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"What set First Counsel apart was the way that Louise listened to what I wanted to do in London and then developed a strategy to help me achieve it. It meant that I felt like an individual rather than just a commodity. I've since recommended First Counsel to others and they have had the same experience. I've definitely ended up with the best job in London for me."
"I recommend First Counsel and Alun Evans in particular to anyone who requires an adviser, not just someone who merely sends out your CV. Pursuing an overseas position during times of global economic uncertainty was never going to be easy but from the very first contact, Alun was always helpful and supportive, particularly in CV and interview preparation. In addition to his knowledge of the market (from traditional to emerging ones) and professionalism, Alun's attention to detail, coaching skills and contactability (even at odd hours) were all confidence instilling. If you thought all recruitment agents are the same, well you should talk to the right adviser."
"The decision to move overseas is not an easy one, so I found it invaluable to have a guide who had worked as a lawyer in the UK who could assist me with my questions and concerns. My advisor was able to quickly identify with my personality and career aspirations and short-listed firms that were a good fit for both my experience and personality. He guided me in the correct preparation of my CV and was of great assistance in preparing me for my interviews.
My advisor's approach to finding me the right job was well informed, attentive, personal and professional and I would recommend him, and First Counsel, to anyone who is seeking to find a top job in the UK that fits their personal mould."
"I would thoroughly recommend First Counsel. Unlike another recruiter that I spoke to once and never heard from again, Louise kept me regularly informed and took an active interest in securing me a role. Added to this the pre-interview preparation was outstanding and I felt well prepared to tackle any question thrown at me. It provides considerable comfort during what can be a stressful process when you feel that you have someone who has your best interests at heart."
"Part way through my postgraduate studies in the UK, the global financial crisis hit with a vengeance. I was sure at that stage that I would not have a chance at finding any work in London at the completion of my studies. Alun Evans however remained confident that I could find not just a job, but a position that was exactly what I was after. And so it turned out. Alun's persistence, organisation, attention to detail and responsiveness took much of the stress out of the job-seeking process. Further, much of the First Counsel team, in both Sydney and London, provided significant assistance to me throughout the process. I would like to thank Alun and the First Counsel team for all their help. I have already recommended Alun and First Counsel to my colleagues, and expect to recommend them again and again in the future."
"We would certainly recommend First Counsel. Our advisor spent considerable time listening to our plans and goals, offered good suggestions and advice throughout the process and helped us secure the positions we wanted. He was always available to talk and advise and there was no pressure to take the first offer received."
"It was a pleasure working with Louise Leecy. She was able to secure the right opportunities for me in a short amount of time. I was particularly impressed by her sincere and proactive approach, and would definitely recommend her to anyone who wants to make quick progress in their job search."
"When my husband relocated to the UK and I was faced with the prospect of having to find work at a time when law firms were announcing redundancies and pay freezes, I was not optimistic about my chances. However, I need not have worried. Alun Evans quickly identified the type of roles which would interest me and advance my career, and then relentlessly helped me pursue them. He gave me very valuable advice at every step of the process, particularly in the lead up to job interviews. Within only three weeks of arriving in the UK, I had accepted a position with a highly regarded niche firm that is perfect for me. I am so grateful to First Counsel, and Alun in particular, for all their help. First Counsel was recommended to me, and I would not hesitate to commend them to anyone looking for legal work in London. In fact, I have already done so. Thank you Alun and First Counsel."
"Right from the start I knew First Counsel was different. Professional, honest, knowledgeable, understanding and an ability to anticipate my needs with a view to finding the right "fit" for me. Finding the right firm in London is very difficult, particularly when you are making that decision half way around the world without the benefit of local industry knowledge. I felt I got independent insight into the culture and work environment of London based firms which was a tremendous help when it came time to deciding where to work. I would recommend First Counsel to anyone looking for legal work in the United Kingdom."
"First Counsel was one of a number of recruitment agencies that I contacted when I decided to move from Melbourne to London. Louise Leecy of First Counsel stood head and shoulders above the other recruiters that I dealt with during that process. Her knowledge of the UK market, willingness to spend time preparing me for interviews, regular progress updates and ability to get me to the interview stage were first rate. When I recently made another move within the London market I contacted Louise solely and was again impressed by her dedication and pragmatic advice."
"I was referred to Louise Leecy and Alun Evans of First Counsel by a work colleague. I initially contacted First Counsel by email and was impressed by their prompt response. Being a senior lawyer, I understood that there was going to be challenges in finding an overseas position for someone of my seniority. Despite this, Alun found me a position in a magic circle firm. His service and professionalism was of a high standard and his responsiveness and attention to detail was reassuring. What makes First Counsel stand out from other recruitment agencies is its commitment towards its clients. Alun took the time to understand both my career direction and the skills I had to offer in determining which firms and jurisdiction to target. He was not only professional but genuinely interested in finding the right role for me. Alun's attention to detail, his assistance in preparing for interviews, his frank and honest feedback and the quality of his relationships with employers were second to none. No trouble was spared in assisting me and I was kept fully up to date with where my CV was presented and the status of my applications. Further, that interest and commitment did not stop once I was placed overseas. I received several follow up calls and emails from Alun which not only impressed me personally but professionally. I have no hesitations recommending both Alun and First Counsel."
"From helping me with my cv to advising on the different firms and departments, my advisor really knows the market and I really admired his dedication - particularly when he prepped me on the weekend before my interview.
I would recommend him to all my friends who are looking to go to London."
“Louise Leecy was absolutely fantastic to work with! I found her to be incredibly efficient and her knowledge of the market excellent. Her interview preparation was very useful and she kept me informed of progress every step of the way. I would have absolutely no hesitation in recommending her to those ready to make the big move.”
"Alun was brilliant. I got a clear and honest appraisal of my prospects, helpful assistance with my CV, a series of interviews with top-notch firms and individualised coaching on interview technique. Above all, I got a professional and diligent advisor who guided me through the recruitment process and helped me achieve a positive result. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Alun to anyone who is looking to make the move overseas."
“My advisor inspired my confidence by, among other things, looking beyond my c.v. when trying to assist me in finding a position with a firm that would "be the right fit". He was positive, professional, and a pleasure to work with.”
“I arrived in London last year with less than two years experience in Australia and no job.
Louise very quickly secured me a half a dozen interviews with top tier and Magic Circle firms in London. Just as importantly, she gave me no-nonsense advice as to which of these firms would best suit my career goals and personality.
I had been travelling for some time and initially completely unprepared for the rigorous interviews that I would face. Louise spent several hours on the telephone helping me to hone CV and interview technique, input that I realised was crucial once I was actually interviewing. The result was that I was able to quickly secure a great position at a top firm.
I would recommend Louise to anyone looking for top tier work in London. She makes herself accessible, can be relied upon to get on with the job and can be trusted to give well-informed, realistic advice.”
"When my boyfriend was accepted for postgraduate study in London I had to find a position in London quite quickly. Alun did a stellar job, discussing my needs at length and investigating the various firms to ensure that we found just the right 'fit'. Alun's regular communication and attentiveness ensured that, despite the tight London market, I was made a very attractive offer by a great firm in precisely the practice group I was looking for - and in record time! It was such a weight off my mind to arrive in London and know that the employment side of things was taken care of. Thank you so much to First Counsel and particularly to Alun for a terrific outcome - I will not hesitate to recommend you."
"My advisor gave me a very practical and realistic view of the firms in London and also the type of experience I could expect from working at the different firms. The pointers she gave me on the interview process (and especially the mock interview) were very helpful in preparing me for my interviews. I would highly recommend using First Counsel for finding employment in London."
"I had a great experience with First Counsel. Louise was very honest about the opportunities available and she really listened to what I was looking for in London. I was surprised at how quickly Louise was able to arrange interviews and I was kept fully informed throughout the process. Of particular benefit was the pre-interview preparation, which ensured that I wasn't thrown by tough questions during interviews. I have since recommended Louise to friends who have had similar positive experiences."
"I was really impressed with how First Counsel made sure that I was as well prepared as possible for interviews, what with the mock interviews and providing background info on law firms that I was interviewing with - also very impressed with the way they followed up and actually took an interest in how things panned out. From what I hear from other people, not many other recruitment agents help with interview preparation as much so that really is a point of difference in the services First Counsel offers and why I would recommend them."
"As a first impression, I was extremely impressed with the level of quality and professionalism of the First Counsel team. Whilst initially apprehensive about the move abroad, Louise Leecy and her colleagues made the choice an easy one. From fielding questions about the relevant firms to helping prepare for the interviews, Louise was extremely accessible and made the process as painless as possible. Highly recommended."
"After practicing in a State based jurisdiction for four years, I approached a number of legal recruiters with the view to finding employment in the UK. On each occasion I was told my skills were not transferable, and obtaining any position would be almost impossible. After speaking with First-Counsel, significant effort to think "outside the square" was made on my behalf. First Counsel placed me with a leading London firm, in a jurisdiction where many of my skills are transferable! Thank you for achieving what others said was unachievable."
"I literally couldn’t have done it without you. You were a fantastic help - very professional yet helpful. The process was a somewhat difficult one but really made easy by your assistance and encouragement. I hear that my experience was very different from other people's experience of recruitment consultants."
Testimonials
"I highly recommend First Counsel and Alun Evans to anyone looking to make the overseas move. During the entire process, Alun worked with enthusiasm and energy and was genuinely interested in securing a good outcome for me. Alun's determination, knowledge of the market and his understanding about my priorities and career goals meant that he was able to find the best possible options for me during a time when the legal market was in a downturn. I received excellent advice for the preparation of my CV and interviews which boosted my confidence about the whole process. Alun kept me constantly updated about the progress of my applications and was available at all times to speak about anything (even helping me prep for an interview over the phone late one evening). I would not hesitate to recommend Alun and First Counsel to any of my friends and colleagues."Judy Yeung, Clyde & Co (formerly Top 10 Australian Law Firm)
"What set First Counsel apart was the way that Louise listened to what I wanted to do in London and then developed a strategy to help me achieve it. It meant that I felt like an individual rather than just a commodity. I've since recommended First Counsel to others and they have had the same experience. I've definitely ended up with the best job in London for me."
S Caughey, Olswang (formerly Bell Gully, Finance)
"I recommend First Counsel and Alun Evans in particular to anyone who requires an adviser, not just someone who merely sends out your CV. Pursuing an overseas position during times of global economic uncertainty was never going to be easy but from the very first contact, Alun was always helpful and supportive, particularly in CV and interview preparation. In addition to his knowledge of the market (from traditional to emerging ones) and professionalism, Alun's attention to detail, coaching skills and contactability (even at odd hours) were all confidence instilling. If you thought all recruitment agents are the same, well you should talk to the right adviser."
Eric Ho, Clyde & Co (formerly DLA Phillips Fox)
"The decision to move overseas is not an easy one, so I found it invaluable to have a guide who had worked as a lawyer in the UK who could assist me with my questions and concerns. My advisor was able to quickly identify with my personality and career aspirations and short-listed firms that were a good fit for both my experience and personality. He guided me in the correct preparation of my CV and was of great assistance in preparing me for my interviews.
My advisor's approach to finding me the right job was well informed, attentive, personal and professional and I would recommend him, and First Counsel, to anyone who is seeking to find a top job in the UK that fits their personal mould."
K Griffin, Eversheds (formerly Minter Ellison, Corporate)
"I would thoroughly recommend First Counsel. Unlike another recruiter that I spoke to once and never heard from again, Louise kept me regularly informed and took an active interest in securing me a role. Added to this the pre-interview preparation was outstanding and I felt well prepared to tackle any question thrown at me. It provides considerable comfort during what can be a stressful process when you feel that you have someone who has your best interests at heart."
P Norton, Clyde & Co (formerly Bell Gully, Tax)
"Part way through my postgraduate studies in the UK, the global financial crisis hit with a vengeance. I was sure at that stage that I would not have a chance at finding any work in London at the completion of my studies. Alun Evans however remained confident that I could find not just a job, but a position that was exactly what I was after. And so it turned out. Alun's persistence, organisation, attention to detail and responsiveness took much of the stress out of the job-seeking process. Further, much of the First Counsel team, in both Sydney and London, provided significant assistance to me throughout the process. I would like to thank Alun and the First Counsel team for all their help. I have already recommended Alun and First Counsel to my colleagues, and expect to recommend them again and again in the future."
Robert Williams, Shearman & Sterling LLP (formerly Mallesons Stephen Jaques)
"We would certainly recommend First Counsel. Our advisor spent considerable time listening to our plans and goals, offered good suggestions and advice throughout the process and helped us secure the positions we wanted. He was always available to talk and advise and there was no pressure to take the first offer received."
S & S Jack, (formerly Russell McVeagh, Property & Corporate)
"It was a pleasure working with Louise Leecy. She was able to secure the right opportunities for me in a short amount of time. I was particularly impressed by her sincere and proactive approach, and would definitely recommend her to anyone who wants to make quick progress in their job search."
M Chan, Watson Farely Williams (formerly Blakiston Crab)
"When my husband relocated to the UK and I was faced with the prospect of having to find work at a time when law firms were announcing redundancies and pay freezes, I was not optimistic about my chances. However, I need not have worried. Alun Evans quickly identified the type of roles which would interest me and advance my career, and then relentlessly helped me pursue them. He gave me very valuable advice at every step of the process, particularly in the lead up to job interviews. Within only three weeks of arriving in the UK, I had accepted a position with a highly regarded niche firm that is perfect for me. I am so grateful to First Counsel, and Alun in particular, for all their help. First Counsel was recommended to me, and I would not hesitate to commend them to anyone looking for legal work in London. In fact, I have already done so. Thank you Alun and First Counsel."
J Ainsworth, Capsticks (formerly Clayton Utz)
"Right from the start I knew First Counsel was different. Professional, honest, knowledgeable, understanding and an ability to anticipate my needs with a view to finding the right "fit" for me. Finding the right firm in London is very difficult, particularly when you are making that decision half way around the world without the benefit of local industry knowledge. I felt I got independent insight into the culture and work environment of London based firms which was a tremendous help when it came time to deciding where to work. I would recommend First Counsel to anyone looking for legal work in the United Kingdom."
J Gillian, Blake Dawson Waldron
"First Counsel was one of a number of recruitment agencies that I contacted when I decided to move from Melbourne to London. Louise Leecy of First Counsel stood head and shoulders above the other recruiters that I dealt with during that process. Her knowledge of the UK market, willingness to spend time preparing me for interviews, regular progress updates and ability to get me to the interview stage were first rate. When I recently made another move within the London market I contacted Louise solely and was again impressed by her dedication and pragmatic advice."
A Nealon, Dewey and Le Boeuf (formerly Minter Ellison, Construction)
"I was referred to Louise Leecy and Alun Evans of First Counsel by a work colleague. I initially contacted First Counsel by email and was impressed by their prompt response. Being a senior lawyer, I understood that there was going to be challenges in finding an overseas position for someone of my seniority. Despite this, Alun found me a position in a magic circle firm. His service and professionalism was of a high standard and his responsiveness and attention to detail was reassuring. What makes First Counsel stand out from other recruitment agencies is its commitment towards its clients. Alun took the time to understand both my career direction and the skills I had to offer in determining which firms and jurisdiction to target. He was not only professional but genuinely interested in finding the right role for me. Alun's attention to detail, his assistance in preparing for interviews, his frank and honest feedback and the quality of his relationships with employers were second to none. No trouble was spared in assisting me and I was kept fully up to date with where my CV was presented and the status of my applications. Further, that interest and commitment did not stop once I was placed overseas. I received several follow up calls and emails from Alun which not only impressed me personally but professionally. I have no hesitations recommending both Alun and First Counsel."
N Diakoumis, Clifford Chance (formerly DLA Phillips Fox)
"From helping me with my cv to advising on the different firms and departments, my advisor really knows the market and I really admired his dedication - particularly when he prepped me on the weekend before my interview.
I would recommend him to all my friends who are looking to go to London."
P Chong, Finance Lawyer, Allen & Overy
“Louise Leecy was absolutely fantastic to work with! I found her to be incredibly efficient and her knowledge of the market excellent. Her interview preparation was very useful and she kept me informed of progress every step of the way. I would have absolutely no hesitation in recommending her to those ready to make the big move.”
A Mahon, White & Case
"Alun was brilliant. I got a clear and honest appraisal of my prospects, helpful assistance with my CV, a series of interviews with top-notch firms and individualised coaching on interview technique. Above all, I got a professional and diligent advisor who guided me through the recruitment process and helped me achieve a positive result. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Alun to anyone who is looking to make the move overseas."
A Newton, Magic Circle Firm (formerly Allens Arthur Robinson)
“My advisor inspired my confidence by, among other things, looking beyond my c.v. when trying to assist me in finding a position with a firm that would "be the right fit". He was positive, professional, and a pleasure to work with.”
P Crewson, Projects Lawyer, Ashurst (UK)
“I arrived in London last year with less than two years experience in Australia and no job.
Louise very quickly secured me a half a dozen interviews with top tier and Magic Circle firms in London. Just as importantly, she gave me no-nonsense advice as to which of these firms would best suit my career goals and personality.
I had been travelling for some time and initially completely unprepared for the rigorous interviews that I would face. Louise spent several hours on the telephone helping me to hone CV and interview technique, input that I realised was crucial once I was actually interviewing. The result was that I was able to quickly secure a great position at a top firm.
I would recommend Louise to anyone looking for top tier work in London. She makes herself accessible, can be relied upon to get on with the job and can be trusted to give well-informed, realistic advice.”
P Dornan, Minter Ellison, Construction
"When my boyfriend was accepted for postgraduate study in London I had to find a position in London quite quickly. Alun did a stellar job, discussing my needs at length and investigating the various firms to ensure that we found just the right 'fit'. Alun's regular communication and attentiveness ensured that, despite the tight London market, I was made a very attractive offer by a great firm in precisely the practice group I was looking for - and in record time! It was such a weight off my mind to arrive in London and know that the employment side of things was taken care of. Thank you so much to First Counsel and particularly to Alun for a terrific outcome - I will not hesitate to recommend you."
S Landsberry, CMS Cameron McKenna (formerly Clayton Utz)
"My advisor gave me a very practical and realistic view of the firms in London and also the type of experience I could expect from working at the different firms. The pointers she gave me on the interview process (and especially the mock interview) were very helpful in preparing me for my interviews. I would highly recommend using First Counsel for finding employment in London."
A Anandanayagam, Linklaters (formerly Bell Gully, IT)
"I had a great experience with First Counsel. Louise was very honest about the opportunities available and she really listened to what I was looking for in London. I was surprised at how quickly Louise was able to arrange interviews and I was kept fully informed throughout the process. Of particular benefit was the pre-interview preparation, which ensured that I wasn't thrown by tough questions during interviews. I have since recommended Louise to friends who have had similar positive experiences."
S Campbell, Slaughter and May (formerly IT/IP Blake Dawson Waldron)
"I was really impressed with how First Counsel made sure that I was as well prepared as possible for interviews, what with the mock interviews and providing background info on law firms that I was interviewing with - also very impressed with the way they followed up and actually took an interest in how things panned out. From what I hear from other people, not many other recruitment agents help with interview preparation as much so that really is a point of difference in the services First Counsel offers and why I would recommend them."
L Stevens, Freshfields (formerly Allens Arthur Robinson)
"As a first impression, I was extremely impressed with the level of quality and professionalism of the First Counsel team. Whilst initially apprehensive about the move abroad, Louise Leecy and her colleagues made the choice an easy one. From fielding questions about the relevant firms to helping prepare for the interviews, Louise was extremely accessible and made the process as painless as possible. Highly recommended."
Dave Kirkland, White & Case, Finance
"After practicing in a State based jurisdiction for four years, I approached a number of legal recruiters with the view to finding employment in the UK. On each occasion I was told my skills were not transferable, and obtaining any position would be almost impossible. After speaking with First-Counsel, significant effort to think "outside the square" was made on my behalf. First Counsel placed me with a leading London firm, in a jurisdiction where many of my skills are transferable! Thank you for achieving what others said was unachievable."
P Barry (formerly Deacons)
"I literally couldn’t have done it without you. You were a fantastic help - very professional yet helpful. The process was a somewhat difficult one but really made easy by your assistance and encouragement. I hear that my experience was very different from other people's experience of recruitment consultants."