Introducing Deborah
Deborah is an employment lawyer with significant experience of working in-house for Central government.
Can you describe your experience of working through Obelisk
I have loved the flexibility that is offered by Obelisk, and the fact that consultants always feel that they are part of a friendly and supportive team.
What makes your expertise unique?
Working through Obelisk has given me the space to combine PhD research with working as an employment lawyer. I am able to add an extra perspective to my employment law advice through my understanding of organisational psychology and culture which I have gained through my academic research about law firms and high performing workplaces.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of flexible working as a lawyer?
Constantly learning new things through meeting lots of different clients, building new relationships and sources of knowledge.
What’s the most challenging?
Making sure that I set enough time aside every day to ensure that I have proper catch ups with colleagues, so that I stay connected.
What are your proudest professional and personal achievements so far?
Professionally I’ve been able to continue my commitment to doing pro bono work. Widening access to legal advice is very important to me. My biggest personal achievement so far this year is getting the first draft of my PhD submitted.
How do you find the right work/life balance?
I love the accountability partner idea. So I have a few trusted colleagues who I get to hold me to account to make sure that I take quality time out from work on a daily basis.
What are your words of advice to other legal consultants?
Make sure that you stay connected, because it can be isolating working as a legal consultant. There are a wealth of networking and buddying options available – make use of them!
How do you start and end your day?
I do love my yoga, so if I can’t make it to a class I always do my sun salutations in the morning and evening.
If you had a superpower, what would it be?
I would love to be able to fly. I have worked with so many internationally based clients at Obelisk and I’ve often wondered what it would be like if at the drop of a hat I could avoid the wonders of Teams and Zoom by spreading my wings and flying over to meet them at the drop of a hat!
