Laura Mooney

I first started at Allen & Overy in November 2006 in the tax department as a temporary LPA for three weeks. I'd moved to London from Australia in July 2006, done some travel in Europe, and completed a short contract at a boutique law firm. I quickly settled into A&O life at One Bishops Square, and got to know the LPAs, associates and partners and experience how an English law firm was run. Having worked as a PA since finishing school at 17 years of age (and no, I'm not about to reveal my current age!), I was keen to get involved and learn how "the Brits do it". For almost a year I worked in the London office, before transferring to the Dubai office, where I have been since September 2007… I have made some long lasting friendships in both offices, and hope I continue to do so for some time to come.

I work for the Regional Managing Partner of the Middle East, as well as providing support to the Litigation team here in Dubai. I am also a Legal Support Supervisor, so oversee the Corporate LPA department - life as an LPA and LSS is definitely not boring! 

It's a wonderful experience to have exposure to different cultures in cities all around the world (London, Middle East) and be given the opportunity to work in these environments for a great firm. The culture, professionalism, great personalities and good work ethic that you find at A&O are second to none. I thoroughly enjoy working for a firm that is not only passionate about what it does, but about its people, and genuinely interested in whether or not their employees are happy, fulfilled and challenged.

I used to think the only thing wrong with A&O was their lack of presence in Australia - and now they have offices in my hometown of Sydney and also in Perth!