National Careers Week 2021

3 minutes to read.

Carpenters Group are taking part in National Careers Week!

We’re passionate about Learning & Development and have a culture of promoting internally.

Here's two great success stories from two of our colleagues, Mike Dunne & Paula Ezzat-

Read Mike's Story:

What is your role at Carpenters Group and what are you responsible for?
I currently work in the Commercial team as a Client Relationship Manager. I am responsible for managing the relationships of our existing clients along with bringing new work into the business. I get a great sense of achievement knowing that when I get new work, I am doing my bit in protecting the future of Carpenters Group.

Did you always want to work in this sort of work?
When I left school I wanted to be a fireman but for one reason or another it didn’t work out. I started working in retail and banking management before I moved into contact centre management. My first role at Carpenters Group was a Team Manager in FRU. I have progressed my career with a lot of determination, asking questions and spending time with the right people. This has enabled me to understand the business and how it works – something I consider to be hugely important, and would encourage others to do the same.

What skills do you need to work in a commercial environment and how do you get them?Lots of time is spent with people, so being a “people person” is really  important, as is understanding the link between commercial decisions and financial models. I believe in experiential type learning so I spend time with people, regardless of job role, who have the expertise and can provide me with those experiences.

Communication is also a vital skill, someone once told me “communication is the key to success – pass it on”.

Mike Dunne, Client Relationship Manager, Part of the Commercial Team in the Liverpool office.

Read Paula's Story:

How has your career progressed since joining Carpenters Group?
I joined Carpenters in 2009 as a Fee Earner with some previous experience of working in the legal sector. I had already completed the first year of a law degree whilst working full time  - which was hard work.
Within 2 years I was promoted to a Deputy Manager and by the time I had completed my degree in 2012 I was a Team Manager.

What development have you received during your career?
Throughout my career at Carpenters I have been supported with various professional development. After completing my degree I had a break of 2 years before I was encouraged to complete the LPC (Legal Practice Course), which I did. I then went on to complete a training contract before qualifying in February 2018 as a Solicitor – something that I am extremely proud of accomplishing.

If you had any advice to give to people thinking about a career in law, what would it be
There are opportunities in law providing that you work hard, and if you work hard at Carpenters Group you will receive the support that you need to progress your career.
It can be difficult to remain focussed on studying whilst working full time, but it is definitely worth it in the end.

In whatever stage of a career you are at, always remember – fail to prepare, prepare to fail!

Paula Ezzat, Team Manager, Part of the Legal Department in the Birkenhead Head Office.