What was your route into the profession?
I read law at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge University. During my second year, with everyone else, I applied for a summer job at various law firms. The only job offer I received which did not clash with a May ball, was within the insurance coverage team at Lawrence Graham (now Gowling WLG). So I accepted their offer, and that has resulted in a career of over 25 years specialising in (re)insurance coverage advices and disputes.
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
The most recent major challenge has been reinventing the manner in which we have had to work since March 2020. As someone who normally lives, works and socialises in the City of London, remote working and networking has been an entirely new experience for me, and has taken a lot of getting used to. This is particularly so as my work primarily involves dealing with the London insurance and reinsurance market, which has traditionally operated on a face-to-face basis.
Which person within the legal profession inspires you most?
My first boss, Michael Edwards, at Lawrence Graham. His work ethic and dedication set a high bar from the beginning of my career.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you choose as an alternate career?
When I was (a lot) younger, I wanted to be an Egyptologist because I was fascinated by the culture of Ancient Egypt. However, I can see now that the reality of carrying out any field work involving heat and dust would have defeated me!
Who is your favourite fictional lawyer?
I don’t really have one, but I was looking forward to watching the latest remake of Perry Mason until I discovered that my machine had failed to record the last episode …
What change would you make to the profession?
There has been a lot of discussion in recent times regarding diversity and inclusion, and about mental health. These are all issues which have needed to be addressed for a long time.
How do you relax?
For now: cooking, binge-watching Netflix and planning the next holiday.
Ling Ong is a partner at Weightmans and has recently been appointed as the new president of London FOIL.
