Who is your in-house rising star of 2020

The In-house Rising Star award is a fantastic opportunity to recognise outstanding in-house trainees and NQs. Beth Anderson, Head of Engagement for In-house Lawyers at the Society, talks about why, this year more than ever, she would encourage the celebration of emerging in-house talent.

What is the In-house Rising Star award?

The award has been running since 2013 and it’s designed to shine a light on the wealth of talent we have in the in-house community. In particular, it’s a chance to recognise in-house solicitors in the early stages of their career. Each year we’re increasingly impressed by calibre of the nominations and the young talent working in-house. In 2019, we received an outstanding 13 applications – our highest number ever. Without exception, they were all worthy nominations. This year’s judging panel, made up of a group from the In-house Lawyers Committee, will undoubtedly have another unenviable task to decide the shortlist, more so the overall winner.

What’s different about this year?

The obvious. Covid-19 has impacted each member of the legal profession, all businesses and every part of civic society. In-house solicitors have had to adapt to new working practices, shifting regulatory and legal landscapes and as our recent research shows, increasing demands on their time and skills. I have absolutely no doubt that there are lots of examples of more junior members of in-house teams who’ve really shown their worth during this time.

For us, it means the judging panel will meet over video call and presentation of the award will take place at our fully online ‘In-house Legal Virtual Festival 2020’ in October rather than the usual in-person event. While not presented in person, this shouldn’t downplay the significance of winning the award!

How do I get involved?

Nominating is easy! To be eligible, nominees must be trainees or solicitors with up to five years PQE and currently working in-house.

It’s not only in-house solicitors that can do the nominating, you could be a non-legal colleague or a private practice solicitor with an in-house contact or client that you think deserves recognition. The award criteria include key achievements of the nominee; how they have innovated or improved legal process for their organisation; and positive contributions outside their employment.

And don’t be shy about promoting yourself – if you’re an in-house trainee or NQ that thinks your work deserves recognition, ask a colleague to nominate you.

The nomination form is available on our website and is straightforward to complete. Send your entries to me at bethanderson@lawscot.org.uk by 5pm on Friday 28 August.

Good luck and we’re really looking forward to receiving this year’s nominations!