In January, My Life in Law featured Anca Riscu, who joined Pannone on a three-month secondment from Swissport UK&I.
As part of the arrangement, Pannone trainee solicitor, Bronwyn Williams, headed in the opposite direction completing her own three-month secondment at the airport ground services and air cargo handling specialist.
Here, she tells us about the experience and her journey to date as a trainee.
You’ve recently completed a secondment to Swissport UK&I, swapping places with Anca Riscu. Tell us a little bit about that experience.
“During my secondment I was involved in numerous commercial matters and contract negotiations for services being provided at airports across the UK. I was also able to provide post-completion support to the business after the acquisition of ASC Handling Limited by Swissport GB Limited. It was so valuable working alongside the in-house legal team, who had such a wealth of experience, as well as working with other teams in the business. The experience has been so beneficial, and I have learnt so much that I will be able to take forward during the rest of my training contract and beyond.
“What I also took away from the three-month secondment was the importance of really understanding our clients’ businesses – something which I think is key to supporting clients effectively. As lawyers we need to be able to tailor our advice to each client and understand how any potential decision/legal strategy may impact on their business.”
You joined Pannone in March 2023, having been a paralegal in the financial services disputes and investigations team at your previous firm. What has your journey been like to date and what was it about Pannone that made you want to join the firm?
“I’m currently a trainee solicitor, having started my training contract in September 2025. This followed two-and-a-half years as a paralegal in the insolvency team. I am due to qualify as a solicitor in March 2027.
“When it comes to Pannone, after my interview I knew that Pannone would be a great fit for me – it just ticked so many boxes. What differentiates Pannone from other firms is that whilst continuing to grow in the legal market, it has maintained the positive and intimate culture which makes Pannone what it is. I thoroughly enjoy being able to work alongside experienced and approachable solicitors, as well as socialising with colleagues outside of working hours.”
What route did you go down, in terms of training and qualifications, and why did you go down that pathway?
“I went down the traditional route. I graduated from Lancaster University in 2021, after completing my law degree. I then worked as a paralegal for two years before studying the LPC part time (alongside full-time work) for two years.
“At the time, it was the main and most common route. I also always knew I wanted to go to university even though I can see the huge benefits of the alternative routes now available such as apprenticeships.”
What is the most satisfying aspect of your job and what does a typical day look like?
“I think it comes down to enjoying problem solving. It is crucial to be able to understand a client’s position, what their legal issue is and then working with them to help solve that particular issue – that part of the job is really satisfying.
“In terms of a typical day, as a trainee, my day is never the same. It’s great being able to work with different members of the team. At the moment I am in the employment team, so the day may start with a client call advising on a TUPE matter and then preparing a settlement agreement – I love the variety that this career gives you!”
What are your career ambitions?
“In the short term, I would like to complete my training contract and qualify as a solicitor. After that, I want to continue to progress in terms of my technical ability and strengthening client relationships, which will hopefully help in climbing the corporate ladder.”