After successfully setting up the school's first law society, I was incentivised to pitch my idea to a friend and together we created an organisation which provides insight to students interested in pursuing a career in commercial law or investment banking. I found the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and have an impact in a very competitive environment extremely rewarding.

As Co-Founder of [redacted organisation], I now lead a team of ten who organise our social media promotion whilst I advise our commercial law clients. To meet our deadlines set for September, I delegated our commercial awareness posts to content writers whilst I focused on marketing to potential clients. I keep in regular contact with my team to monitor progress and discuss new ideas to innovate the business. Spreading the workload maximised our efficiency and meant we generated 450 social media followers and £120 revenue in our first month.

The fast-evolving nature of social media combined with the transition to a virtual environment stimulated the demand for aspiring lawyers and bankers who were looking to profit from the wealth of information available online. By capitalising off this demand, we have helped 50 students increase their confidence with virtual networking by advising on how they can use platforms such as LinkedIn more effectively. I am excited by the opportunity to pitch this idea in schools post-COVID as it will widen our client base and create mentorship opportunities for current [redacted organisation]’s clients who go on to secure graduate roles in the years to come.

Why do you want to be a trainee solicitor in a transactional focused firm? (400)

Working with the Shipping & Superyacht Finance team at Clyde & Co sparked my interest in transactional work. By shadowing a partner and an associate on an asset-financing deal, I gained a first-hand insight into the role of a commercial lawyer on a complex transaction and learnt that my collaborative ability would be well-suited at a transactional focused firm. I organised sections of the conditions precedent checklist and liaised with my trainee buddy to collate the relevant signatures required before the signing. I enjoyed the collaborative nature of the deal as trainees play a key role in coordinating with opposing counsel and different jurisdictions in order to facilitate the transaction. I learnt that the complexity of transactional law means transactional lawyers' teamwork skills are constantly being tested and developed in order to overcome commercial challenges at each stage of the transaction.

The fast-paced nature of transactional work also appeals to me. Consistent private equity deal closures throughout the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrates the appetite from investors to profit from undervalued assets and pursue transactions despite the economic uncertainty. In turn, this has generated a steady stream of workflow for well-hedged firms who can service their clients throughout all economic climates. As a trainee at K&E, this would provide me with greater exposure to transactions than at competitor firms. Working on multiple deals under shorter time frames appeals to me, because it would provide a steeper learning curve throughout the training contract. This would allow me to acquire a deeper understanding of the broader elements of a transaction which is crucial in order to provide creative solutions for clients.

The variety of private-equity focussed transactional work at K&E also stands out to me. By completing an online course on private equity and venture capital by Bocconi University, I learnt that private equity clients, in particular, invest in companies across different sectors, geographies and lifecycles. As a trainee, this would offer a unique sense of variety and challenge to the work. I find it exciting how one day I could be working on a deal for a high-growth tech company and the next dealing with issues from a distressed retail business. The depth of K&Es transactional expertise across practice areas provides excellent opportunities to develop my understanding into a range of industries. This confirms to me that K&E would provide an unparalleled start to my legal career.

Please tell us about a recent commercial article or event that has attracted your attention. Please explain why it interested you, give your opinion on the opportunities and challenges that it might present to a law firm such as Kirkland & Ellis. (400)

I was interested to read that the UK government is toughening takeover rules for foreign buyers of UK companies through the National Security and Investments Bill. This headline interested me because, if approved, the new bill may have a profound impact on future M&A activity in the UK and increase protectionism at a time of peak-Brexit uncertainty. Recent reports of a no-deal Brexit becoming increasingly likely and the drop in the pound by 1% demonstrates the need for the UK to encourage inbound investment.

The proposed legislation will force prospective foreign bidders of UK assets in 17 different industries to alert a new government unit before transactions can be approved. Analysts' predictions that over 1,000 transactions will require approval marks a sharp U-turn in the attitude towards foreign buyers of UK companies as there have only been 12 public interest interventions by the government since 2002. Though it is unlikely many transactions will be blocked by the government, this poses a risk to M&A investment into the UK by increasing the red tape bidders will have to go through and crucially slows down the speed at which transactions can be completed by.

The impact on deal flow is a serious concern for private equity clients as transactions tend to be completed under much shorter time frames. Further, the timing of private equity investment or exit has a direct impact on the return funds generate. By working exclusively for sponsors, this may pose a threat to K&E as slowing deal volume has been the primary reason for private equity clients increasingly scrutinising legal costs over recent years. Law firms such as K&E provide an essential service to private equity investors; however, the concern for increasingly cost-conscious clients surrounds the unpredictability of legal fees and transparency of billing.

Nevertheless, this poses an opportunity for K&E to increase market share in the private equity industry. A proven way private equity funds manage their legal fees is by consolidating the number of firms they work with to those whom they have built strong relationships with and provide predictable pricing. With the largest Investment Funds practice in the world alongside market-leading Finance, M&A, Litigation and Restructuring practices, K&E is uniquely well-positioned to provide a full-service offering to private equity clients and profit from any consolidation in the market.

Is there anything else you would like to add in support of your application? (200)

During Sixth Form, I created the school's first ever Law Society. In this role, I organised 10 guest speakers for the 30 members and adjudicated the mock-trial competition. My personal highlight was liaising with local high-street firms and building a relationship with them on behalf of the school. As a result of the close rapport I built with three firms, the school saw a 25% increase in legal representatives at the annual careers fair.

I am a recipient of the Vesey Award which recognised my commitment to extracurriculars, leadership and volunteering. I also received the Tom Healey Geography Award which recognised an ability to outperform targets set for my A-level performance.

Outside of academia, I was selected to represent [redacted] Tigers rugby at regional level. This involved ten hours training each week and fortnightly matches. My role as vice-captain meant I led our team-analysis sessions where I would pitch our game strategy. In my first away game, we were losing 15-0 and I noticed this was because we were attacking too narrowly. At half-time, I suggested we implement a more expansive kicking game. My suggestions were welcomed by the captain and I was proud to contribute to our 20-30 victory.

During university, I have led a series of virtual events. I spoke as a first-year representative for [redacted university]’s M&A society alongside two future trainees to an audience of 250 students. I have also delivered a presentation as Careers Officer of [redacted] University Law Society on methods to improve commercial awareness and how to demonstrate it in applications.

2021

Please upload your CV and a cover letter. Your letter should be addressed to Graduate Recruitment and include why you want to be a lawyer, what skills you can bring to the role of a trainee solicitor, and why you are applying for the vacation scheme at Kirkland & Ellis.

[Redacted personal information]

October 20, 2019

Emma Ridley Associate

Director Attorney Recruiting and Development

Kirkland & Ellis International LLP

30 St Mary Axe

London

EC3A 8AF

United Kingdom

Dear Ms Ridley,

I am writing to apply for a 2020 summer vacation scheme at Kirkland & Ellis. I am currently in the final year of my Hispanic Studies degree at the University of Nottingham.

I wish to become a commercial lawyer because I have learnt that commercial law requires an understanding of the specific business needs of clients, and the ability to develop practical solutions, applying legal expertise to specific commercial contexts. This interest was confirmed by a placement at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer in September 2016, where I enjoyed seeing how commercial lawyers have a trusted advisory role and help businesses realise their commercial objectives, often by providing innovative solutions.

Therefore, I am applying for a vacation scheme with Kirkland & Ellis because of the firm's market-leading reputation in the private equity industry. I have a particular interest in this sector because private equity firms acquire a variety of companies, so as a trainee, I believe I would gain experience in various industries with companies at different stages of their lifecycle. Equally, private equity transactions tend to be completed in a shorter time frame, offering a greater exposure to deals as a trainee. Furthermore, the opportunity to learn from experienced partners, such as David Higgins and Adrian Maguire, who are recognised as some of the leading practitioners in their fields greatly appeals to me. This is because, in conjunction with Kirklands smaller trainee intake, this will ensure I receive the best training available and therefore will have the best opportunity to become a successful commercial lawyer.

My non-law work experience has also been helpful in developing the skills that will be useful in a career as a City solicitor. This was particularly so at Octagon last summer where, as a member of the sports agency department, I gained many useful insights from assisting clients with their enquiries, eliciting information from potential sponsors and researching possible clients. I learned the importance of clear communication and how to be both efficient and diplomatic while handling a number of different tasks at the same time.

Moreover, by meeting representatives of Kirkland & Ellis at the University of Nottingham Law Fair, I learned that having good communication and teamwork skills are vital to be a successful lawyer at the firm. I demonstrated these skills when I was Deputy Head Boy at St George's College, Weybridge. For instance, I organised a charity concert, Six Live to raise money for schools in the Congo. I coordinated with the other three school captains in finding a venue, designing the set and sourcing the musical acts. Moreover, I negotiated with a local sound equipment company for the use of their technical equipment which they agreed to hire out to us for no charge. As a result, we raised over £2000 for schools in the Congo, meaning the concert was the most successful charity concert in the school's history. This event, and others like it, were very helpful for my personal development as I became more confident in my ability as an effective negotiator and as an organiser, skills which are crucial to be a successful lawyer at Kirkland & Ellis.

These experiences typify my determination to not give up on my aspirations. I am looking to bring this ambition for collegial success to Kirkland & Ellis recognising that the firm focuses on this as a core principle.

I have enclosed a CV highlighting my education and work experience and look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

[Redacted name]

Please tell us what your proudest achievement is and why. This can be from any aspect of your life. (400 words)

My proudest achievement is representing England at junior international hockey and winning a national championship in the same season. When I was 16 years old, I just missed out on selection for the South-East of England hockey team and was frustrated as I thought I had played well in the trial matches. Although I was disappointed, my goal to represent England at junior international level did not change.

To make the necessary improvements to my game, I consulted with my school and club coaches and decided to change position from a forward to a defender. To make this successful transition, I had to coordinate with my coaches and train twice per week in 1-to-1 training and video sessions, as well as attending my 3 regular team training sessions. Moreover, I played matches twice per week in order to put these newfound skills into practice.

As a result of my hard work, I was selected to attend an England U17 trial and performed well enough to be selected for the England U17 squad. Subsequently, I was selected by my teammates and coaches to captain the England U17 Boys hockey team at the Sainsbury's School Games in September 2015, where I led the team to a silver medal. As an England Hockey captain, I was also proud to be awarded the Christopher Hunting Cup and the Claude Harper Cup in recognition of outstanding international representation in sport outside of college fixtures whilst at school.

Furthermore, I represented my club Surbiton in the same season, 2015-2016, where we attempted to win a national championship. I coordinated with my teammates and trained twice per week, as well as playing matches once per week. As a result, we qualified for the national final, played at the London Olympic Park, in May 2016. During the final, thanks to our preparation, we won on a penalty shootout, therefore winning the England Hockey Boys U18 National Championship for the first time in Surbiton’s history. Moreover, as a result of my performances throughout the season, I was awarded by my teammates and coaches the Surbiton Young Player of the Year 2015-2016.

My experience as an England hockey captain significantly improved my leadership skills but more importantly taught me the importance of not giving up on my ambitions. Moreover, playing in the final of a national championship taught me the importance of clear and concise communication in a high-pressure situation.

Please tell us about a recent commercial article or event that has attracted your attention. Please explain why it interested you, give your opinion on the opportunities and challenges that it might present to a law firm such as Kirkland & Ellis. (400 words)

A recent commercial event that has attracted my attention is the US-China trade war. It interests me because it could have a profound impact on global business and particularly on companies that import and export US and Chinese goods.

US companies that import Chinese goods now have to pay tariffs, so they have two choices: they can either absorb the cost or pass the cost onto consumers. If they absorb the cost, their profits will fall, which may cause them to cut jobs and restructure. If they pass the cost onto consumers, they risk damaging their reputation or seeing reduced sales, especially in cost-sensitive markets. Companies that export to China will also be impacted because of China's retaliatory tariffs. These tariffs mean that US goods will be more expensive to Chinese consumers. If exports fall, companies lose money, which can lead to fewer jobs and depressed wages.

In fact, it is the tremendous global impact of the US-China trade war which is what interests me most about this topic. For instance, uncertainty due to the trade war has caused turbulence in the stock market, with investors nervous by the conflict. This was demonstrated on August 14, 2019 when the Dow dropped 800 points, partly due to increasing trade tensions between the US and China. Moreover, the global manufacturing industry has suffered greatly because of the trade war, with countries such as Britain, Germany, Japan and South Korea, as well as the US, all showing a weak manufacturing performance in 2019.

In terms of the opportunities and challenges this might represent to law firms such as Kirkland & Ellis, the tough economic conditions would affect the fees that law firms can charge. China is a difficult market as it is, and many law firms have exited for lack of profitability. On the other hand, if the trade war causes China to open up, a flood of law firms may try to enter the country. Those law firms that are already positioned in the country, like Kirkland & Ellis, would benefit. This is because these law firms would have already established themselves in China and formed relationships with Chinese clients, consequently building their brands and acquiring local expertise. Therefore, for these reasons, if China opens up its market, these firms would find it easier to secure clients.

Why do you want to be a trainee solicitor in a transactional focused firm? (400 words)

I want to be a trainee solicitor in a transactional focused firm because I have realised that the complex, yet rewarding, nature of corporate law is something that very much appeals to me. I enjoy problem-solving and the fact that, as a lawyer, you are required to solve complicated issues for sophisticated clients. This was substantiated at a recent vacation scheme at Weil, Gotshal & Manges in July 2019 where I sat in the private funds team and observed the team's role in raising an infrastructure fund. I found it extremely interesting to witness how the partners carefully structured the fund to ensure its tax efficiency; it is this complexity within the profession that I believe makes law in a transactional focused firm more intellectually stimulating than other careers.

Therefore, following this placement, I want to be a transactional lawyer at Kirkland & Ellis because the firm has a wide-ranging commercial practice and a strong focus on M&A. More specifically, Kirkland & Ellis Tier 1 investment funds practice drew my attention as I believe this will lead to intriguing and complex legal work. Whilst at Weil, my interest in investment funds was confirmed as I saw how a fund’s lawyers work involves providing innovative solutions to complex issues for sophisticated clients. This interests me because, as a lawyer, I will need to be at the top of my game and will be pushed outside my comfort zone. Moreover, the opportunity to go on an international secondment to the firm’s offices in New York or Hong Kong is also important to me, as it would allow me to get further exposure to Kirkland & Ellis diverse client population across a broad geographic spread.

I also have a very strong work ethic and am constantly trying to improve and develop my skills. I have always been highly self-critical, both in an academic or professional sense and also in a sporting one. I believe it is crucial to be able to identify areas for improvement even when results are going well. I feel this characteristic is what has allowed me to represent England on an international stage in hockey. On a similar level, I value constructive criticism on my performance and the emphasis which Kirkland & Ellis places upon mentoring and feedback is therefore highly appealing.

Is there anything else you would like to add in support of your application? (200 words)

I would like to clarify the reason behind my lower performance in my A-levels.

During my A-levels, I was a part of the England Hockey AASE programme and the England U18 squad which meant I had to dedicate upwards of 20 hours per week training and travelling to and from the Lilleshall National Sports Centre amongst other locations. This meant that, despite my best efforts, my A-levels suffered.

However, whilst representing my country, I completed the 1st4sport Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Sports Performance and Excellence which was worth 85 UCAS points. This means that together with my other A-level results, my UCAS points total is 385 UCAS points, equivalent to grades of A*AA at A-level.

I achieved excellent GCSEs and am predicted a strong 2.1 degree, which demonstrates that my A-Levels, when judged on their own, are not representative of my academic ability. I hope the above is acceptable to you and that you will take this into account when reviewing my application.