Why did you become a clerk?

I became a clerk largely by chance. My family runs a small cleaning company, and many of their clients are barristers’ chambers. A very well-respected clerk at one of those sets asked my mum what I planned to do after my GCSEs and mentioned a Junior Clerk role coming up at a friend’s chambers that would be perfect for a school leaver. The timing couldn’t have been better. I interviewed just after my 16th birthday and started a week later at 4 Essex Court — now Quadrant Chambers. And that’s where it all began… the start of the ‘Spice Boys’!

I’ve remained in clerking ever since — partly because it’s such a fast-paced, ever-changing environment, but also because it gives you the chance to build really strong, long-term relationships. What grabbed me early on was the variety. No two days are the same, and there’s a real sense that you’re right at the heart of things, helping individual barristers succeed and playing a part in the bigger picture of chambers. It’s a career that really values initiative, consistency, and people skills — and that’s always made it a genuinely rewarding path for me.

Many congratulations on your elevation to Deputy Senior Clerk. What the biggest gearshift you have noticed?

Thank you very much. The biggest shift for me has been the broader strategic focus the role now demands. While I’m still very much involved in day-to-day practice management and client relationships, there’s now a real emphasis on things like long-term planning, mentoring the team, and making sure our operational decisions support the bigger goals of chambers. There’s also a strong sense of responsibility — not just to keep things running smoothly, but to uphold and build on the high standards set by those who came before me.

This is a two-part question. What’s the best advice you’ve been given and what top three tips would you give any clerk looking to improve their reputation in the market?

Be proactive, not reactive.
Clerking often means juggling urgent requests and last-minute changes, so being reactive is part of the job. But the best advice I received was to always try to think two steps ahead — anticipate what’s coming, prepare in advance, and don’t just wait for problems to land on your desk. Being proactive helps you stay in control and deliver better outcomes for barristers and clients alike.

1. Be consistent.
Show up reliably, meet deadlines, and maintain a high standard in everything you do. People trust those who are dependable.

2. Build genuine relationships.
Take the time to get to know solicitors, barristers, and colleagues genuinely. Listen actively and communicate clearly — a good reputation often starts with being approachable and trustworthy.

3. Communicate clearly and proactively.
Be the person who keeps everyone in the loop before they even think to ask. Proactive communication builds trust and reduces last-minute surprises. Regular, clear updates show professionalism and help you stand out as reliable and indispensable.

Your chambers is one of the elite at the Bar. What has the focus been to sustain that standing?

There are many factors that contribute to maintaining such a reputable standing in the industry, but foremost among them is exceptional client service. To me, client service goes beyond politeness and punctuality, which, in many ways, should be a given. It’s a strategic, proactive commitment to understanding and exceeding client expectations. This dedication is what sustains long-term success and builds a strong reputation.

What’s the direction of travel for Quadrant in 2025?

Now, that would be telling 😉 Let’s just say Quadrant remains focused on strengthening its position as a leader in the legal market by building on its core strengths and values, all while maintaining the highest levels of client service. Our growth as a Chambers has reached a point where we’ve recently expanded into a new annex to accommodate our growing team and increasing workload. You will have seen the recent news regarding the arrival of Toby Chandler as a new Member of Chambers—a sign of Quadrant’s continued growth.

What’s been your greatest achievement both personally and professionally.

It’s a bit of a cliché, but without a doubt, my greatest personal achievement is my two children, Orla and Ellis. Watching them grow, learn, and develop into their own people is incredibly rewarding—and humbling. Being a parent has taught me so much about patience, perspective, and what really matters. It’s a constant learning experience and a bit of a merry-go-round at times, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Professionally, my promotion to Deputy Senior Clerk at Quadrant stands out as my greatest achievement to date. It’s the result of years of hard work and commitment—a lot of which often goes unseen—and I’m proud of the trust that’s been placed in me. The role brings new challenges and responsibilities, and I take real satisfaction in contributing to the continued success of Chambers, while supporting the growth and development of the team around me.

Name three things about yourself, two true and one false?

1. I once auditioned for The X Factor.

2. I’ve never had a cup of coffee in my life.

3. I was once shortlisted as a body double for Justin Timberlake.