NLJ CAREER PROFILE: Joy Kingsley, JMW Solicitors

What was your route into the profession?

I had an aunt who was a magistrate, and when I was 16 years old I went with her to the court. It was a revelation—I realised there and then that law was the one thing for me. I really liked the idea of appearing in court on behalf of clients. After that, it was the usual route one takes: A-Levels, then university, then Pannone, where I went from trainee to managing partner, and now JMW Solicitors, where I have spent a very happy 12 years.

What has been your biggest career challenge so far?

Dealing with the unexpected is always a challenge, and I’d suggest the past few years have been particularly challenging from that standpoint—from dealing with an economy that has suddenly tanked, to dealing with a wholly unexpected, worldwide pandemic.

Which person within the legal profession inspires you most?

I am afraid to say that I cannot single out just one person. I am inspired every day by different people: people I have worked with in the past, and those people with whom I work now. Inspiration comes from so many people in so many different ways, I find.

If you weren’t in the legal sector, what would you choose as an alternate career?

Now that is an easy one—high-end estate agency. I really love property, it’s one of my hobbies, so it’ll be no surprise to learn that I am an avid fan of many property shows, whether it be Grand Designs or Location, Location, Location—they’re all compelling. But, my all-time favourite is Million Dollar Listing New York. The show follows the lives of several estate agents working in the luxury market as they represent property owners in New York. Unmissable!

Who is your favourite fictional lawyer?

Harvey Specter, of Suits. He’s incredibly persuasive, is clearly talented and of course he’s very dedicated—and I really enjoy the friendship he has in the show with Mike Ross. They demonstrate genuine chemistry between colleagues, and that chemistry is based on a strong level of trust. I’d suggest that’s what we all want in our working relationships. I would add at this point that I do lots of other things besides watching box sets!

What change would you make to the profession?

Without question, I would like to see far greater female representation in leadership roles, Yes, it is happening, but it’s taken too long and it’s still not happening quickly enough. However, there has been some encouraging news recently. In February this year a government-backed FTSE women leaders review reported that the percentage of women in board roles at UK’s biggest listed firms had risen above 40% for first time. This is so important. Female leadership is inspiring for other women.

How do you relax?

I love to travel. I get enormous pleasure from travelling around the world, visiting different destinations and soaking up different cultures. I’m lucky enough to have a home in Majorca, and I thoroughly enjoy spending time there—it’s where I’m at my most relaxed. 

Joy Kingsley is the former managing partner of Pannone & senior partner of JMW Solicitors. She has been listed as one of the ten most innovative lawyers in the UK by the Financial Times, has received two Lifetime Achievement Awards, and this year was recognised by the Legal 500 Northern Powerhouse Awards as 'Management Partner of the Year, North'.