Chat OMP

In this episode of Chat OMP, William Peake, Global Managing Partner, and Ian Mann, Dubai Managing Partner, delve into the strategic launch of our Dubai office, and the region's dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem. They underscore our dedication to supporting local firms by focusing exclusively on our core offshore specialisms, avoiding competition with onshore providers. The conversation also explores the vital role of cultural sensitivity and fostering trust-based relationships for success in the Middle East's distinctive business environment.

In this episode of Chat OMP, William Peake, our Global Managing Partner, and Nicola Roberts, our Jersey Managing Partner, discuss her professional journey across continents, her strong connection to Jersey, and her pivotal role in establishing our new office there. They reflect on the firm’s successful entry into the market and examine why Jersey remains a stable and highly trusted jurisdiction.

In this episode of Chat OMP, William Peake chats with Carolynn Vivian, our Cayman Islands Office Managing Partner, about her experiences in the role over the past year. They discuss the challenges of transitioning from legal micromanagement to broader leadership, the unique dynamics of managing a diverse workforce in Cayman, and the highlights of fostering a welcoming and culturally vibrant office environment. 

In this episode, William Peake and Paul Sephton discuss the 20th anniversary of our Hong Kong office, reflecting on two decades of growth and the office’s recent accolade from HR Asia as one of the “Best Companies to Work for in Asia”. Paul highlights the office’s growth and employee-focused initiatives like wellness programs and engagement committees and shares insights on authentic business development for long-term client relationships.

In this episode, William Peake and Pavlos Aristodemou explore leadership challenges, data utilisation, and business development in a global context. They discuss the importance of fostering trust, understanding clients' needs, and promoting jurisdictions effectively in the legal sector. Pavlos highlights the value of long-term relationship-building and adapting to new tools like LinkedIn to enhance client engagement.

In this episode, Rachel discusses managing her multifaceted role, from mentoring junior lawyers and leading the Transactional practice in the EMEA region to balancing life as a working parent. She reflects on becoming a more trusting leader, the value of collaboration across practices and our offices, and the importance of accepting imperfection when managing work-life balance. She also highlights London’s dynamic role in global offshore legal services, underscoring our ability to adapt to diverse client needs.

William and Henry explore Bermuda’s growing success, fuelled by its balanced regulatory framework, easy access to New York, and a local environment that fosters opportunity. Henry introduces his "pick up a shovel" philosophy, championing decisive action and practical problem-solving to deliver the best results. They also highlight the importance of questioning conventional wisdom in law firms, advocating for fresh, innovative approaches to tackle complex challenges.

In this episode, William and Lishi explore her legal career path, highlighting her decision to study in London, which shaped her adaptability and professional growth. They discuss the challenges and nuances of being a managing partner, including balancing approachability with authority, handling responsibilities beyond legal work, and the daily realities of leadership.

In the final episode of season one, William chats with Carolynn Vivian our Cayman Islands Office Managing Partner, about her career journey from Sydney to Cayman, including requalifying in Vancouver. Carolyn highlights the importance of staff development and Cayman’s role as a global financial centre. She also shares helpful advice for junior lawyers about the importance of cultivating curiosity, teamwork, and organisational skills.

In this episode, Shanghai Managing Partner Vicky Lord reflects on her career path from criminal barrister in London to leading our Shanghai office. Vicky discusses the importance of teamwork and responsibility in managing a successful office and shares helpful advice for junior lawyers about always continuing to learn. She highlights the strategic significance of the Shanghai office in serving Chinese clients using offshore structures, stressing the value of communication in their local languages.

In the seventh episode of our Chat OMP podcast, William Peake interviews Pavlos Aristodemou, managing partner of our Cyprus office. Pavlos shares his unique journey at Harneys, including the evolution of the Cyprus office from a small boutique firm to an official Harneys location. He highlights the essential skills required to excel as a managing partner, drawing parallels to being the skipper of a boat, and offers valuable advice to junior lawyers on the importance of consistency.

In the sixth episode of Chat OMP, William interviews Vanessa Molloy, managing partner of the Luxembourg office. Vanessa shares her 24-year career journey in Luxembourg, detailing the strategic evolution of the jurisdiction and its appeal to American and Asian investors. She highlights the importance of adding value to clients, the benefits of Luxembourg's adaptable legal framework, and offers helpful advice for junior lawyers on career success.

In this episode, Paul Sephton shares his experience from being a magic circle trainee to becoming our Hong Kong managing partner. He highlights our collaborative ethos and shares why Hong Kong is a pivotal gateway to China. He also gives some helpful advice to aspiring lawyers, stressing the importance of confidence and authenticity in the industry. 

In our fourth episode, William welcomes Rachel Graham, our London office managing partner. She shares her experience practising law globally and transitioning into her current leadership role. Rachel discusses what makes London a pivotal hub for the offshore world and offers some helpful advice for junior lawyers.

In our third episode, William Peake sits down with BVI Managing Partner Tanya Cassie-Parker as she reflects on her journey with Harneys and the growth and evolution of Harneys and the British Virgin Islands. It’s a wonderful journey covering compelling advice to younger lawyers and quite possibly the best fictional dinner party imaginable.

In our second episode, William sits down with Bermuda Managing Partner Henry Tucker, who shares his legal journey that took him to London, Hong Kong, and the BVI before finally returning home to manage our Bermuda office in 2023. He also chats about why Bermuda is a leading offshore centre, the tricks to managing a practice and being an OMP, and he shares advice for junior lawyers starting their careers.

In our first episode, William sits down with Singapore Managing Partner Lishi Fong who joined Harneys in 2019. Lishi shares her career journey, what it’s like working and living in Singapore, and the challenges of managing your personal and professional life as a lawyer.Learn more about Lishi here: https://www.harneys.com/people/lishi-fong/