Name: Hannah Dowd
Company: Aaron and Partners Solicitors
Position: Associate Solicitor
What do you actually do day-to-day?
As an Employment Solicitor, my role is varied and dynamic, providing support and advice to both individual and employer clients across the spectrum of employment law. On any given day, I might be guiding an individual through a complex exit strategy, advising on whistleblowing or discrimination matters, or providing strategic HR advice to businesses on issues ranging from TUPE and redundancy to discrimination. I also deliver tailored training sessions on various employment law topics and conduct independent investigations into workplace issues. My responsibilities also encompass drafting bespoke contracts, policies, and handbooks, managing invoicing, and actively contributing to the firm’s growth through business development and cross-sector networking. My experience in running Tribunal litigation ensures I provide clients with pragmatic advice grounded in commercial realities of the ET. The breadth and ever-evolving nature of employment law ensures a diverse and engaging workload every day!
Have you ever had a mentor? If so, who? I had a fantastic mentor a couple of years ago, Sharon. While our “official” mentoring sessions often turned into enjoyable chats (we’re both quite talkative!), those very conversations were incredibly valuable to me in ways she might not even realise.
Does money motivate you? My motivation isn’t solely driven by financial gain. For me, money’s importance is rooted in its ability to secure my family’s future and empower me to extend a helping hand to those who need it.
What has been the most important event in your working life? Being nominated for a Rising Star Award at the Law Society Awards in 2020, during the height of lockdown, was an incredible honour. While I didn’t ultimately win, the nomination marked a really proud and significant moment in my career.
Who do you most admire? It’s hard to pick just one, as there are so many admirable people. My parents, for instance, deserve huge credit for shaping my work ethic and moral compass. Beyond that, I find myself admiring anyone who actively tries to improve things, people who are genuinely kind and considerate, those who take the time to listen, and individuals who live by strong, important values.
What does leadership mean to you? Having the ability to guide, influence and inspire others. It isn’t just about holding a position of authority but taking responsibility for the direction and success of a team or an organisation. It’s also about learning about your team, having the ability to talk to people in a constructive way and caring about your team. I am very lucky to have some superb leaders at Aaron and Partners.
What’s your favourite TV programme? Race Across the World
How do you relax? Movie nights with the kids.
Fry up or healthy smoothie? Fry up
Pub or club? Definitely a pub!
Gym or countryside walk? Countryside walk.
Favourite piece of music? Z Cars
Flannels or Florence & Fred? Florence & Fred wins every time!
Birkdale or Birkenhead? Definitely Birkenhead! Our beautiful, Wirral office is there (Egerton House), and those views across the Mersey are something else.