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Comprehensive school education, Liverpool University and Chester Law School, followed by a difficult hunt for articles as it was then. I was the first generation in my family to go to university, so it was a new path to navigate, which taught me the importance of sponsors and mentors throughout my career.
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
There have been so many however probably the most challenging was the head of office role for BLM and the office move incorporating a new policy of fully flexible working, open plan offices and hot desking—ahead of its time in hindsight.
In my role at Clyde & Co, I have enjoyed the challenge of managing international teams. We have a global reach allied to a sector focus, and this means we are able to get to grips with the complex and interconnected global risks faced by insurers and their clients.
Which person within the legal profession inspires you most?
There are so many but, as she passed away this year, I should name Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you choose as an alternate career?
In my dreams a 1970s rock star playing electric guitar and travelling the world. Closer to home something in economics or politics.
Who is your favourite fictional lawyer?
Difficult to choose—Miranda Hobbes from Sex and the City or maybe Dianne Lockhart from The Good Wife.
What change would you make to the profession?
I would like to see more rapid modernisation and the full range of diversity and inclusion at senior levels of the profession, not just women but incorporating social mobility, ethnic diversity and disabilities. There have been huge improvements over the last 20 years but there is still some way to go.
How do you relax?
In no particular order: running, weight training, music, films, friends and family.
Jennette Newman, President of the Forum of Insurance Lawyers (FOIL), and a Partner at Clyde & Co.
