Since graduating with an LLB in 2019, your career has taken an interesting turn. Can you tell us about your journey from law into the world of corporate affairs, and what prompted that shift?
My career has definitely moved in directions I never excepted while I was at UC! Storytelling and writing have always been a love of mine. My second career option coming into university was media and communications, but at the time I chose to stick with law.
I practiced as a lawyer for two years before making the career change. There's never a "perfect" time to try something new, but I was about to move to Australia, so I thought to myself – if not now, then when?
A lot of people around me were confused and saw it as a waste of my degree or a step backwards. But I knew in my heart where I wanted to be long-term. And anyway, if it wasn't the right move, I said "I do" in court and signed the Roll of Barristers and Solicitors – that’s not something that just disappears when you change jobs!
While still practising law, I began volunteering for a number of wonderful not-for-profits, including Dress for Success and UN Youth, to build skills in event management, social media, communications, content and marketing. I even designed a new website for my firm at the time. It was a way testing the waters and seeing what stuck.
After moving to Australia, I spent a short time in a PR agency before joining the Corporate Affairs team at top-tier law firm Clayton Utz, where I've been for the last three years.
I'm also nearly finished my Pilates teacher training which I plan to pursue on the side. It’s been such a fun creative outlet alongside my corporate career.
What does a typical day look like as External Communications Manager at Clayton Utz?
It varies a lot day to day. Typical tasks include drafting communications such as press releases, award submissions, speeches and video scripts, speaking with partners to find interesting angles for stories, pitching stories to media, reviewing articles, supporting with issues and risk management, helping with sponsorships or business partnerships, organising and attending media training sessions, supporting with social media… The list goes on. It's very diverse.
Have any found your law degree useful in your new career?
Absolutely! Because I work in a law firm, the content I'm dealing with can be quite technical. Being able to understand legal jargon and concepts makes it easier to distil complex content into plain English and to find the news-worthy and relevant stories within a topic to share with clients and the broader market.
Beyond that, my law degree has given me so many transferrable skills. Creative problem solving, strategic thinking, persuasive writing, negotiation, interviewing, project management, working under tight deadlines, and managing different personalities all apply far beyond legal practice. There are too many to name!
What do you enjoy most about your current role?
Not to sound cheesy, but definitely the people. I learn so much every day from our partners and legal teams, as well as the wonderful people I work alongside in Clients & Markets.
The diverse and interesting work is a big part of what I love about my role. I work with almost every practice area and department across the firm, so no two days are the same. It's so rewarding to be able to combine my creativity and love of storytelling with the law.
Looking back, what were some standout highlights from your time studying at UC?
I loved my time at UC! The friendships I made are of course a highlight, but I also remember the broader sense of community. Everyone at UC was welcoming, supportive and willing to help each other out.
I also loved the club culture. Being involved in events through Lawsoc added so much to my experience at UC, socially of course, but also in building networks and a sense of belonging.
What advice would you give to a new graduate as they look to begin their career?
Stay open minded and say yes to opportunities. You don't have to take a traditional pathway if it's not right for you. Careers aren't always linear and that's okay. It makes it interesting!
Most importantly, I'd say to always trust yourself – don't let others opinions dictate what you choose to do with your life and career.
