THE GL ASS CEILING MEREDITH CAMPION (STOATE ’79)
PARTNER, ALLEN & OVERY
I AM A PARTNER AT ALLEN & OVERY, A LAW FIRM WITH 44 OFFICES IN 30 COUNTRIES. A CAREER IN A GLOBAL LAW FIRM PRESENTS AMAZING OPPORTUNITIES
TO
CHALLENGE
YOURSELF,
WORK
AS
PART
OF
AN
INTERNATIONAL TEAM AND TRAVEL. WHILE IT DOES REQUIRE COMMITMENT (AND OFTEN LONG HOURS), I HAVE ALWAYS FOUND IT TO BE INTERESTING, REWARDING AND EVEN FUN.
My advice to students is to: 1.
Follow your passion. Before pursuing a career in law, I studied languages and taught French and German for four years. I loved studying languages and spent time in both France and Germany. Although I didn't appreciate it when I decided to study law, my languages have been very beneficial to my legal career as I have found myself negotiating mining agreements in French in francophone Africa.
2.
Women can have it all. While it is clear that the gender inequality gap still exists (approximately only 20 per cent of partners in law firms are female despite female students making up the majority of students at law schools), I have always been treated equally and indeed, strongly supported to achieve my goals. While studying law as a mature age student, I had two of my three children, and have worked full-time throughout my legal career, a choice that I made and am happy with. However, a career in law allows flexibility for working mothers. Increasingly, women have been able to make their own choices, and some of my colleagues work at home and part-time, while retaining the ability to do challenging work and progress their career.
“Working in kitchens? Why don’t you get a real job?” I was asked these questions countless times when I was starting out. Then, the 1980s brought along the likes of Stephanie Alexander, Gay Bilson and Maggie Beer - all inspired amateur, ‘self-taught’ cooks, who were making a real contribution to society through their efforts and commitment to excellent food. I executed my first external catering event in September 1981. And the rest was history. I have been a part of Perth’s events and hospitality scene for the past 33 years. Through sheer hard work and determination, I have created an excellent reputation for fine catering and event planning with COMESTIBLES. In October, COMESTIBLES provided catering for 1050 guests at the opening of the Fiona Stanley Hospital and for the welcoming of the new Governor of WA, Mrs Kerry Sanderson, at Government House. In November, COMESTIBLES will prepare a sit-down meal for 600 guests at the Wesfarmers 100th Year celebration.
3.
Feel confident to step out of your comfort zone. Eleanor Roosevelt said: "Do one thing every day that scares you.” I advise you to take on challenges and not be overwhelmed by them. While not scared, I still feel challenged each day, but in a very supportive and collaborative environment. Challenges occur throughout your life and you should embrace them.
4.
And lastly, seize the day. Make the most of every opportunity. I feel very privileged to have had such a wonderful school education at St Mary's, which provided me with the opportunity to accept challenges and pursue a fulfilling career. No matter what career path(s) you choose, make the most of it!
A significant career highlight was catering for the Royal Garden Party in 2011, which won favour with Buckingham Palace! Working as a waitress has been stereotyped in the past as a means of earning money while studying. I view it as an opportunity to learn some of the most important lessons in life. It doesn’t matter what career you ultimately choose in life, everyone needs to develop service skills: the ability to listen, to anticipate your colleagues’ needs and to work as part of a team. These days, the hospitality industry is really beginning to find its feet. Universities now offer undergraduate degrees in Event Management. It is an amazing path to success and one that is not necessarily acknowledged or rewarded. Regardless, the future of this industry is an exciting one.
Old Girls' News and Events
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