Here at WBW, we value every one of our team members. Each member of staff has their own stories, motivations and reasons why they enjoy working for WBW.
Today we talk to Kerry Curd, Partner in our Newton Abbot office.
What is your role at WBW and what area of law do you specialise in?
I’m Head of Employment Law and also the Training Partner.
What did you want to be when you were young?
I like to aim high so when I was really little, I wanted to be the Queen of England, or the Prime Minister.
What was your first full time job?
Trainee solicitor. However, I had many part time jobs from school age until my training contract, these ranged from teaching English in the summer holidays to retail and cleaning jobs. I am a firm believer that work experience of all types is valuable and helps you to grow.
How did you first get in to practising law?
My degree was combined honours, Psychology, English literature and Law and I hit it off with the law, so to speak. I did a law conversion course at Exeter University prior to the LPC and I secured work experience placements with local firms. By then I was sure this was the career for me.
How has your career developed at WBW Solicitors?
I joined with one year PQE in 2007. I quickly found the culture and people at WBW the right fit for me. I became an associate solicitor a few years later and in 2018 a salaried partner. In 2021 I joined the equity team as junior equity partner.
How does WBW nurture and develop career progression?
My career path is a good example that shows loyalty and hard work does pay off at WBW. As a firm, we try to make sure that people feel valued, supported and have opportunities to grow and achieve their goals. We are a firm believer in doing all we can to retain good people. Many of the Partners started off at a junior level at the firm. We currently have 5 trainee solicitors and groups of people studying for CILEX, licensed conveyancing and other things
What advice would you give to anyone considering or starting a career in law?
A career in law will give you opportunities. The industry is vast and variable. Aim to work in an environment and for a firm that suits you. Commercial Law in the city is very different to family law in a high street firm. Working as part of a large team offers a different experience to working solo. Work out what makes you tick.
What made you decide to practice employment law?
I like the fact that employment law is modern and progressive. We have to keep on our toes to keep up to date with employment law and it never gets boring.
Should you have an Employment Law matter that you wish to discuss with Kerry, please contact her by telephone on 01626 202406 or email kerrycurd@wbw.co.uk.
