Alumni Matters 2024
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5 12月 2024
1m read
I am privileged to be taking over as a senior alumni ambassador as we publish the 2024 edition of Alumni Matters.
When Adrian Clough took on the role from John Farr, he noted there were big shoes to fill. These shoes have only got bigger. Over a five-year period, Adrian has committed a huge amount of energy and brought new insights to our alumni network making it more relevant than ever.
My life at the firm began in 1987 when, as a second year at university, I did a vacation scheme at what was then Herbert Smith. One of the trainees who looked after me was actually Adrian. My three weeks at the firm convinced me it was a place I would be happy to begin my legal career. 37 years later I have recently retired as a partner and the pull of the firm is still there as I take on a consultancy role.
As we continue to grow in Europe and Asia and, with our recently announced combination with Kramer Levin in New York, this international reach will continue to grow.
I always say that one of the best parties we host in London is our Grand Reunion Alumni event. When chatting at this event and to alumni at clients and sometimes during random path crossing in the street, I am always left with a positive feeling that HSF provides a foundation for everyone who spends time at the firm.
I often ask myself where I would be if I had not been fortunate to join the firm all those years ago and I am sure I am not alone in asking that question.
Having just taken on the alumni role, I have not had any involvement in the preparation of this edition. That is down to our amazing editors Kym and Olivia and to everyone who has so kindly given their time and input to this bumper edition.
When reading the proof, I was struck by how international the alumni network has become.
As we continue to grow in Europe and Asia and, with our recently announced combination with Kramer Levin in New York, this international reach will continue to grow.
I look forward to being reacquainted with many former colleagues and to meeting and hearing from many more around the world.
We are committed to making the Alumni Network as relevant and helpful as we can and feel free to contact me or others in the alumni team with your thoughts. We will always be pleased to hear from you, and if when reading this edition, you are inspired to tell your story, let us know.
Ben Ward
Features
Alumni Matters 2024
Start here
Introduction with Ben Ward
I am privileged to be taking over as a senior alumni ambassador
A view from Ho Chi Min City
There has been a transformation in Vietnam’s economy over the past three decades
Full AI immersion
'US top 40 under 40 lawyer’ Sam Clearwater explores the huge potential of AI
Partnering with the arts
Herbert Smith Freehills takes immense pride in our enduring partnerships with the arts
Blazing a trail in Australia
Reflections from Juliana Warner's 44 years at HSF
It's easy as ESG
Three alumni explore the plethora of ESG considerations businesses are facing
12 Questions with...Andy Raine
Deep dive into environmental law and his journey to the UN
Leading with a fresh perspective
Stefanie Wilkinson, Global GC of BHP, on managing a cross-country team for a large, complex business
In-house in-touch
The importance of really knowing your business
Calm amid the storm
HSF’s cyber risk offering: Help around the clock
The real importance of words
Maguelonne de Brugiere on the outstanding work of a charity that addresses verbal abuse of children
Networked for success
Helping young people foster skills for their future career
Lawyer to founder
Tara Grossman and Srin Madipalli have struck out into business, with their primary ambition to do good
Why I came back
Benjamin Lohr on what brought him back to HSF
Boardroom discussions
After 30 years on company boards, Nora Scheinkestel imparts wise advice on how to build a career as a non-executive director
Firm highlights 2024
Legal Notice
The contents of this publication are for reference purposes only and may not be current as at the date of accessing this publication. They do not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Specific legal advice about your specific circumstances should always be sought separately before taking any action based on this publication.
© Herbert Smith Freehills 2024
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