ELLINT:FX - Al Harvey discusses his mini-secondment in Romania

This year saw the launch of ELLINT:FX, an initiative which provides non-partner fee earners with an opportunity to participate in a mini-secondment at one of ELLINT’s member firms.

In addition to strengthening relationships with our ELLINT colleagues, ELLINT:FX also enables participants to experience a new work culture and to learn about new systems, processes and different approaches to law.

Al Harvey, an associate in our Immigration and Employment teams, was the first successful applicant and he travelled to Romania to work with our colleagues at Suciu. Below, he discusses why he applied and how he found the experience.

Why did you apply to participate in ELLINT:FX?

It provided me with a rare opportunity to work abroad, which doesn't present itself often in this line of work. I also felt it would be a good opportunity to build connections with other law firms, which is particularly of relevance given my areas of specialism, which often has cross-border considerations.

Why did you choose to work with Suciu in Romania?

Andreea Suciu, the Managing Partner, and the firm are highly spoken of by my Doyle Clayton colleagues, including how friendly Andreea and her team are.. I have studied in France, and have experience of the legal system in other countries in western Europe, so was really drawn to the opportunity of experiencing legal practice in a completely new jurisdiction. I have also long been interested in Romania, but the opportunity to visit had never arisen, so this sounded like a perfect opportunity.

What were your expectations heading into the secondment?

I didn’t really have any expectations, and was just looking forward to the experience. From a professional perspective, I was intrigued to see if there were any differences in how they approached work, and also to see what similarities there were.

What benefits did you take from the experience?

I felt a real part of team Suciu by the end of the experience - that we are now friends! I feel comfortable being able to reach out to the team with queries, and hope they feel the same. It's also motivated me to work more on expanding my professional network, and I am hoping to build more connections within the ELLINT community.

Did you learn anything that you will apply to your role in the UK?

The main thing I took away from the experience was gaining more confidence in business development and networking, which is increasingly an important aspect of my role. I will definitely be more proactive in this area and look forward to creating and building new professional relationships.

Would you encourage your colleagues to apply?

I definitely would encourage others to apply. The team at Suciu made me so welcome, and made sure I was well looked after, and I got a real flavour of professional and social life in Bucharest. Personal highlights were the opportunity to visit the stunning Court of Appeal, and sit in on some hearings (though, admittedly, my comprehension was limited!) and the traditional Romanian / rock fusion concert they took me to one evening! I look forward to seeing the team again - not just as great business contacts, but as friends.