Insider report Macfarlanes LLP
Aaliyah Sattar completed Macfarlanes’ vacation scheme in summer 2020. She will commence her training programme at the firm in September 2022.
No of scheme places 55
What did you do while on the virtual vacation scheme? The firm used a platform called HighQ Collaborate, designed to mirror an on-site interactive experience. For instance, alongside an instant messaging service, we could post threads on a virtual noticeboard to start conversations with peers and staff. This minimised the differences between a virtual and in-person scheme. Over the two weeks, we attended presentations by various teams. Practice area talks were followed by case studies to help us understand the work in practice. Other presentations included the firm’s work on inclusion and CSR, innovation and legal technology. I was allocated two weeklong seats in the corporate and M&A, and tax and reward groups. For each seat, I was assigned a trainee supervisor who offered invaluable insight into the firm and explained the tasks. I completed mock tasks modelled on real trainee responsibilities. For instance, I prepared advice surrounding the completion of an acquisition, as well as complete stock transfer forms and stamp duty applications to HMRC. These were technically challenging yet enjoyable. Alongside this, we worked on a mock negotiation transaction. In two teams, we negotiated the terms of a contract for a sponsorship agreement, then we had a final showdown. Graduate recruitment and the two partners overseeing the scheme joined us for the final negotiation. This was enthralling and allowed us to network with our cohort on a more personal basis. I also enjoyed taking part in virtual socials. What did you feel that you gained from the placement? I gained invaluable insights into the firm’s culture and working environment. We had opportunities to network with a range of people across different levels. Everyone was friendly and willing to answer questions. This reflects the firm’s culture and affirmed it is somewhere I would love to work. Further, alongside gaining a better understanding of what role trainees have in different practice areas, I acquired technical knowledge in areas of tax and M&A, which was interesting and took me by surprise! Which were the most enjoyable – and most challenging – aspects of the virtual scheme? I enjoyed the catch-ups and feedback sessions with my trainee supervisors – they were friendly, welcoming and went through my tasks in detail. They also offered tips on how to make the most of the scheme. I enjoyed the inclusion and CSR talk; this is close to my heart and to hear the firm is pioneering in various projects was inspiring and encouraging. Balancing my time and staying on top of tasks and other commitments was challenging. Did the scheme end with a training contract interview or some other kind of further recruitment process? At the end we were assessed for the training programme. We completed a written task, alongside a commercial in-tray exercise and a partner interview. Graduate recruitment gave us plenty of opportunity to ask any questions regarding the assessments. Is there one key thing that you took away from the experience that you would pass on as advice to others? Make the most of the opportunities and remain engaged and attentive. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself – remind yourself how well you have done to earn a spot on the scheme and focus on doing your best!
Location of schemes London
Length of schemes 2 weeks
Remuneration (per week) £400
Dates of schemes Spring: 4 April – 14 April 2022 Summer: 27 June – 8 July 2022 11 July – 22 July 2022 Closing date for applications Monday 3 January 2022 Application procedure Online application via our website www.macfarlanes.com/ join-us followed by an assessment day For full contact information and details of training programme, see the firm’s full entry in the main directory on p326
Remember to cite The LawCareers.Net Handbook on your application form if you apply to this law firm.
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WORK EXPERIENCE
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