​Q&A with Senior Legal Consultant Niamh Lawton

As the Mason Alexander team grows and develops, we caught up with Senior Legal Consultant Niamh Lawton to get her thoughts on what 2020 holds in store for the legal market in Ireland.

Tell us a bit about your background

I am originally from Edenderry in Co. Offaly but came to Dublin 9 years ago for University and have been here ever since.

How did you get into recruitment?

As part of my degree, I specialised in HR and I knew that this was an area that I wanted to pursue after University. Before joining MA I worked as an in-house recruiter with Matheson, one of Ireland’s top law firms, for four and a half years.

What do you do at MA?

I head up the Legal recruitment desk. I work across the legal spectrum, both in-house and in-practice, with particular emphasis on Legal Secretary, Legal Executive, Paralegal, NQ, In-House Counsel, Company Secretary, Solicitor, Senior Associate and Partner positions.

What is your market like at the moment?

I think that 2020 is going to be another big year for Ireland’s legal industry and we are going to continue to see a period of sustained growth. With the UK’s departure from the European Union on 31 January last, Dublin is a very attractive place for international firms to set up in due to our use of the Common Law system and our highly educated and specialised legal professionals.

What does a typical day at work / or work week look like for you?

No two days are the same, but I try to divide my time equally between clients and candidates. I really enjoy getting out and meeting candidates but also spending time researching the market and providing advice to clients.

Any tips for people looking for a new job?

It’s important to know your CV inside out and practice answering questions by writing out the answers. It can be helpful to record yourself while someone acts as an interviewer. It’s the best way to see how you come across and you will notice any bad habits!

Can you recommend any habits that have helped your professional life?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Observe how your colleagues work, you will pick up so many useful habits.

Who inspires you?

Paralympian Jason Smith, Activist Sinead Kane and former New Zealand rugby international Jonah Lomu.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Hard work always pays off so put the effort in and be patient.

Niamh Lawton
Senior Legal Consultant
n.lawton@masonalexander.ie