Karen Davies, a corporate partner at Ashurst, advised Johnston Press on its acquisition of the i newspaper for £24 million. It makes the company, which owns The Scotsman and The Yorkshire Post, the UK’s fourth-largest news publishing group. [The last print editions of The Independent and The Independent on Sunday will be published at the end of this month.]
What were the main challenges?
As newspapers evolve to smartphone and tablet delivery, it’s good to feel part of any transaction that helps these guardians of our democracy. This deal required tying together many strands of activity and negotiation.
What was your worst day as a lawyer?
As a trainee, I was tasked by a litigation partner to attempt to disband some angry protestors who had chained themselves to various items of furniture at one of our clients, a defence company.
What was your most memorable experience?
Acting for Xchanging, a great client and a fantastic group of people. Having initially advised them on their flotation, our relationship has continued for ten years and I recently advised them on their takeover by Computer Sciences Corporation.
Who has been the most influential?
My family. Career-wise, Nicholas Holmes, who placed faith in me when he hired me to this firm and Simon Beddow (global co-head of corporate) who is genuine, motivating, and always leads by example.
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Why did you become a lawyer?
It was a toss-up between law and medicine but I was drawn to the opportunities for reasoning and debate. There was the additional benefit of there being, marginally, less blood involved.
What would your career advice be?
Talk to people in different branches of law. Becoming a family lawyer or a commercial lawyer is as different as being a civil engineer or a software engineer. And, most importantly, be prepared to work hard.
If you had not become a lawyer, what would you have chosen?
Medicine — I loved my science A-levels. If not that, I like to think I would currently be in the McLaren team helping Alonso and Button to prepare for the 2016/17 championship.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Still doing high-profile deals, be a much-improved skier and have finally found the time to go to more grand prix events.