The word from overseas
We’ve just returned from ten hectic but rewarding days visiting clients (and pubs) in the UK and Dubai. On the itinerary were twelve meetings with magic circle, international and UK firms as well as several informal catch-ups with Australian lawyers who, having been overseas for a few years, were contemplating options back home. Busy!
The backdrop to every meeting on this trip however was the impending “Brexit” referendum being held in the UK on June 23rd. Interestingly, the overwhelming mood of those employed in the city (particularly in the professional services sector which is the backbone of the London economy) was for the UK to remain as a part of the European Union. Only a few weeks ago, the “Remain” vote seemed a shoe-in, however recent polling and every headline in the media suggested that the vote was going to be a lot closer than initially anticipated.
Either way, it was patently apparent that the referendum has impacted recruitment across the city generally. In law firms, capital markets work, as well as a lot of corporate work, has for the past several months flat-lined and it seemed that things were still likely to remain cautious in the immediate aftermath of the result. That said, there has, and it seems always will be an appetite on the part of UK firms who are looking for quality Australian lawyers (especially those with big firm training).
And while it was a very brief visit to Dubai, the feeling remains that there are still plenty of work options for lawyers in the Middle East. This is particularly so in the construction, projects (finance) and property practices.
If you are considering a move overseas, please contact either of us, or consider coming along to our next sponsored event that we are hosting with the Queensland Young Lawyers Association on Thursday 4 August (details to follow). The evening will explore in more detail how to take your legal career overseas – everything from visas, what practice groups are busy, relocation packages, salaries and the best places to live and work depending on what you want to get from life overseas.
CONCLUSION
At Peppercorn Recruitment, our Partners are both former lawyers and have a combined two decades of legal recruitment experience. We have provided frank, honest and pragmatic advice to many lawyers over their careers on matters such as negotiating salaries, drafting CVs, interview tips and tricks and of course, changing jobs.
We hope you find this a useful point of reference in your career planning, but should you wish to have a confidential discussion about how we can help, please contact either Peter or Ross. We’re happy to help!