Tell us about working at Morton Fraser MacRoberts
The firm strikes a great balance between a good working atmosphere and challenging business. There's a strong sense of community and we all work together to get the deals done. I've been with the firm along with some of my team for 10 years since we joined from Macdonalds in the 2013 merger. It's worked very well for us and our clients in providing bigger and better service. There is never a shortage of things to do, and we all keep more than occupied!
What type of work do you get involved in?
My team is the Property in Pensions Team, and we represent the majority of UK personal pension providers in commercial real estate matters. There's a very high volume of instruction which comes to us as a result as many of these clients hold hundreds if not thousands of properties across the UK. We also handle general real estate work for some very established commercial organisations, which covers the whole spectrum of commercial real estate advice.
What is your favourite part of your role?
I enjoy maintaining a close connection with our clients as it allows me to best understand the client's needs and provide the best possible service. This also ties in with our Business Development efforts in regular physical meetings and catch ups with these contacts across the UK. I've always relished the opportunity and challenges BD presents in securing and keeping clients and contacts wherever they may be.
How has your role changed during your time at the firm?
As we have developed the team structure and size, I have become more of an overseer than a transaction handler - but this is part and parcel of a partner role. We are always working towards better and more profitable delivery of our services. I have various additional roles at Morton Fraser outwith the PiP team, including having been involved as the Glasgow Risk Management Representative, and the AML team representative. I've also had the opportunity to work on various business development initiatives.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone looking to progress in your field?
You should always keep listening and learning. Get to know your clients and the people involved as humans (a physical meeting is worth a thousand e-mails!). Enjoy what you're doing as there are challenges but highs as well!
