Background
Laura has worked in the world of legal costs for over 8 years now and has been with John M Hayes for the last 5 years. Born in Nottingham Laura spent some of her early childhood growing up in Dubai before returning to the Nottingham area. After attending the University of Central Lancashire Laura remained in the North West for a further 3 years before returning to her roots.
Laura now lives in Nottinghamshire with her fiancé, Andy, her Dalmatian, Vinny and cat, Murphy.
Q1. Tell us how you came to work in legal costs
After completing my degree, BA (Hons) Law with Economics, I knew I wanted to work in the legal industry but had decided that becoming a solicitor was not the path I wanted to take. After seeing an advert for a trainee law costs draftsman, I looked into what the job entailed, applied and was offered the position with a cost drafting firm in the North West in 2007. After completing my training, I moved to work in-house for a national law firm in Manchester. I then relocated to the Midlands in 2010 and accepted a Consultant Costs Draftsman role with John M Hayes, based in the Chesterfield Office.
Q2. What is your current position with John M Hayes?
I am presently undertaking a 12 month secondment as Acting Regional Manager for the London/Amersham offices.
Q3. What do you love about your job?
The variety of work that the role of manager offers; from marketing, meeting clients, hosting seminars, and the day to day running of an office, to getting back to basics and costing.
Q4. What don’t you love about your job?
Dealing with complaints – but luckily these are few and far between!
Q5. What’s been the highlight of your career to date?
Being offered a management role. I was promoted to Assistant Regional Manager of the Chesterfield office in January 2012 and covered the Regional Manager’s maternity leave in 2014. Following this I was asked to oversee the Amersham and London offices, which of course I jumped at!
Q6. Where do you live?
Just outside the city of Nottingham, conveniently located between the city and the countryside. Best of both worlds!
Q7. What keeps you busy outside of the office?
Horse Riding and spending time with my Highland Pony, Patrick, walking my dog, holidays, baking and planning for my wedding next July.
Q8. What’s your dream job?
Running a pony rescue centre.
Q9. Do you have a ‘can’t miss’ tv programme?
Game of Thrones, I’m obsessed.
Q10. What’s your idea of a perfect night out?
Good food, good wine and good company.
Q11. Do you have a favourite quote?
‘No hour of life is lost that is spent in the saddle’ -Winston Churchill