How would you describe your approach to work? I would say both “thorough and pragmatic”. In order to achieve the best results in Trade Marks it’s necessary to look at both the big picture and small picture at the same time. How do you problem solve? By always trying to factor in how the other party is likely to view the matter – which doesn’t always work but often will result in a quicker resolution for the client. What’s the key to being a great attorney? Giving sound advice and successful work at a fair price. What’s the best bit of advice you’ve had? My first boss practiced a mantra that has stuck with me: If you’re unsure, you should think ‘what would be the sensible option?’ and take that course of action. What’s the key to a great trade mark? Planning and protection. If you could work in another country, which would it be? Spain. What’s the best business book you have read? Jo Malone: My Story. It was fascinating to see how she built a business and a brand before selling it to a large corporation, and seeing how she dealt with the legal issues of selling her personal name. How has the IP industry changed during your career? Fundamentally many of the basics are the same – although the opportunities and challenges for brand creators and owners have expanded so much. How do you feel about networking? I think that networking should be second nature when you work as a trade mark attorney as just by doing your job you are coming into daily contact with people in different roles, from different disciplines and different businesses. It is the best bit of the job.