Claire Bentick
I joined FBC Manby Bowdler in 2021 as a Senior Associate in the Firm’s Commercial Litigation department.
I deal with a wide range of aspects of Commercial Litigation work such as Contract Disputes, Property Disputes, Professional Negligence, and Insolvency. I can provide clear and strategic advice to both businesses and individuals.
- Tell us a little bit about your business… / or the organisation you work for.
FBC Manby Bowdler LLP is a 35 Partner law firm and has been providing award winning legal advice to businesses and individuals since 1826. Employing over 190 people, the practice has six branches based throughout the West Midlands, Shropshire, and Worcestershire, and is focused on and committed to quality and excellent client care.
The firm prides itself on working in partnership with its clients to ensure the provision of commercial, innovative, and cost transparent legal advice that adds value and uncomplicates the legal process. We are proud to be a legal services provider that is constantly striving to do things differently in order to make legal services more accessible to clients and aligned with their needs.
- How did you get into the industry?
I have wanted to be a lawyer since I was a little girl. My interest in the law started from watching movies and television programmes associated with some form of civil or criminal trial. I was fascinated by the legal arguments and how the law could be interpreted. The challenges that the law brings is a key driver and one that continues to motivate me today.
- What are the biggest opportunities and challenges in your industry?
Opportunities
- Career Development.
- Personal growth.
- Helping people and businesses find a solution.
- The ability to change the law.
- Working as part of a team.
- The industry offers a wide and diverse range of specialities.
Challenges
- As a litigator there are deadlines that must be met.
- Some areas of the law change rapidly.
- The industry is becoming driven by technology.
- How would you describe your leadership style? (if not in a leadership role talk about your working style)
To deal with issues proactively and head on. To have an “open door” policy. A good culture is important to get the best out of the team. To treat each other with kindness and respect.
- How do you get the most out of the people who work for you? (or work with you)
Communication – to explain, to praise and to motivate.
- What are the most crucial elements to your business running smoothly and being successful?
- To do the best for the client.
- To understand the common goal and to work together to achieve it.
- How has the past 12 months been for you?
Busy, challenging and exciting.
- What will the next 12 months look like for you or your business?
To push my career, grow the department and increase profitability.
- What are the highlights of your career so far?
Knowing that I have made a difference to my clients by obtaining a successful resolution.
- What’s the biggest professional / business mistake that you’ve learnt from?
To ensure that there is a clear line of communication and to do the small things well.
- What’s the best piece of professional / business advice you’ve been given or would like to give?
No question is a silly question!
