Careers at Ogier: rising stars in our Guernsey team

Ogier is a growing firm that is constantly looking for new talent to join our international family and be part of our future. We are one of the few offshore firms to operate a full City-style training scheme for qualification as an English Solicitor– but besides qualifications and formal learning, we are also committed to creating a team of energetic, inquiring and dynamic minds. As a firm, we're proud of the investment we make in new talent and training, and also of the open, friendly, team-based culture that we have built. Here, four of our team give an insight into their experience of life at Ogier and our working culture:

Michelle Watson Bunn, Senior Associate*

Having trained, qualified and worked as a solicitor for Bird & Bird LLP London, I joined Ogier in 2015 as an associate and was promoted to a senior associate in 2017.

Not only did island living appeal to me (and my family), I was attracted by the top-quality work, high calibre clients and diverse range of transactions – whether they be pure corporate, funds or regulatory in nature – Ogier is involved in. These attributes have afforded me the opportunity to continue to gain excellent experience.

In addition, Ogier has enabled me to balance my work and family life where I can be at the beach within 10 minutes and enjoy the beautiful scenery Guernsey has to offer.

I can honestly say that no two days are the same and I am fortunate to work with a bright, friendly and supportive team. I look forward to continuing to develop and reach the next stage of my career with Ogier.

Caleb Holder, Associate*

After having practised in Australia for a few years I joined Ogier in August 2016 as an associate in the Guernsey Corporate and Funds team.

I was initially attracted to Ogier due to it being a well-known and respected offshore firm and its strong connections with the City. Since arriving it is now evident that Ogier is much more than a leading offshore firm. The collegiate environment and friendly open atmosphere has provided an opportunity for me to develop more effectively as a legal practitioner.

Outside of work Ogier has several social events which allow for someone new to the firm to connect with others on the island or within the wider firm. This was particularly useful to me as I had no particular connections or network on island.

The combination of working at Ogier and living in Guernsey has been a wonderful opportunity for me and my young family.

Charlotte Ward, Trainee Solicitor

I completed an LLB law degree at the University of Exeter but, as a Guernsey Girl at heart, I moved back to the island shortly after graduating in 2013.

I worked as a Paralegal at another law firm for just under two years before moving to Ogier in July 2015 because of the training opportunities, in particular their Training Scheme. The scheme is accredited by the Solicitors Regulation Authority which means that I will be able to qualify as a Solicitor in England and Wales whilst working from Guernsey. Ogier is one of only two law firms who can offer this in Guernsey.

As a Trainee Solicitor, I have the privilege of moving departments every six months. The best thing about this is the variety! Not only do I get the opportunity to work with most people in the office but I also get to practice different areas of law and receive training from experts in each field.

James Hewlett, Paralegal

I graduated in early 2017 from James Cook University, Australia with a degree in history and political science, returning to the island with the desire to pursue a career in law. I joined Ogier later that year as a paralegal in the Banking and Finance team.

Growing up in Guernsey, I have always been aware of Ogier's presence on the island, especially through their involvement in sport but it was their commitment to developing local talent that initially attracted me to them. Specifically, I am currently studying for my Graduate Diploma in Law whilst working, which would not be possible without Ogier's and the Banking and Finance team's continued support.

When I'm not studying, my daily work is highly varied. I assist on company migrations, real estate financing deals, share issuances, debt listings and facility agreement renewals, all of which provide great practical experience that complements my studies. I'm looking forward to taking the next step in my career with Ogier by becoming a trainee solicitor – edging ever closer to my goal of qualifying as an English Solicitor.

*not admitted in Guernsey

Find out more about job opportunities at Ogier here.

About Ogier

Ogier is a professional services firm with the knowledge and expertise to handle the most demanding and complex transactions and provide expert, efficient and cost-effective services to all our clients. We regularly win awards for the quality of our client service, our work and our people.

Disclaimer

This client briefing has been prepared for clients and professional associates of Ogier. The information and expressions of opinion which it contains are not intended to be a comprehensive study or to provide legal advice and should not be treated as a substitute for specific advice concerning individual situations.

Regulatory information can be found under Legal Notice