What does a career in corporate law really look like, and how is it changing? At our latest RadSoc business networking event, panellists shared insight into pathways into the profession, the realities of legal work, and the evolving landscape shaped by AI.
On Tuesday 17 March 2026, ORs, parents and current boys gathered at Norton Rose Fulbright in London, where we were generously hosted by James Collis (1983, B) and his team, for an evening exploring careers in corporate law. With the weather on our side (unseasonable blue skies and sunshine!) and panoramic views across the Thames towards the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, the event attracted a crowd of around 100, spanning all stages of career.
Our panel brought together experience from across private practice, in-house leadership and executive search:
- Caroline Donald (Radley parent) – Moderator – Deputy General Counsel, Head of Public Markets, Cleveland & Co
- Charlie Bischoff (Radley parent) – Partner, Head of Finance, Travers Smith LLP
- Julia Colegate-Stone – Partner, Hurston Eliot
- Robert Goldsmith (1991, E) – General Counsel, Brexa International
- Oliver Smith (2011, K) – Associate (Restructuring), Weil, Gotshal & Manges
The discussion ranged across the corporate legal sector, but kept returning to a central question: how you can build fulfilling and sustainable careers within it? On this, the panel were able to draw on their own experiences to provide brilliant advice and guidance.
“The evening was particularly effective, offering maximum exposure to a range of perspectives.” – Mustafa (2019, A)
A key theme was the distinction between private practice and in-house roles. Panellists demystified the differences, noting that those who enjoy becoming subject-matter experts may be drawn to private practice, while those with broader interests and a preference for generalism may find greater satisfaction in in-house roles, where legal work is integrated with all areas of a business.
“Oliver Smith’s move into restructuring highlighted how specialising in “special situations” like insolvency can be dynamic and impactful. This shifted my view of working in law.” – Luka (6.1, B)
The conversation also explored the increasing impact of artificial intelligence on the profession. Panellists reflected on how AI is being used in both recruitment processes and day-to-day legal work, particularly as a tool for research. This, in turn, is shifting the balance of junior roles towards analysis and judgement. At the same time, firms are becoming aware of the limitations of these technologies, emphasising the continued importance of critical thinking and human insight. Our moderator advised against leaning on it too much early in your career, suggesting trainees should earn their ‘AI license’ by mastering knowledge and skills first.
For younger attendees, a reassuring message was that a career in law does not require a traditional academic pathway. Panellists highlighted that non-law degrees remain a valid and often valuable route into the profession, with employers placing significant weight on core skills, intellectual curiosity and the ability to think clearly and analytically. The detail of the law, they noted, can be learned later.
“Last night was an excellent evening with lots of diverse content and insight into the law profession, and well structured.” – Mike (Radley parent)
Following the panel discussion and Q&A, attendees moved into smaller group conversations, allowing for further questions and reflections on individual career paths. The evening concluded with informal networking over drinks and canapés, with lively conversation continuing well into the evening.
“Something I really liked about the evening was the group discussion with the speakers. This gave me the opportunity to ask questions and gain insight in areas I hadn’t had previously.” – Wilf (2019, C/L)
Due to the strong turnout and plentiful wisdom in the room, this event offered a valuable opportunity to connect different generations of the Radley community and to explore a profession that continues to evolve.
We are grateful to all our panellists and attendees who made the evening a success.
Some photos from the evening:
To explore other RadSoc business networking events, visit our YouTube channel where recordings of both networking events and our Beyond Radley careers series are available.
Visit the RadSoc Business Network page for more information about the Radley community’s thriving professional network, and for links to Radley Connect, our online networking and careers platform.
