What does your job entail?

I am a team leader and legal counsel in the Absa Legal: Litigation and Disputes Team. I manage a team of lawyers and have to provide effective, visible leadership and management of my team.

I also manage a portfolio of cases.

I create, build, maintain and manage strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

I also communicate and educate internal stakeholders on all legal risk control framework policies.

I also ensure that Absa operates within an appropriate and robust legal governance framework by ensuring the requirements of the litigation management and reporting policies are complied with.



What's the best part of your job?

The diversity of the job allows me to interact with all facets of the bank, allowing me to be exposed to all businesses in the group.

None of the cases I deal with are the same. Each day brings something new, exciting and challenging to my table. It is also gratifying to know that I play a key role in problem solving and risk mitigating for the group



And the worst part?

My job is high-pressured, adrenalin-driven and deadline orientated. Some people would view this as a negative but I find it appealing, and am inspired on a daily basis so at the risk of sounding idealistic, I love my job. Of course, a big corner office would be nice!



What are the growth prospects?

Firstly there is the benefit of working on high profile matters which is exciting and inevitably raises your profile as a lawyer. But working at one of the largest most prolific banks in the country means you are always exposed to different opportunities through the various business units I liaise with.

The bank encourages cross pollination from a career development perspective so one is always presented with career growth opportunities.

What advice would you give to an aspiring attorney?

Be prepared to work hard, remain passionate and optimistic about what you do. Believe in who you are confidence is key to being a lawyer.



Describe a day in the life of an attorney

In a nutshell lots of meetings, reading, consultations, research, deadlines and reports. But no day is ever the same. Emergencies crop up and one has to adapt quickly while managing an existing workload



Why did you choose this career?

I always thought lawyers were glamorous, yet clever. Seriously though, I am a problem solver. I like coming up with quick workable solutions to urgent and key problems.



How did you get into this career?

I did a Social Science undergraduate degree and then a postgraduate LLB degree. After doing articles I completed the Attorney's Board Exam, qualifying as a lawyer.

I practised as an attorney for a good few years before deciding to go to a corporate environment. I have been with Absa for six great and exciting years.