IWD: 60 Seconds with Sarah Munro

60 second Q&A with Sarah Munro

What was your career path like? Did you always want to work in this field?

I'm always a bit embarrassed to say that I have wanted to be a lawyer for as long as I can remember. I was 10 years PQE when I stopped practising, replacing external clients with internal ones when I became a practice manager. There are elements I miss (but certainly not the time recording) but it's unfailingly interesting to be involved in the firm's strategy and management.

What do you wish someone had told you early in your career?

I am afraid that it's sometimes necessary to blow your own trumpet, even if that doesn't come naturally!

What tips do you have for all the women coming up behind you?

I think we are fortunate as women in the legal profession that we have a tremendous amount of female role models that show us just how much it is possible to achieve. Sonya Leydecker is the perfect example of this, and those of us who worked with her have greatly benefited from her advice over the years. It's a cliché, but my tip is to believe in yourself.

What woman inspires you and why?

I am lucky to be surrounded by inspirational women, both in my personal and professional life, and think it is their attributes that really shine, rather than necessarily their reputation. I admire kindness and humility and try to emulate women I know who maintain those qualities, no matter how busy they are at work and at home. 

Where do you see the future taking you?

I have previously worked in both our Hong Kong and Shanghai offices, as well as in London. I wouldn't say no to another stint abroad at some point, preferably somewhere warm!