Work & Life with Ince Gordon Dadds’ Kerry Ferguson

Kerry Ferguson is EA to the Head of Finance & Administration at legal and professional services group Ince Gordon Dadds LLP. She tells Lisa Carter what she enjoys about her role, the challenges and how she’s coped with lockdown…

How did you get your current job?

I joined the firm 10 years ago as a Legal Secretary/Secretarial Co-ordinator to the Head of Property. After she left the firm I was offered a role in marketing or as a float secretary. I opted to take on the float role whilst still co-ordinating. Our firm went on to acquire a few other companies and I got stuck in assisting various departments including HR, and the CEO in the process. I was then approached by our CEO to take on the role as PA to the Head of Finance and Administration, as well as assisting our CEO on all his confidential matters. I was promoted to Executive Assistant shortly after that.

What is the best thing about your job?

Honestly, I love every aspect of my role because it is so varied and demanding. However, the best thing is knowing just how much I am valued and appreciated by my boss. He never hesitates to send me an email or give me a call to say thank you for all my hard work, which I personally find rewarding.

And the most challenging?

Every day is a challenge, and one of them is sharing an office with my boss, (thank goodness we have a great working relationship). It can become quite challenging at times as he is in constant demand which means work colleagues are in and out wanting meetings with him, and it can interrupt your flow of work. But it is all part and parcel of the job at the end of the day.

How has lockdown been for you, personally?

“Expect the unexpected” – that is what I say. You never know what may happen, as we all found out this year! Working for a large international law firm meant agile working was already in place for all partners, fee earners and PAs. The benefits have been saving on travel (a fair amount), being at home for my son after school and being able to eat earlier. The downside is not being able to get a wet signature as and when you need it, and I also miss socialising with colleagues.

Did you work from home before lockdown?

No, as this is not part of my contract. But the option is there for emergencies.

Would you like to continue with flexible working options going forward?

I would love that option and, personally, I think we could see this happening all over the country going forward.

How do you relax after a busy day?

I am blessed in having a beautiful garden with a summer house, which is where I love to relax after work, as it has everything in there, including a Gin Bar! It gives me time to catch up with my hubby and son after a hard day’s work.