Robert Eden
Job Title: Partner
Location: Oxford
Having finished College of Law in July 1994 things didn’t look too good! A combination of no training contract and ratio of “applicants to jobs” being ridiculously high meant that things were looking particularly bleak! I heard horror stories from peers who had submitted hundreds and hundreds of applications for a training contract with no success so it was with some trepidation when I started down this route! A speculative application for a training contract to Bower Bailey in May 1996 would change things.
From job application to interview to offer and then to starting at Bower Bailey took about 4 weeks! That is testament to the decisive nature that runs through the firm and for me it was the start of many, many happy years.
I was given responsibility at a very early stage in my training contract but always had the knowledge that I could ask senior people for advice and that was fundamental to my development. I would like to think I give the trainees I supervise a similar level of guidance and responsibility as the trainees and the junior lawyers are fundamental to the growth and success of the firm.
Having qualified in June 1998 into the property team I quickly built up a loyal client following most notably in the London and the Oxfordshire area. Bower Bailey is a genuine meritocracy and rewards people who make positive impact and I was fortunate to be made a partner quite quickly.
Bower Bailey is an excellent employer and the Oxford office is a very friendly place to work. There are no “airs and graces” and there is a genuine team spirit.
Oxford was and still is a great place to be starting out your career as a trainee solicitor. It’s not bad as you get older too, as it has all the useful things that you don’t think about when you’re a trainee such as good schools and a good golf club!
Favourite song: Frank Sinatra My Way
Favourite food: Anything my wife cooks (that should ensure decent dinner for the next x months)
Favourite place: Villa Park
Favourite book: Kevin Keegan Book of Soccer Skills
Favourite film: Re-run of the 1982 European Cup Final
