Allen & Overy

Jane Wooding

I think it's a real advantage that trainees are able to request the core practice area where they wish to spend the first six months of their training contacts. This provides an immediate indication of A&O's commitment to providing choice and flexibility to its individual trainees. Banking was my preference and working in the Global Loans group provided a fascinating introduction to A&O, and specifically gave me a clear insight into the workings of the banking sector and the related legal knowledge and skills required from a firm like A&O.

The nature of banking transactions vary enormously both in size and complexity. I have worked on discrete property finance transactions based solely in England and on large-scale projects involving twenty or so jurisdictions across the globe. The needs of the client also  greatly differ and whilst, at a simple level, it is clear that our advice must be tailored to whether the client is the borrower or lender, each client's case is remarkably unique and subsequently requires a specific and innovative solution to suit its circumstances.

My involvement has increased greatly over the past six months. I have recently been given the opportunity to manage several small scale new money transactions requiring direct client contact and, by contrast, I have just instructed and begun to co-ordinate overseas counsel for a complex restructuring deal. I have also carried out several legal research tasks and contributed to A&O's general information database.

Whilst working in my current department, the HR for Trainees team provided information and support through a department open evening and one-to-one meetings in order to help me set out my seat plan for the remainder of my training contract. This, coupled with the friendly and open environment within my department and the trainee buddy system, means that I have been able to ask a multitude of questions and identify exactly which departments I would like to spend my remaining seats in. The support provided by A&O is also mirrored in the level of education and training all trainees receive. On arrival in each new department there are induction lectures and seminars whilst, over the two years, there is also the organisation and management of the Professional Skills Course.

Overall, the balance of each of these aspects has made my first six months at A&O very interesting and a challenging, rewarding experience.  I'm really enjoying it!