There are some
things you should
know about us
before you apply.
Progress with purpose
Contents
Your work
Your progress
Your next steps
Overview of programmes
08
The work you will do
26
Getting prepared
40
First chances to connect
10
The big deal
27
Application process
42
Vacation schemes
12
Global practice areas
30
Interviews and assessments
43
Law school
15
Our industry sectors
32
Dates and deadlines
44
Your training contract
16
Our working culture
35
Keep in touch
47
Trainee development
18
Things to get involved in
36
Your secondment
21
Career-long development
22
Welcome
Hello and welcome to Norton Rose Fulbright. I’m the trainee recruitment partner here, and I know how hard the
decision you’re about to make is. To choose the right legal practice for you, you need to know as much about your
potential choices as possible. In this brochure, we’ve focused on the things you should definitely know about us.
For a start there is our global reach, and the pioneering strategy that makes our business so progressive and that
will offer you international opportunities throughout your career. There is also the quality of the work we do
for major clients, which means you’ll be part of landmark transactions and cases that cross jurisdictions and often
make the headlines.
Our inclusive culture is worth knowing about too, as is the exceptional training that will support your long-term
progress. And, of course, there is everything we’ll expect from you, during your training contract and beyond.
You’ll find more on all of this as you go through the brochure, along with lots of useful advice and tips. If it inspires
you to become part of everything that we are achieving here, then I look forward to working with you.
Jonathan Ball
Trainee recruitment partner
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 03
At a glance
100
trainees
Your training contract
Year 1
Year 2
4 seats
in London
At a gl
£41k
£46k
International and client
secondments
Our practice areas Key industry sectors
• Banking and finance
Financial institutions
Transport
Energy
Technology and innovation
Infrastructure, mining
and commodities
Life sciences and healthcare
• Corporate, M&A and securities
• Dispute resolution and litigation
• Intellectual property
• Antitrust and competition
• Employment and labour
• Real estate
Some key clients
• Tax
• AIG • Barclays Bank • BMW • BP • Deutsche Bank • GlaxoSmithKline • HSBC
• Regulation and investigations
• McLaren Group • Rio Tinto Group • Standard Chartered Bank • Vodafone
04 Progress with purpose
At a glance
50+
Global reach
7400
people
offices
6
ance
3800+
lawyers
worldwide
continents
First chances
to connect
•U
niversity managers • Open days
•F
irst step • Vacation schemes
Things to get involved in
Application dates
• 14+ social clubs including athletics, football, sailing and yoga • Pro bono
•W
inter vacation scheme
apply from 1 October 2015
• Employee networks • CSR initiatives • Award-winning choir • Volunteering
•S
ummer vacation schemes
apply from 1 November 2015
Industry awards
•T
raining contract
apply from 1 December 2015
Global energy firm of the year, Who’s Who Legal 2014
•O
pen days
apply from 1 November 2015
apply from 1 February 2016
Global mining firm of the year, Who’s Who Legal 2014
Best performing legal brand, Managing Partners’ Forum for Management
Excellence 2014
Top 3 global elite brand leader, Acritas Sharplegal, Global Elite Brand Index 2014
• First step
apply from 1 February 2016
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 05
Essential advice #1
Five things to ask yourself
Before reading about our programmes in more detail, take a minute to ask yourself
these five questions. They will help you work out if you are right for us and,
of course, if we are right for you.
Do I have a global outlook?
Our reach is worldwide, as are the careers we offer. Almost all of the work here has an international aspect.
You should expect considerable international exposure as part of your training contract
and beyond. Does this appeal?
Am I ready to get involved?
The more you put in here, the more you will get out – and we’re not just talking about how hard you work.
Getting involved means asking questions, meeting people, embracing opportunities and being curious about
your work, your colleagues and our clients.
Am I open-minded?
By this, we mean are you eager to broaden your experience? Your career here could go in any number
of directions, and you must be adaptable and adventurous enough to make the most
of every opportunity, wherever it is.
Am I more than just academically strong?
We look for sharp and agile thinkers with strong interpersonal skills and impressive academic records.
However, the lawyers who do best here are commercial thinkers too.
Am I thinking long term?
You are just starting out, so we will not expect you to have a vision of your future already laid out.
However, it is important that you are thinking about, and are committed to, building a career that lasts.
For more valuable tips, go to ‘Essential advice’ on nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com
06 Progress with purpose
Your progress
Your progress
From the insight you will gain
when you first meet us, through
to the training that will be there
throughout your career, your
progress will be our focus. In this
section, we’ll look at our various
programmes and how you could
move forward with us.
07
Overview of programmes
08
First chances to connect
10
Vacation schemes
12
Law school15
Your training contract
16
Trainee development
18
Your secondment21
Career-long development
22
Your work
The work you will do
26
The big deal
27
Global practice areas
30
Our industry sectors
32
Our working culture
35
Things to get involved in
36
Your next steps
Getting prepared40
Application process
42
Interviews and assessments
43
Dates and deadlines
44
Keep in touch
47
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 07
Your progress
Overview of programmes
There are many ways to start your journey with
Norton Rose Fulbright, and there is no ‘ideal’
route. As our current trainees will tell you, it’s
what you do here that influences your progress,
not how you started.
Your journey
At whatever point you join us, we will encourage
you to set a clear direction for your long-term career
goals. When you do, we will do everything we can
to help you move forward with real purpose.
University
managers
First step
First-year undergraduates
First-year
undergraduates
Open days
Undergraduates and graduates
Opportunities to connect
University managers
First-year undergraduates
This is often a first step towards a career with us. You will
work closely with our team – promoting our practice on
campus, developing some useful skills and getting to know
us at the same time.
Open days
Undergraduates and graduates
If you want to know more about law, and us, come along
and ask the questions that matter. You will experience
our practice, meet and quiz our lawyers, and get plenty
of advice about your next steps.
08 Progress with purpose
First step
First-year undergraduates
This programme gives you the chance to really test the
waters, learn about us and find out if a career in law is right
for you.
Vacation schemes
Penultimate year undergraduates, finalists and graduates
Our summer and winter vacation schemes are designed to
give you a good feel for life as a trainee. You will experience
our work, our deals and our culture.
Overview of programmes
We provide our trainees with tailored support throughout their
training, helping each individual to realise their potential and
make the right seat and secondment choices.
Michael Black
Training principal and partner
Qualification
Law school
Completion of
training contract
Pre-training contract
Vacation schemes
Penultimate year
undergraduates, finalists
and graduates
Training contract
Four seats across two years
Associate
Your first role
Post offer
Law school
Pre-training contract
If you are offered a training contract with us, your trainee
journey will start here on the Legal Practice Course – with
seven and a half months of learning at BPP University. It
will be intense, but will prepare you well for life as a lawyer.
If your degree is non-law, you will also have to complete the
Graduate Diploma in Law.
Training contract
Four seats across two years
Here’s where you start to immerse yourself in our work and
our practice. You will complete four seats across two years,
including a client or an international secondment.
Qualification
Completion of training contract
Successfully complete your training contract and we will
do all we can to make sure you qualify into an area that best
suits your interests and ambitions.
Associate
Your first role
This will be your first role when you qualify. You’ll hone
the skills you’ve learnt so far, further explore your chosen
practice area and start to work towards your next
career goal.
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 09
Your progress
First chances to connect
There is no substitute for
experience when it comes
to finding out about our
practice. And the earlier
you connect with us, the
better. Here are three ways
in which you can get a taste
of working here.
At a glance
•
•
•
Meet our people
Get to know us
Get involved
University managers
Open to first-year undergraduates of any discipline,
this is a great way to get to know us and take a
first step towards a future here. You will be our oncampus representative – working closely with our
trainee recruitment team to:
• plan and run campus events throughout the year
• research sponsorship ideas
• build links with university societies.
While doing so, you will learn valuable workplace
skills and gain an insight into our global legal
practice. And we will reimburse you for your time.
It was a year-long opportunity
to be creative, develop
my leadership skills and
demonstrate my abilities to the
practice. I had a lot of contact
with people too, from trainees
to partners.
Juliet Gordon
Future trainee
10 Progress with purpose
First chances to connect
Open days
First step
We run these throughout the year, and they’re open
to undergraduates, graduates and career changers
from all degree disciplines. These days are about
involvement as well as insight, so if you attend you
will be expected to participate. There will be:
Exclusively for first-year undergraduates, First step
runs for a week in April. It is all about helping you
decide if law, and we in particular, are right for you.
So you should expect to:
•
•
•
•
•
talks from senior partners
interactive skills workshops
an office tour
opportunities to quiz our lawyers over lunch
application and interview advice.
Our advice? Have some questions ready, talk to as
many of our people as possible, get involved, dress
smartly and, above all, be enthusiastic.
Open days are held at our More London office and
we will reimburse reasonable travel expenses for
those taking part.
•
•
•
•
•
sit in one of our practice areas
experience our high profile work
gain insights into our culture
take part in skills workshops
attend social events.
To make the most of the opportunity, say yes
to every activity you are offered, ask plenty of
questions, show a keen interest and, of course,
enjoy the experience.
The day helped me better
understand the practice and its
dynamic, open-minded culture.
When I came back for my
interview, I already had a sense
of what they were looking for.
First step is an introduction
to life as a commercial lawyer.
It will help you understand our
business and culture, and it’s a
positive step towards securing
a place as a trainee.
Ewelina Kajkowska
Future trainee
Caroline Lindner
Trainee recruitment manager
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 11
Your progress
Vacation schemes
Designed to provide a taste of life on our training
contract, our summer and winter vacation schemes
will enable you to experience our deals, culture and
practice areas. You can expect:
• t o become involved in research projects,
client meetings and court visits
• key skills training with our learning &
development team
• Q&A sessions with heads of practice and
our managing partner
• talks about practice areas and deals
• participation in a group project
• networking and social events
• a salary of £300 per week.
To get the most from all of this, be proactive
about getting involved. And treat it like a two-way
interview. It is not just a matter of us looking at
you – it is equally important that you look at us
and ask yourself if you could picture a lasting
career here. At the end of the scheme, you will
have the opportunity to be interviewed for our
training contract.
•
Our summer vacation schemes last for
three weeks and are open to penultimate year
undergraduates and finalists
• Our winter vacation scheme runs for eight
days, and is open to finalists and graduates.
12 Progress with purpose
Pre-vacation scheme day
Before you start, we will invite you to spend half
a day at our offices. This time, which is all about
preparation, will include:
• talks from senior partners
• ice-breaker sessions
• advice from our trainees about
how to approach the scheme
•
feedback about your performance
at the assessment day.
By the end of the day, you will have a clear
picture of how to perform well on the scheme.
It is a good example of how, even this early on,
we will take your progress seriously.
At a glance
•
•
•
Skills training
Experience real work
Get to know us
Vacation schemes
Of the three schemes I did in the City, this
one stood out for its open door policy.
My supervisor was a partner, and he
included me as much as possible –
explaining things thoroughly and
answering all my questions. I felt like an
asset rather than a burden, and it was clear
that he wanted me to learn.
During the scheme I got to understand
Norton Rose Fulbright as an international
business as well as a legal practice.
I experienced all kinds of work, which
confirmed my interest in commercial law.
The group project was a real highlight.
We carried out original research for a client,
so we were doing something of real value.
My advice for someone attending a
vacation scheme? Just get involved.
It flies by, so ask questions and offer to
help whenever you can. You’ll learn more,
and it will show that you are engaged
and committed.
Maria Sturla
Future trainee
Studied History at University of Warwick
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 13
Your progress
The pre-LPC day was excellent. Meeting the
rest of my intake made starting the course
a lot less daunting, because I already had a
network in place.
The course itself is quite demanding. It took
me a couple of weeks to adjust to the hours,
which are just like a working day. To keep up,
you have to treat it like a real job. It’s great
preparation for working life and I’ve learnt
a huge amount on the course. I’m looking
forward to applying it all in real life scenarios.
What advice would I give to a future trainee?
Be resilient. Treat every setback as an
opportunity to improve. When I didn’t get
a place on the vacation scheme, I focused
on meeting and talking to people from the
practice wherever I could. I went to a lot of
networking events, and talking to some senior
people really paid off.
Aji Ayorinde
Trainee
Studied Law at Queen Mary
University of London
14 Progress with purpose
Law school
Law school
The Accelerated Legal Practice Course (LPC) is where
your journey begins. You will gain the skills and
knowledge you will need to start your training contract
with confidence – and we will be there with personal
support all the way through. Here are the main steps.
Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL)
For non-law graduates, this is the first step.
It lasts for a year, and provides interactive
learning, a high quality qualification, and
some invaluable insights into life in practice.
A maintenance grant of £6000 is available,
and we also pay course fees.
Pre-LPC day
A week before the LPC begins, you will come
to our London office for a training and
development day. In a series of interactive
sessions, we will cover:
•
personal branding and
professional etiquette
•
executive skills
•
commercial awareness and
our industry sectors
•
presentation skills.
You will broaden your understanding of our
practice, and gain skills that will serve you well
on the LPC. More importantly, you will also meet
your fellow trainees – building up a network for
when you start the course.
The LPC
This intensive, seven-and-a-half-month course is
tailored to meet the demands of life as a solicitor.
There will be lectures, group tutorials, exams
and assessments – providing you with a solid
foundation for when you start your training
contract. We will pay the course fees, and a further
£7000 maintenance grant is available.
Keep in touch day
Halfway through the LPC, we will hold this
one-day event. It will be an opportunity for us to
catch up – to see how you are doing and how we
can help. There will also be business updates and
a practice area fair, where you will meet partners
and associates, and learn more about the work
that lies ahead.
At a glance
•
•
•
Accelerated learning
Financial assistance
Ongoing support
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 15
Your progress
Your training contract
This is the most important
part of your journey with us.
It is also a journey in itself.
Your induction will get you prepared. It will cover
Below is a timeline of the training contract, but this is only
a guide. Your secondment could come from your second
seat onwards, and international exposure will be there
from the start. The best way to progress is to stay open to
opportunities as they present themselves – and take them
when they do.
Your seats will broaden your understanding of our
work, clients, and global reach. Three will be in banking,
corporate, and disputes, because these are at the heart of
our practice. The other will be dictated by your interests
and ambitions. At the end of each seat, you will be able to
submit a number of choices as to where you go next. It is
crucial that you choose an area that suits your skills and
engages your mind.
everything from the professional skills course and how to
use our library, to seat planning and pro bono work. There
will also be a handover from the trainee in the seat you will
start in. Then it’s time to become a lawyer.
At a glance
•
•
•
Four seats
International or client secondment
First-year salary £41k
Induction
• Two and a half weeks
•
Professional skills training
• Seat planning sessions
Seat 1
•
Six months in core
•
•
practice area
Mid-seat catch up
End-of-seat appraisal
Seat 2
•
Six months –
in our London office
or on secondment
•
End-of-seat appraisal
Pro bono work is ongoing throughout the training contract
£
41k
16 Progress with purpose
Your training contract
Exploring our practice is encouraged. After all,
the training contract is your opportunity to experience the
broadest range of our work and sectors before setting your
future direction. If you find that a particular industry sector
really interests you, that is fine too. We will do all we can to
tailor your seats accordingly.
Your secondment could be from your second seat
onwards. You will have the opportunity to go to a client,
or to one of our international offices. Either way, it will
represent an invaluable learning experience.
Your work will vary from seat to seat; becoming more
complex as your skills and confidence grow. To give you
some idea though, it will include drafting advice, carrying
out research, attending meetings and helping to close deals.
Pro bono work will be an integral part of your
training contract. You will visit local legal centres, to
help and advise members of the public. This will see you
experiencing a wide range of legal issues, and taking the
lead on some interesting cases. It will be very rewarding too.
Support will be ongoing. And it will come from a range
of sources: your partner mentor, senior colleagues,
other trainees and our trainee development team.
There will be informal mid-seat catch-ups too, to see how
you are getting on.
Seat 3
•
Six months –
in our London office
or on secondment
•
End-of-seat appraisal
Seat 4
Qualification
•
Six months –
•
in our London office
or on secondment
End-of-seat appraisal
46k
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 17
Your progress
Trainee development
Your training contract will be an ongoing
learning experience. From your first seat to
your last, you will benefit from the following:
Mentoring
This is the most direct way in which you will tap into the breadth of knowledge
and experience here. You will be given a partner mentor, who will offer
guidance and advice and help you decide on your future direction.
A buddy
More informal than mentoring, our buddy system will give you a recent
trainee who will help you find your feet. Their advice and support will be there
throughout the two years.
Sitting with a partner or senior associate
You will share their office – gaining exposure to every aspect of their work.
Practice area training
Each new seat will present new challenges, so our knowledge lawyers and
learning & development team will make sure you have the specific skills and
knowledge you will need to perform to your best.
A collegiate environment
People here are open to sharing their knowledge. Partners taking the time to
sit down with you and explain a deal or a technical issue will become a regular
feature of your training contract.
Of course, we will continue to support you beyond your training contract.
Find out how on page 22.
At a glance
•
•
•
In-house training
Mentoring
Learn from partners and associates
18 Progress with purpose
I’m only in my second seat, and I’ve already
experienced a lot. In my first seat, in
intellectual property, I was lucky enough to be
seconded to Paris for a couple of months. That
was brilliant. I was trusted with important
work, and even had my own office.
Now I’m in my second seat, on secondment
at a major bank. It’s fascinating to get a
different perspective on things. The work here
is technical, but the more I learn, the more I
enjoy it. Next, I’m hoping to go to Hong Kong
to complete a seat in corporate. I want to see
what the work is like there.
What advice would I give about the training
contract? Take every opportunity to get
involved in everything here – not just the
work. There are all kinds of networks and
groups, and it is a great way to build a wider
network. For example, I’ve gone on a couple
of overseas tours with the football team.
Henry Trevelyan Thomas
Trainee
Studied Law and business at
University of Leeds
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 19
Your progress
I had made no secret about wanting to
work overseas, so was delighted to get the
opportunity to go to Johannesburg in my second
seat. There are many key emerging markets
within Africa for us, so I knew the secondment
would be interesting.
The pressure out there was high. The work was
often challenging, and there were quite a few
instances where I played a key role on a deal.
But there was always someone to talk to, phone
or email if I needed some advice. The culture in
the South African offices was similar to back
here, which helped a lot. Sure, I was nervous at
first, but I finished the secondment having
gained a lot of trust and confidence in myself.
What advice would I give a potential trainee?
If you are thinking of applying, get to know us
first. Come on an open day or vacation scheme
and meet as many people as possible.
Hridi Chowdhury
Trainee
Studied International development studies
at University of Toronto
20 Progress with purpose
Your secondment
Your secondment
Going on secondment is the perfect way to
broaden your practical commercial experience.
The opportunities to do so here are outstanding –
and they could come as early as your second seat.
Going overseas
As nearly all our transactions have an international element to them, the sooner
you get used to thinking globally and working across diverse jurisdictions, the
better. With more than 50 offices worldwide, we are able to offer opportunities
on a global scale. And we will support you with everything from travel and
accommodation to regular contact with our trainee development team to see
how you are getting on.
Going to a client
This is a very different experience to travelling overseas, but it is no less valuable.
You will take in different environments and ways of working, while learning about
our clients’ industries through first-hand experience. Being able to see things from
the client’s perspective is a skill that will serve you well in your future here.
Choosing the right secondment
It is important to get this right, so we hold secondment fairs where you can see all
the opportunities available. We will help make sure the one you pick is right for the
work you want to do and the things you want to achieve. Wherever you go, you will
get to sharpen your thinking and commercial experience.
We expect all of our trainees to go on secondment.
The experience they gain is valuable for our relationship with
clients, the success of our business and their development.
Martin Scott
Managing partner
Europe, Middle East and Asia
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 21
Your progress
Career-long development
Your learning will start on your very first
day and will continue far beyond your
training contract.
Training that takes you further
Whatever direction your career takes, our in-house team will give
you the training to become an outstanding commercial lawyer
and business adviser: everything our clients demand of us.
We will train you in the business skills needed to take you to the
next stage of your career, the new language you need to pursue
overseas ambitions, or the technical knowledge you require to
move into a particular sector. Whatever you want to achieve,
we will be there to support you.
Development that never stops
When you qualify, we will continue to invest heavily in your
training. Our international academies, for example, bring
associates together from around our global network. They focus
on developing essential skills. And they’re an invaluable
opportunity for you to build your network.
Alongside these, we deliver regular business and performance
skills sessions. And all our practice areas hold regular training
for lawyers at all levels, so you will always be up to date with
the latest developments.
At a glance
•
•
•
In-house training
International academies
Regular skills sessions
22 Progress with purpose
Career-long development
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 23
Essential advice #2
Five ways in which our industry focus
makes our work different
Our industry focus drives and defines our overall growth.
But how does it affect the work that you will be involved in?
We asked some of our people for their opinions.
It gives you access to great work.
“Many of our sector teams are leaders in their field. This means they bring in the best work –
not just the biggest deals, but some of the most innovative work too.”
It sharpens your commercial thinking.
“You get to know what is affecting our clients in their industry.
It helps you relate law to the commercial world, and it makes our work more marketable.”
It encourages closer working across teams.
“Having this kind of shared focus really connects teams across the whole global practice.”
It can help you choose your seats.
“All of my seats have been in the same sector, which has given my training contract a clear direction.”
It means that you learn more.
“All the industries we focus on are dynamic. You have to keep up with new developments, because this will
help you communicate more effectively with clients.”
For more valuable tips, go to ‘Essential advice’ on nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com
24 Progress with purpose
Your work
Your progress
07
Overview of programmes
08
First chances to connect
10
Vacation schemes
12
Law school15
Your training contract
16
Trainee development
18
Your work
Your secondment21
High profile, high quality, and
often groundbreaking, the work
you will do is where you will
show us what you are capable
of. In this section, we will take
a closer look at what it will be,
and where it will happen.
The work you will do
26
The big deal
27
Global practice areas
30
Our industry sectors
32
Our working culture
35
Things to get involved in
36
Career-long development
22
25
Your next steps
Getting prepared40
Application process
42
Interviews and assessments
43
Dates and deadlines
44
Keep in touch
47
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 25
Your work
The work you will do
Right from the start, you will be
involved in work that is complex,
international and industry focused.
You will soon be running important aspects of significant
transactions that take you right to the heart of our clients’
industries. The responsibility you are given will grow
in tandem with your confidence and capabilities. And,
working with clients and colleagues worldwide, you will
learn new things every day.
On the following pages, we are going to look at practice
areas in which you will work, the sectors on which you will
focus, and the environment you will become part of. Let’s
start with one of our largest recent deals – as experienced
by one of the trainees who helped bring it all together.
The deal
£12.5bn
Teams involved
Corporate, M&A and securities
Tax
Pensions
Real estate
Environment
It is great to read in the headlines
about a deal that you have worked
on and know that you helped to
make it happen.
Hannah Stiven
Trainee
Intellectual property
Antitrust and competition
The trainee team did the following:
• drafted the engagement letter
• carried out research
• supported due diligence
• drafted board minutes
• summarised agreements
• finalised the disclosure letter
• reviewed and managed documents.
26 Progress with purpose
The big deal
The big deal
From December 2014 to February 2015,
we advised Orange on their half of the sale
of EE – the UK’s biggest mobile operator –
to BT. This transaction trebled BT’s
customer base and redefined Orange’s
strategy. It was a landmark deal for the
telecoms industry – and for three of
our trainees.
My main role was assisting
with the redaction of
business-sensitive
information. A lot of
documents were involved,
so I had to liaise with a
whole team of trainees who
were working on this. I also
provided regular status
updates to external counsel.
Rosie Lloyd
Trainee
A trainee’s perspective – Hannah Stiven
“Working on a market-shaping deal was
incredible. I was involved right from the
initial briefings. And because the deal
was delivered in such a short time, I got
to experience it all in one seat.
As a trainee, you support an associate
on a specific part of the deal. I was
involved in the disclosure letter. This
showed me the importance of attention
to detail. No matter how fast paced it
got, we had to be accurate and provide
evidence for everything. Any mistakes
could cause serious problems later on.
On our side, the other trainees and I
delegated work between ourselves and
then one of us drew it all together to
make sure it was consistent. The wider
team came together well too –
particularly when the deadline was
approaching and we were putting in
the long hours and late nights.
It also reinforced the value of
teamwork. All the parties had their
own legal advisers, and working with,
rather than against, another legal
practice was an interesting experience.
It was good to share the excitement
and pressures with other trainees.
At the time of writing, we are awaiting
approval from the Competition and
Markets Authority. When this comes
through, I’m looking forward to the
closing dinner.”
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 27
Your work
i
2 co
ers
n
t
r
rporate pa
Timeline of
the deal
Disclosure letter –
covering information
about the business that
may affect its value
0 15
Fe
bru
ary
2
3 senior assoc
Core team
15
y 20
28 Progress with purpose
ees
rain
Initial agreement between
Norton Rose Fulbright
and Orange
3t
Negotiation of financial
terms and scope of work
between all parties
es
at
uar
Jan
Signing of term sheet
e
4
01
2
r
De
ce
m
b
Due diligence – the investigation
of the company prior to purchase
Signing of the Sale and
Purchase Agreement
(SPA)
Competition and Markets
Authority’s approval to follow
The big deal
A partner’s perspective – Oliver Stacey
“Orange has a very strong in-house legal team but on such a
large, groundbreaking deal, they need greater resources and
corporate and telecoms expertise and so, having worked
closely with us before on a number of transactions, they
were happy for us to advise.
The deal presented plenty of challenges. A limited
exclusivity period meant that timescales were unusually
short. There was sensitivity around the Competition and
Markets Authority approval, because of the deal’s profile.
Both EE and BT had their own pension schemes, so there
were complex pension issues to contend with too.
Orange is based in Paris, so there was lots of travel required.
We were next to them at every stage of negotiations –
supporting them in a very exciting deal in a fast-moving
and still-developing sector. It was one of those transactions
that required many different practice areas here to work
together. This is when we’re at our strongest.
You can’t do deals like this without trainees. Hannah, Matt
and Rosie all played key roles – particularly during the due
diligence and negotiation phases. We had a short time to
review and process an enormous number of documents,
and we needed the team to manage this with ability as well
as enthusiasm. They stepped up, and our client was very
pleased with the performance of everyone here.”
A month before the signing, one of the
deal’s associates went on secondment
and I was asked to take over their
duties. I was still a trainee then, but I
grabbed the opportunity to step up.
I’m so glad I did. I got to be there for
the signing, which involved all-night
negotiations followed by a 6am
signing and lots of celebrating.
Matthew Eccles
Associate
You can’t do deals like this without
trainees. Hannah, Matt and Rosie all
played key roles.
Oliver Stacey
Partner
At a glance
•
•
•
Deal worth £12.5bn
Three trainees in the core team
Three months from start to signing of the SPA
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 29
Your work
Global practice areas
This is where you will take on the work that drives our clients and our global practice forward.
Each practice area reaches across our industry sectors; so, while you are broadening your experience
during your four seats, you can get a feel for where you would like to progress in the future.
Banking and finance – 900 lawyers
From major banks and finance providers to sovereign and corporate entities, some of the world’s
biggest financial institutions turn to us for sector knowledge and insight. You will help our global
team advise across the full range of banking and finance matters, acting for all parties – from
multinational lenders to growth corporations – wherever they are in the world.
Corporate, M&A and securities – 1400 lawyers
Our technical capabilities, deep industry knowledge and commercial acumen are valued and relied
upon by market-leading corporations and financial institutions. You will experience the full range of
corporate and commercial work – focusing on complex domestic, cross-border and multi-jurisdictional
transactions.
Dispute resolution and litigation – 1200 lawyers
With experience of handling and resolving multi-jurisdictional mandates and international
arbitration across all industry sectors, we advise many of the world’s largest companies. You will join
our lawyers in preventing and resolving disputes by giving practical, creative advice that focuses on
our clients’ strategic and commercial objectives.
Intellectual property – 250 lawyers
We have extensive experience in protecting and exploiting intellectual property rights. You will be
exposed to everything from registration to commercialisation and enforcement, including strategic
advice, protection and prosecution, portfolio management, patent, trade mark and copyright
litigation. You will also see how we add value for our clients through our in-depth knowledge of all
areas of technology.
30 Progress with purpose
Global practice areas
Antitrust and competition – 130 lawyers
We are recognised as a leading antitrust and competition practice and we combine a substantial
merger control practice with a significant non-transactional practice. You should expect to gain a wide
experience of EU and national competition law and regulatory regimes across our industry sectors.
Employment and labour – 320 lawyers
Our team offers wide-ranging experience across all areas of contentious and non-contentious
employment and labour law. You will help them advise on everything from sensitive severance
issues and workplace discrimination through to global share plans and international pension
arrangements. You could also experience high profile disputes and multi-jurisdictional corporate
reorganisations.
Real estate – 200 lawyers
Our real estate team acts on innovative development, regeneration and property finance
transactions and projects. You will help them advise on every type of real estate transaction
and project, equity and debt financing, and disputes – working closely with our tax, funds
management, debt financing and corporate teams to deliver complete solutions to our clients.
Tax – 150 lawyers
We deliver tax planning, investigation and litigation services to companies of all sizes, advising
across industries and jurisdictions. We have significant international reach, with tax practitioners
across our offices. You will be involved in providing comprehensive services for all corporate,
finance and real estate transactions, reinforced by our industry sector focus.
Regulation and investigations – 600+ lawyers
Regulation and enforcement by regulators are at the forefront of the issues facing all businesses.
Our team provides global, multi-jurisdictional experience, industry skills and cross-disciplinary
best practice. Joining them, you will help our clients respond positively to regulatory and
compliance issues and investigations, wherever they are in the world.
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 31
Your work
Our industry sectors
Our six global industry sectors are at the heart of our
strategy, and they are where all of your work will happen.
Your knowledge of them will grow with each seat – enabling
you to provide our clients with business insight as well as
sound legal advice.
Our determination to stay at the forefront of each sector
continues to take us into new areas. For you, this will
mean involvement in work that is pioneering as well as
engrossing. Here is a brief introduction to each sector
from some senior figures. For the bigger picture, go to
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com
1100 lawyers
850 lawyers
910 lawyers
Financial
institutions
Energy
Infrastructure, mining
and commodities
“Driven by regulatory change and
technological innovation, the
financial sector evolves by the
day. Few industries are changing
as significantly, or quickly, as
this. And few legal practices are
reacting as rapidly as we are.
Our insight, experience and
far-reaching global platform
mean that we can help our
clients not only navigate these
challenges, but also embrace the
opportunities they present.”
“One of the biggest challenges in
this sector is the pace of its
development. More than ever, our
clients look to us to be industry
lawyers as well as practice
lawyers. This means that we are
part of the sector’s innovation,
from helping our clients with
advanced renewable energy
projects to the exploration of
completely new technologies
and products.”
“The sectors we operate in are broad,
dynamic and challenging. Not only
do we have real depth in developed
markets such as Australia, Canada
and the US, we also have a leading
emerging markets practice.
Consequently, you can be advising
on the financing of a diamond mine
in Canada one day and working
on a greenfield port project in
West Africa the very next.
The opportunities are endless.”
Simon Currie
Global head of energy
Martin McCann
Global head of infrastructure,
mining and commodities
Recent accolade
Recent accolade
James Bateson
Global head of financial
institutions
Recent accolade
Leading brand for favourability, Acritas
Sharplegal Global Survey 2014
32 Progress with purpose
Global energy law firm of the year,
Who’s Who Legal 2014
Ranked tier 1 by Chambers 2015,
Energy & natural resources: mining
Our industry sectors
350 lawyers
500+ lawyers
400 lawyers
Transport
Technology
and innovation
Life sciences
and healthcare
“Transport is an exciting and
fast-moving sector. Transport
companies are putting in place
plans to expand their businesses in
order to meet growing passenger
numbers and rising freight volumes.
We are seeing increased demand for
finance, with new investors entering
the market. At the same time, the
regulatory burden for the transport
sector is becoming heavier, with
environmental laws, health and
safety, and sanctions now a key
focus for our clients.”
“Technology and innovation
are core components for the
competitiveness of almost any
business. Exponential growth
in data volumes, storage and
processing power has spurred on
the development of technologies
able to unlock the value in vast
amounts of data. Technology is
moving up the value chain –
once technology facilitated the
way business was undertaken.
Now, increasingly, it simply is
the business.”
“This is a fascinating and truly
global area. Our clients have
to innovate to stay ahead.
We’re seeing more mergers,
more collaboration and more
regulatory changes – every one of
which presents new commercial
and legal hurdles. We have
to innovate, too, if we are to
remain able to guide our clients
through this complex landscape.
If you are intellectually curious,
you will find some compelling
challenges here.”
Harry Theochari
Global head of transport
Mike Rebeiro
Global head of technology
and innovation
Mélanie Thill-Tayara
Head of life sciences and
healthcare EMEA
Recent accolade
Recent accolade
Recent accolade
Shipping law firm of the year 2014,
Global Transport Finance
TMT deal of the year 2014, The Asian
Lawyer Emerging Markets Awards
Canadian life cycle firm of the year 2014,
LMG Life Sciences
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 33
Your work
What drew me to Norton Rose Fulbright
was their ambition. I came to an open day
here, and you could just feel the hunger and
eagerness to grow internationally. It’s part of
the working culture, and I knew it would lead
to some good opportunities.
I’m in my second seat now, and the other thing
that has struck me about the culture is just
how open it is here. Working with other offices
is easy, and everyone around me is happy to
take time to talk me through things. There’s
also been a focus on getting me involved in
meeting clients as soon as possible. It’s meant
that I’ve been involved in plenty of high
quality work already.
My advice to a future trainee? Don’t worry
about feeling out of your depth. It’s completely
normal, and you’ll be amazed how quickly you
pick things up. Just keep on asking questions,
because it’s the best way to learn.
Suzy Oakley
Trainee
Studied History at University of Oxford
34 Progress with purpose
Our working culture
Our working culture
It is not just the work and our training that
will help you move forward. Our supportive
and positive environment will too. This is
because, at Norton Rose Fulbright:
Collaboration is key
It underpins our global growth, and you will find that doors here are always
open if you need to draw on the experience and insight of a colleague.
Relationships matter
Our business is only as strong as the relationships our people build with our
clients, and each other.
Progress is based purely on merit
If you are good, no one will stand in your way.
Individual perspectives are welcome
We know that pioneering work only takes place when people have the room
to think without boundaries.
Inclusivity makes us stronger
It helps us react positively to opportunities in different markets and diverse
cultures around the world.
Our culture ensures everyone feels accepted,
regardless of background. You can achieve all
your career ambitions here by just being yourself.
Andrew McEachern
Global director of people and development
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 35
Your work
Things to get involved in
We know that our people, at every level, are more engaged
and perform better when they feel free to be themselves.
We have created an inclusive environment where they do. But ultimately it will be up to you to
make the most of it – by taking every opportunity to get involved beyond your work, and actively
contributing to the culture of which we are all so proud. It will be worth it, because you will enjoy
a richer and more rounded working experience.
Here are just a few of the opportunities you will find here:
Employee networks
Our influential employee networks are core to our diversity
and inclusion strategy. Ranging from gender balance and
faith, to LGBT and ethnicity, they’re open to everyone –
offering opportunities to meet and share experiences with
people across the practice, and clients’ businesses too.
Joining an employee network means engaging in positive
changes that shape our working environment. It is another
way to meet senior leaders and role models too. And many
of our networks have trainees on their steering committees.
Joining Pride, our LGBT and allies
network, has been hugely beneficial.
It’s opened up a diverse network
of colleagues and contacts. As I’m
on the steering committee, it’s also
provided experience in areas outside
of the training contract.
Jack Mason
Trainee
36 Progress with purpose
Sports and social clubs
We have teams and clubs for everything from badminton,
cricket and football to netball, table tennis and softball.
Our award-winning choir
Winners of Office Choir of the Year in 2012 and 2014, our
choir is open to new voices of every ability level. If you love
singing, you will be welcome.
Corporate social responsibility initiatives
As well as providing legal advice at law centres and
volunteering at local schools, as a founder member of
PRIME we are committed to providing work experience to
young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Our people
also get involved in a huge range of community projects
around the world. In past years, we have cycled across
Texas and sailed across oceans to raise money for great
causes. This year, we are taking on a canoeing challenge
in Canada. Who knows where we will be when you join?
At a glance
•
•
•
Employee networks
Sports and social clubs
CSR initiatives
Things to get involved in
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 37
Essential advice #3
Six reasons why our people chose us
We asked our people what made them apply here.
This is what they said, in their own words:
The impressive work.
“Our industry focus means that we get plenty of high quality work.
You can get involved in some huge deals here.”
For me, it was the practice’s ambitions.
“We’re growing and ambitious, and we continue to establish ourselves
at the top of the league tables.”
I could see this was a place I could grow.
“I wanted challenging work and a steep learning curve.
I get that here, in an environment where those around me look to help me improve.”
I knew I would go places here.
“We don’t just offer secondments – we actively encourage all trainees to undertake one.”
The international focus.
“It’s more than a list of international offices – there is a real emphasis on working with colleagues and
clients in different jurisdictions. Pick somewhere in the world, and we’ve probably got an office there.”
The culture felt right.
“It’s collegiate, and individuality is encouraged. There’s an understanding here that people should feel
free to explore things outside of their immediate role.”
For more valuable tips, go to ‘Essential advice’ on nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com
38 Progress with purpose
Your next steps
Your progress
07
Overview of programmes
08
First chances to connect
10
Vacation schemes
12
Law school15
Your training contract
16
Trainee development
18
Your secondment21
This final section focuses on
the steps you will have to take
to become part of our practice.
It looks at what you need to do,
when you need to do it, and
how to give yourself the best
chance of success.
Your next steps
Career-long development
22
Your work
25
The work you will do
26
The big deal
27
Global practice areas
30
Our industry sectors
32
Our working culture
35
Things to get involved in
36
39
Getting prepared40
Application process
42
Interviews and assessments
43
Dates and deadlines
44
Keep in touch
47
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 39
Your next steps
Getting prepared
How do you make the best impression during
the application process? We asked our trainees,
associates and partners for their top tips,
and here’s what they said.
Four tips for a strong application
Six ways to shine in your interview
Be as informed as you can. Our industry focus,
global reach and culture are all important to us,
so make sure you understand them.
Prepare thoroughly. As with your application,
show your knowledge of our global reach, our
strategy and our work. And say what it all means
to you.
Show us why you chose us. When you’ve got to
grips with who we are and where we’re going,
then make it clear why this has influenced your
decision.
Make no mistakes. Ensure you understand
each question before answering and don’t
forget to check and double-check your spelling
and grammar. Attention to detail is massively
important in law, and any mistakes will show.
Show us how you think. We look for curiosity
and commercial awareness in our trainees, so
take every opportunity to bring these out.
Know your news. It helps to be up to speed with
the latest commercial issues and developments,
so read the business and legal press.
Know about us. Get to understand our practice
and the areas we focus on. But make sure you
know what these really mean – don’t just quote
our brochure at us.
Speak up. Be ready to do most of the talking.
After all, we will want to get to know you.
Question as well as answer. Think of some
pertinent questions for the end of your interview
– we like enquiring minds and people who show a
genuine interest in who we are and what we offer.
Be you. Above all, be who you are, not who you
think we want you to be. We’ll want you to be
yourself when you join, so your interview is a
good place to start.
40 Progress with purpose
Getting prepared
There were a few reasons why I chose Norton
Rose Fulbright. The international expansion
was exciting. The range of work appealed too,
because I wanted to try quite a few areas before
deciding where to specialise. Above all, I liked
the energetic, collegiate atmosphere that I
experienced during the vacation scheme.
I’ve definitely made the right choice. I’m in my
first seat, in one of our banking teams, and
the work’s really interesting. Each transaction
has its own quirks and challenges. The biggest
thing I’ve learnt is this: you have to stay on top
of your workload. It’s essential to have strong
organisational skills as a trainee, something
which I hadn’t fully appreciated until my first seat.
My advice for someone going through the
application process? Be confident in yourself
and know your strengths. Don’t answer how
you think they want you to answer. The real you
is much more believable, so don’t hide that in
interviews or when filling out your form.
Ben Cohen
Trainee
Studied Law at LSE
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 41
Your next steps
Application process
All applications must be made via our website. If your
application is successful, you will be invited to an
assessment day – your first step on what could become
a long and rewarding journey with us.
We review applications and invite candidates to assessment
days on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to submit your
application early.
Training contract 2018
Vacation schemes
If you are a finalist or graduate from a law or
non-law subject, then you should apply from
1 December 2015 to 31 January 2016.
Winter
This is open to finalists and graduates from
law and non-law subjects, and applications are
welcome from 1 October to 31 October 2015.
If you are in your penultimate year, apply
between 1 June 2016 and 15 July 2016.
Please wait until you know the results of your
penultimate year exams before applying.
Summer
This is open to penultimate year undergraduates
and finalists from law and non-law subjects.
You can apply from 1 November 2015 to
8 January 2016.
First step
Open days
This is open to first-year undergraduates from
both law and non-law subjects, and you can
apply from 1 February to 29 February 2016.
We hold two of these. The first is in December,
and is for penultimate year undergraduates,
finalists and graduates. Apply for this from
1 November to 15 November 2015. The second
is in April, and is for penultimate year
undergraduates and those in the second year
of a four-year course. Apply for this one from
1 February to 14 February 2016.
42 Progress with purpose
Application process, interviews and assessments
Interviews and assessments
If your application for a vacation scheme or training
contract impresses, we will invite you to an assessment
day at our London office. This day will help us to get to
know you and see what you can do. It is also your
opportunity to meet us, experience our culture and find
out more about working here.
The day will include:
• a welcome by our trainee recruitment team
•
a fictional negotiation exercise, to test how well you work in a team and your
commercial awareness
•
an interview with two senior members of the practice
•
a written exercise to assess your drafting skills
•
lunch with trainees, plus afternoon tea and a guided tour of our office.
Your interview is your chance to shine as an individual and show us what you
can do, so you will want to perform as well as you can. For advice on how to do
this, go to nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com
We will do our best to get back to you quickly after the assessment day to let you
know the outcome. And we are happy to reimburse reasonable travel expenses.
If you require a reasonable adjustment to our assessment process, or have any
access requirements, please contact Caroline Lindner (Trainee recruitment
manager) at:
[email protected]
+44 20 7444 2113
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 43
Your next steps
Dates and deadlines 2015/16
Training
contract
2018
Applications
From 1 December 2015 to 31 January 2016
Finalists and graduates
Assessment days will be held in February and March 2016
Winter applications
Vacation
schemes and
First step
Winter scheme
From 1 October to 31 October 2015
Finalists and graduates
Assessment days will be held in
mid-November 2015
From Monday 14 December
to Tuesday 22 December 2015
Finalists and graduates
2015/16
Summer applications
From 1 November 2015 to 8 January 2016
Penultimate year undergraduates and finalists
Assessment days will be held in January to mid-February 2016
Applications
Open days
From 1 November to 15 November 2015
Penultimate year undergraduates,
finalists and graduates
2015/16
Open day
Friday 4 December 2015
Penultimate year undergraduates,
finalists and graduates
44 Progress with purpose
Dates and deadlines
Applications
From 1 June 2016 to 15 July 2016
Penultimate year undergraduates
Assessment days will be held in August 2016
First step applications
From 1 February to 29 February 2016
First-year undergraduates
Summer scheme #1
From Monday 13 June to Friday 1 July 2016
Penultimate year undergraduates and finalists
First step scheme
From Monday 4 April to Friday 8 April 2016
First-year undergraduates
Summer scheme #2
From Monday 4 July to Friday 22 July 2016
Penultimate year undergraduates and finalists
Applications
From 1 February to 14 February 2016
Penultimate year undergraduates and second year
of a four-year course
Open day
Friday 15 April 2016
Penultimate year undergraduates and second year
of a four-year course
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 45
Your next steps
I really enjoyed my time as a trainee. It was hard
work, but it taught me never to underestimate
myself. It’s only when you’re pushed that you
realise what you’re capable of. I met some great
people too, and learnt a lot from them.
One of the best things about the training
contract was that it helped me decide where
my future lay. I wasn’t sure if I saw myself as a
transactional lawyer or a litigator, and my four
seats really helped me figure that out. They also
helped me decide where I wanted to focus after
qualification. I’m now an associate in one of our
banking teams, leading on work and putting
everything I’ve learnt so far into practice. I’m
still confident I made the right choice.
How would I advise someone to get the most
out of the training contract?
Be open to talking to people and taking on new
experiences. It’s taken as a given that you can
do the work. It’s what you do beyond your work
that makes the difference.
Hui Hua
Associate
Studied Law at LSE
46 Progress with purpose
Keep in touch
Keep in touch
We said at the beginning that there were
some things you should know about us.
Hopefully the insights into our impressive work and
supportive culture have inspired you to become part
of everything that is happening here.
There are plenty of ways in which you can further explore
our practice and opportunities:
On campus
We visit university campuses across
the UK and Ireland, hosting informal
networking receptions and running
skills workshops. We also attend law
and careers fairs. It’s a chance for you
to meet us, ask questions and get a
feel for who we are and how we work.
Details of where we’ll be, and when,
can be found on our website.
Online
Visit our website for more details
about our programmes and your future
with us, as well as how to apply.
Stay connected
You can also find up-to-the-minute
information by following or
connecting with us on Facebook,
Twitter or YouTube.
Norton Rose Fulbright LLP
3 More London Riverside
London SE1 2AQ
UK
[email protected]
+44 20 7444 2113
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com
Norton Rose Fulbright Graduates UK
@NLawGrad
youtube.com/nortonrosefulbright
nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com 47
Norton Rose Fulbright
Norton Rose Fulbright is a global legal practice. We provide the world’s pre-eminent
corporations and financial institutions with a full business law service. We have more than
3800 lawyers and other legal staff based in more than 50 cities across Europe, the United
States, Canada, Latin America, Asia, Australia, Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia.
Recognized for our industry focus, we are strong across all the key industry sectors: financial
institutions; energy; infrastructure, mining and commodities; transport; technology and
innovation; and life sciences and healthcare.
Wherever we are, we operate in accordance with our global business principles of quality,
unity and integrity. We aim to provide the highest possible standard of legal service in each
of our offices and to maintain that level of quality at every point of contact.
Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP, Norton Rose Fulbright LLP, Norton Rose Fulbright Australia,
Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP and Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa Inc are separate
legal entities and all of them are members of Norton Rose Fulbright Verein, a Swiss verein.
Norton Rose Fulbright Verein helps coordinate the activities of the members but does not
itself provide legal services to clients.
References to ‘Norton Rose Fulbright’, ‘the law firm’, and ‘legal practice’ are to one or more of the Norton Rose Fulbright
members or to one of their respective affiliates (together ‘Norton Rose Fulbright entity/entities’). No individual who is a
member, partner, shareholder, director, employee or consultant of, in or to any Norton Rose Fulbright entity (whether
or not such individual is described as a ‘partner’) accepts or assumes responsibility, or has any liability, to any person
in respect of this communication. Any reference to a partner or director is to a member, employee or consultant with
equivalent standing and qualifications of the relevant Norton Rose Fulbright entity. The purpose of this communication
is to provide information as to developments in the law. It does not contain a full analysis of the law nor does it constitute
an opinion of any Norton Rose Fulbright entity on the points of law discussed. You must take specific legal advice on
any particular matter which concerns you. If you require any advice or further information, please speak to your usual
contact at Norton Rose Fulbright.
© Norton Rose Fulbright LLP 01/16 (UK) Extracts may be copied provided their source is acknowledged.
Photography by: Ivan Maslarov
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