2025
Why have you decided to pursue a career at a commercial law firm and why would you like to do this at Trowers & Hamlins? (250 words)
I am pursuing a career in commercial law because it offers constant opportunities to learn and new challenges. Businesses are affected by evolving political, financial, and social factors, meaning clients will always require creative legal advice and solutions. In 2017, I completed work experience at Allen & Overy LLP in the [blank] practice, which exposed me to the fast-paced, varied nature of legal work and encouraged my pursuit of this career. Following university, I gained further experience at [local regional firm]; I observed a wider range of practice areas from Restructuring & Insolvency to Real Estate, where I drafted an Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement for a client. I particularly enjoyed working with different teams, reinforcing my desire to begin a legal career in [city].
I want to work at Trowers & Hamlins because of the firm’s reputation in Affordable Housing, presence in the Middle East, and welcoming culture. I attended an Insight Day in the [city] office; I was impressed by the interesting work done, including acting as Tower Hamlets Council’s sole legal adviser in a flagship regeneration project. Additionally, I am drawn to Trowers’ supportive culture, which was demonstrated in talks from [partners from this office] who seemed genuinely passionate about mentoring juniors, and from speaking to current trainees. The firm’s presence in the Middle East is also attractive to me, as I have a family member who practices law in [country in the UAE], and I would be eager to complete a seat there.
Who are our main competitors and how do we differentiate ourselves from them? (250 words)
The legal market is highly competitive, but Trowers & Hamlins (Trowers) differentiate themselves from competing firms through their international presence, diverse client base and innovative projects.
In the West Midlands, Trowers are ranked Band 1 by the Legal 500 for their Local Government work. Anthony Collins Solicitors are also ranked in Band 1 for this, as well as Social Housing, for which they are ranked higher than Trowers. However, although Anthony Collins is a well-regarded firm with a strong reputation in the Midlands, Trowers are able to differentiate themselves through their established presence across the UK, meaning they can offer expertise to a broader range of clients. Additionally, Anthony Collins largely focuses on public sector and non-profit clients, whereas Trowers acts for a wide range of both public and private sector clients. This also means they have unique insight into both sectors and can therefore offer more comprehensive advice.
Bevan Brittan are another competitor of Trowers, with both firms ranked Band 1 nationally in Local Government by Chambers and Partners. The firm is known for working with public sector clients and large institutions, like the NHS. Trowers differentiate themselves through the broader range of services they offer, including in specialist areas like Islamic Finance; this means they can build and maintain stronger, long-term relationships with clients by offering them legal advice in any area they may require. Trowers also distinguish themselves through their international presence, particularly in the Middle East, enabling them to provide clients with cross-jurisdictional support.
Describe a recent commercial news story that interested you and explain how it relates to Trowers & Hamlins. (250 words)
Following the new government’s promise to build 1.5 million new homes, a proposed development by Persimmon Homes has been challenged by Cambridgeshire County Council for failing to provide sufficient funding for a new school, in accordance with Section 106 planning obligations. I find this story compelling as it demonstrates the many hurdles faced by large-scale housing developments, and the need for comprehensive legal advice at every stage of the process to ensure a project runs smoothly.
This story relates to Trowers & Hamlins due to the services they provide, the sectors they work within, and the clients they act for. Trowers are known both for their Affordable Housing and Construction work, and for frequently acting on behalf of local councils, such as recently advising Liverpool City Council on the acquisition of a brownfield site for regeneration. They have also worked with housebuilders and developers like Vistry Group and Lovell Partnerships. It is therefore essential for Trowers to be aware of any issues arising in regeneration or development projects so they can use their expertise across practice areas to provide comprehensive, current advice, whether acting on behalf of a council or housebuilder. Additionally, due to the government’s focus on building new homes and repurposing brownfield sites, this is an area continuing to grow significantly, creating opportunities to attract new clients for Trowers, requiring proactivity in monitoring trends and opportunities. For example, their work advising local councils and developers can ensure compliance with Section 106 obligations, enabling projects to move forward efficiently.
Please tell us about your interests, extra-curricular activities and achievements you're particularly proud of.
A recent achievement I am proud of was my participation in the [national conference] in February 2024. I was asked to speak on a panel about [a product] that I was part of a ten-year clinical study for. Speaking in front of a large crowd about personal experiences, answering unprepared questions, and being interviewed for the [scientific journal] were experiences which pushed me out of my comfort zone; however, I overcame my nerves. I enjoyed meeting attendees and developing my communication skills in a new forum.
In my spare time, I am passionate about learning languages. I continued my [language] A-Level studies by taking a [language] module during my degree, and also participating in the [2nd language] Society. Following university, I have been learning [3rd language] to continue this interest. This also connects with my love of reading and literature; my long-term goal is to read my favourite books in the original [3rd language].
In my previous role at a small local business, I enjoyed the work we did outside of our usual duties, related to local outreach efforts. A significant part of this business was acting as a community space, hosting weekly groups for the elderly, new mothers, and a youth club supporting SEN children and their parents. I enjoyed assisting with these initiatives by promoting them, encouraging donations from customers, and building relationships with frequent attendees. As a trainee solicitor, I would be eager to continue to support my community in [my local area].
2024
Why have you decided to pursue a career at a commercial law firm and why would you like to do this at Trowers & Hamlins? (250 words)
The fusing of business considerations with legal advice attracts me to commercial law. This interest was sparked by participating in The Aspiring Solicitors programme where I gained exposure to the work of a M&A lawyer at Pinsent Masons. I enjoyed understanding the multi-faceted aspects of transactional law which involved many different stakeholders and different challenges for each. The balancing of all these interests required a creative approach and I enjoyed the complexity of this. To develop my interest, I became a Commercial Awareness Analyst as part of the Strive Supernova programme, which aims to help socially mobile candidates to enter the legal profession. I write monthly articles critically analysing commercial events. Recently, I wrote an article analysing the influence of artificial intelligence on the music industry. This article was greatly received by my peers as it was useful to their understanding of commercial issues.
The firm has earned a strong reputation because of its quality of work. Trowers has been recognized as being a top law firm in areas such as Property and Corporate and Finance. Awards of this calibre assure clients of the firm’s expertise as a result the firm boasts a large proportion of returning clients. This reflects the high level of legal and sector knowledge that Trowers lawyers possess which I will be able to learn from as a trainee. Furthermore, Trowers is a market leader in the Northwest, this attracts me as I wish to remain in [city] and deliver impact to the local community.
Who are our main competitors and how do we differentiate ourselves from them? (300 words)
Clyde & Co is a strong competitor of Trowers within Real Estate. Trowers differentiates itself by having a stronger standing on Social Housing, where it is ranked Band 1 by Chambers & Partners, in comparison to Clyde & Co, which ranks Tier 2. This distinction is underlined further by Trowers' Band 1 and Band 2 ranking in all parts of England, it is the only firm to hold this. Trowers’ unique approach with its focus on ‘real economy’ because of their unique perspective on the invaluableness of real estate due to its impact on the local community which is especially pertinent in the Social Housing sector. The acknowledgement of the impact real estate has on community is a great motivator which is what has driven Trowers’ to the top of this sector. Therefore, it is their culture which is their main differentiator, and this cannot be replicated by another firm.
Another competitor of Trowers is Shakespeare Martineau (SM). Both firms are ranked Tier 2 by The Legal 500 for Islamic Finance. Trowers differentiates itself due to its international strategy, which gives it greater access to Islamic Finance clients. For example, due to Trowers’ commitment to growing Islamic Finance in Malaysia, it was the first UK firm to be granted a licence to practice there. This is unlike SM who only have offices in the UK and rely on associations with overseas law firm, this narrows the scope of their international presence meaning that Trowers’ can reach more clients.
Describe a recent commercial news story that interested you and explain how it relates to us? (250 words)
The CMA approved Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard after 21 months of scrutiny. The decision to approve the acquisition has now been challenged by the FTC. I find this news item fascinating because there are so many factors to consider when making an acquisition. This topic is particularly relevant to law firms such as Trowers and Hamlins, as it signifies a heightened focus on regulatory compliance. This is due to a consistent rise in the amount of mergers and acquisitions that the European Commission and the CMA are blocking, as reported by White & Case.
The several jurisdictions in which Microsoft operates and the varying regulatory compliance requirements for each made this acquisition particularly complicated. This presents an opportunity for Trowers to capitalise on their international presence and advise overseas clients on UK regulations. This is especially important since the UK government has stated their intention to widen the jurisdiction included in the Competition Act. Trowers already has significant experience in advising in cross border transactions as seen in the recent acquisition of CCL UK by the US based Impact Environmental Group.
Trowers can also aim to stay ahead of the game by proactively monitoring and assessing trends in regulatory scrutiny, establishing themselves as a one-stop shop for clients. One of Trowers objectives is to be driven by innovation and be solution- driven, being able to provide clients with necessary information in advance presents an opportunity to get ahead of rival law firms.
Please tell us about your interests, extracurricular activities and achievements that you’re particularly proud of. (250 words)
I play badminton regularly as part of a team in my local area. I have utilised this hobby to set up charity matches to help the local community, focusing on various charities such as Sepsis Trust and food banks. This is another reason Trowers’ appeals to me as I would like to work in [city] and continue to deliver impact to my local community.
I currently hold the [name of a donor] scholarship in recognition of my high attainment within my first year at university. I was one of the first recipients of the Janus Henderson Undergraduate scholarship in recognition of my potential to pursue a corporate career and the barriers of entry that lie ahead for those of my background.
I am very passionate about EDI and currently sit as the only undergraduate representative on the [University] EDI committee, this role requires me to the voice opinions of other students and drive change through creating new initiatives to help disadvantaged students; I am currently helping to create a scholarship fund to assist disabled students.
2022
Questions (250 words max)
1. Who are our main competitors and specifically demonstrate how we differentiate from the firms you name.
As it relates to international, mid-sized firms, Pinsent Masons and Eversheds Sutherland pose as direct competitors to Trowers & Hamlins’ reputable global practice. However, what differentiates Trowers & Hamlins is their overall approach to the real economy.
The firm has carved out a niche where commerce, communities and culture intersect. This means, unlike its competitors, having as much of an impact on the public sector as in the private sector. The firm's top-ranked real estate practice is comprised of band-one social housing and local government teams that have contributed to the regeneration of communities. For example, the firm advised Bath and North East Somerset Council on a £160 million regeneration project of Bath Quays North that provides 200,000 square feet of office space, 1,900 new jobs and over 70 new houses. A positive development for the local economy influenced by Trowers & Hamlins commitment to, and expertise in, the real economy.
Furthermore, its public sector presence together with its robust commercial property teams, highlighted by its Middle East investment practice, has lifted the firm to the top in terms of proportion of firm-wide revenue property represents. Recent research suggests that there is a 60% increase of Middle East investment into prime UK areas. This is an opportunity in which the firm can introduce its Middle Eastern clients to the abundant opportunities in UK real estate. Whilst its competitors focus on the private sphere, the firm's forward-thinking approach in the both sectors will increasingly prove advantageous as demand in both grows.
2. What makes you particularly suited to a career at Trowers & Hamlins compared to other applicants?
My ability to communicate with any audience and my interests in international work makes me well-suited for a career at Trowers & Hamlins. The firm’s longstanding presence in the Middle East demonstrates its ability to connect with a diverse network. As a Camp Counsellor for YMCA, I led recreational activities for children aged 5-12 years old. As a caller for the University of [redacted] Alumni Relations, I negotiated long-term monetary contributions with alumni and parents. I worked closely with clients that had Alzheimers or Dementia as a Recreational Assistant for North York Seniors Centre. These experiences of interacting in a wide-range of environments has prepared me for the opportunity to adapt to the variety of commercial settings the firm engages in.
Having five international offices and being a member of Interlaw demonstrates the firm's commitment to cross-border work. As a legal writer and researcher at Mann Symons LLP, I discovered I enjoy engaging in work that has a multi-jurisdictional dimension. For example, I analysed a presentation on cross border issues in IT and narrowed down issues in localisation, intellectual property, taxes, and jurisdictional boundaries. Conducting legal research and analysis to determine important factors that multi-national companies should consider before finalising IT contracts was intellectually challenging yet exciting work. A career at Trowers & Hamlins would afford me opportunities to collaborate with its international network and allow me to pursue my interest in international legal work. I believe my experiences would be instructive within a career at Trowers & Hamlins.
3. Describe a recent news article you've read (except for Brexit) and explain how it relates to us?
A recent Financial Times article I read concerned the UK's housing crisis. There is a severe lack of long-term housing strategy, particularly a way to make renting viable and affordable. This housing crisis specifically impacts senior people, where there is an estimated 1.7 million senior people that live in unsuitable houses where they cannot adequately move around or live in houses that are overcrowded. While the government is actively trying to fill the gap between seniors living at home and moving into a more dedicated care facility, the article suggests that the state should be more involved. For example, lowering property tax for existing residents and funding more infrastructure are possible solutions to tackle this critical issue. As the population is continuously aging, this contributes to increasing demand in the housing and social care sector.
Being a leader in real estate law, this is an excellent opportunity for Trowers & Hamlins to engage and expand their services in this sector. The firm recently advised Affordable Housing & Healthcare Group, a housing and health care developer, on a £60m loan from OakNorth Bank in order to fund retirement homes in three parts of the UK. Working across multi-disciplines on this case, the firm demonstrated their expertise in both private and public sectors and their capability to successfully support this sector's expansion. This news speaks to the opportunity Trowers & Hamlins has before them to continue to capitalise on this demand through the delivery of their top-ranked legal services in this area.
4. Give us as wide an insight into you as possible without referring to anything you have already mentioned in this application.
My interest in event-planning is demonstrated by my involvement and leadership in university societies. As Social Media VP for [redacted overseas university’s] Chocolate Club, I organised and promoted events, such as bake sales, dessert nights, and candy grams for special events. Working closely with the marketing and graphic design team, I reviewed posters, event blurbs, and marketing propositions before publicising them online. I planned and implemented a Chocolate Tasting Crawl, where students paid a fee to experience speciality items from four dessert restaurants. The success from this event helped raise £500 in one term.
These experiences led me to become the Committee Events Coordinator for [redacted] Foundation and Social Secretary for the [redacted] Society at the University of [redacted]. As Events Coordinator, I organised social and charity events like movie nights, raffles, and quiz nights throughout the year. Currently as Social Secretary, I collaborate with a team of five to design and promote events such as mixers, hockey games, and holiday themed events. I successfully acquired food and drink deals with an on-campus venue and collaborated with them to reserve space for the inaugural mixer event. I designed an event poster, promoted, and sold tickets for a Coventry Blaze vs. Nottingham Panthers hockey game on behalf of the society. I negotiated a discount on tickets which allowed students to pay £8 instead of £18 per ticket and helped raise £150 for the society through this event. I look forward to organising more events for the benefit of the society.
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