Posted March 22 2018
By Meena Bahanda
Newly Qualified solicitors have a big decision to make when it comes to securing a NQ position this autumn. A number of factors have to be taken in to consideration. For example, which discipline you would like to progress your career in; should you stay with your training firm; will there be the right opportunity with your training firm; and what will any potential role offer in terms of career progression, salary and client exposure?
You may have the desire to work in another jurisdiction but are not sure how to make the move. Or you might not have considered a move, since Scots Law is unique, but there are a number of opportunities in the Channel Islands.
The firms we work with here at HRC Recruitment tend to seek out candidates with a background in corporate, corporate finance, funds and financial services. More recently, there has also been roles for Corporate, Banking and Finance and Funds at NQ level through to five years PQE.
It is the perfect opportunity to gain experience of working within a different jurisdiction without having to requalify. It provides the platform to work with firms ranging from larger UK operations to exotic destinations such as the Cayman Islands and Singapore. There are also well-established links to Magic and Silver Circle firms in London. It is very much a taste of life in the UK capital without the stresses and commutes associated with city life.
The work/life balance is also at the heart of the Channel Islands way of life. There are plenty options for your free time. Most people tend to reside in the main ports – meaning they are only a short walk away from the office and the nightlife on offer.
It is entirely possible to put in a solid day at the office, pop to the gym or a sports club on the way home and still go out for a meal or a drink without having to traipse all over the island. The French influence and culture is clear in the menu and dining options.
As could be expected from island life, the number of outdoor pursuits are incredibly high. If you prefer running or competitive sports instead of a glass of wine after work, there are a number of social clubs or scenic routes for you to choose from. There are competitive leagues for football, hockey, cricket and racquet sports. It’s very easy to get involved in island life and socialise through these clubs.
The warmer weather that the islands enjoy might make it a little easier to convince yourself to exercise.
The Channel Islands are also a great location for those who like to travel. You can, quite literally, pop over to France for the weekend or be in London for a taste of city life in less than an hour.
All firms offer relocation assistance and, once you are on the island, will provide help to get you initially set up with some accommodation. But more than just finding you somewhere nice to stay, legal firms want to ensure that you also enjoy living in the Channel Islands. Both islands have very active sports and social clubs, with busy events committees who put together regular events.
If you would like to discuss the possibility of taking your legal career to the Channel Islands, I’d love to speak with you and share the available roles that I have. Click here to get in touch with me and find out more.