At Squire Patton Boggs, we pride ourselves on having a Sports and Entertainment team comprised of remarkable individuals, and today, we are thrilled to introduce Gabe Pennington, Corporate associate in our Manchester office, who will be Captaining the England Mixed Team at the Touch World Cup 2024, taking place 15-21 July in Nottingham, UK.
In his day job, Gabe advises on national and international transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, private equity, corporate reorganisations and restructuring, shareholder arrangements and general corporate advice, and in his spare time, Gabe balances his demanding legal career with his passion for sport.
But how does he manage to excel in both arenas? He shares his journey and tips for striking the perfect work-life balance. Read on to find out more.
What advice would you offer to those in the legal field seeking to strike a better work-life balance and pursue their personal interests outside of work?
Being as organised as possible is really important, as well as diarising time during the week to allow you to get that training session in – or whatever hobby you’re passionate about.
How do your skills as Captain in the England mixed team translate into your work as a lawyer? Any surprising parallels?
The most important skill I think I’ve picked up relates to being in a leadership role. I’ve been lucky enough to play alongside some outstanding and inspiring leaders and where I can, I try to apply some of the lessons I’ve learned from them into my role at work.
What advice would you give someone considering a career in law, whilst heavily involved in sport?
Embrace every opportunity you have, in both fields. The challenging experiences (and more importantly, the mistakes you make) in both environments will only serve to you make you a better lawyer and a better athlete.
In what ways has Squire Patton Boggs supported and encouraged both of your careers?
Since I was a trainee, I’ve always been encouraged by my team to take advantage of opportunities across the firm, which included stints in Brussels and Paris where I was able to join and train with local Touch clubs in the two cities.
Why do you believe it’s important to have a balance between your personal interests and your legal career?
Through playing Touch for going on 13 years now, I’ve met some brilliant people from so many backgrounds and from around the world. Without that balance against my career, put simply, I would be missing out on so many opportunities!
We wish Gabe and the England team the best of luck at the Touch World Cup 2024!
