Showcasing some of Jersey’s brightest stars from Jersey’s brightest employers.
Laura Sones – Associate at Appleby (Jersey) LLP
Why Appleby?
Funnily enough, before the Esplanade was converted into offices blocks, my first childhood home was a flat in the building which later became our current Appleby HQ. So not only did I learn to walk close to where my office now is, but it was the place where I took my first steps after university and launched my legal career in 2021.
I was initially interviewed by property legend John Bisson who was celebrating 50 years at Appleby that year – so I thought it couldn’t be that bad! From my first day, I have learned from some of the most brilliant (and patient) legal minds in the offshore world, including colleagues in Appleby’s other offices in Guernsey and the Isle of Man. The firm has encouraged my growth and allowed me to explore different areas of law and, when I have shown a particular interest, the partners are keen to accommodate. This led to an internal transfer from the Property department to the Dispute Resolution department where I am today.
Since joining the Dispute Resolution team, I have been involved in a broad variety of contentious matters, including commercial and corporate matters, employment and regulatory matters, enforcement of securities and debt recovery, contentious trusts, insolvency, medical negligence and personal injury. This has been great, especially at the beginning of my career, and I particularly enjoy the weird and wonderful Jersey legal traditions!
I have also had the unique opportunity to work with colleagues in other jurisdictions, for example in Manx trust or Guernsey employment matters. No one can say that an Appleby Associate is a one-trick pony. I have been entrusted with a high level of responsibility for this stage of my career and, although it sometimes feels like a baptism of fire, this has developed my confidence and allowed me to flourish.
The firm supported me through the SQE2 examinations to qualify as an English Solicitor, even though there wasn’t a formal trainee scheme at the time. I set out a proposal and partners were keen to do all they could to help, something which I believe helped me achieve an overall mark of 80%. Last year, I started the Jersey Law Course and again enjoy their support. I look forward to qualifying as a Jersey Advocate in the near future.
It is the people who make Appleby the wonderful place that it is. The frequent social events, from boat parties in the summer to wreath making at Christmas, give everyone across departments, teams and floors the opportunity to connect. I like that there is no hierarchal structure; everyone is friendly and approachable whatever their role. I’ve definitely made some lifelong friends here at Appleby.
What advice would you give yourself as a graduate considering the experience you have now?
Relax… everything will be fine.
A little more about Laura
Education
Queen’s University Belfast (LLB Law),
Liverpool John Moores University (Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice),
SQE2 (Solicitors Qualifying Exam)
What did you want to be when you were 8 years old?
A member of the Riverdance troupe or failing that a lawyer.
Favourite way to relax: Cycling from West Park to Corbière and stopping for lunch in St Aubin along the way
Favourite place to eat in Jersey: Upstairs at Anley Street
Favourite possession: My skillet inspired by Dolly Parton’s Jolene (inscribed with ‘’…please don’t take my pan’’)
About Appleby
Appleby is a leading offshore law firm operating from 10 offices around the world. We advise global public and private companies, financial institutions, and high net worth individuals, working with them and their advisers to achieve practical solutions. Our lawyers advise on the principal areas of corporate, dispute resolution, property, regulatory, and private client and trusts. The Jersey office is one of the longest established legal practices in the Island and our multi-jurisdictional approach to our clients means that you will have plenty of opportunity to work with colleagues across the world on challenging and interesting cases and transactions. We have a health and wellbeing programme, active social committee tasked with organising events throughout the year and a group of colleagues dedicated to promoting corporate and social responsibility.
To apply for our next intake in October 2026 please email JEHR@applebyglobal.com
Rory Pridmore – Trainee Solicitor, Carey Olsen
What made you choose to work for Carey Olsen?
My decision was based on a combination of Carey Olsen’s reputation as a top-tier offshore law firm, a clear pathway for development and growth within the firm and the opportunity to move to Jersey.
What professional training have you done?
I have completed the LPC LLM, and I am currently awaiting my results for SQE 2
What do you do on an average day?
The work is interesting and very varied, ranging from working on crypto regulatory licences to assisting on the launch of funds. As a Trainee Solicitor most of my time is spent producing initial drafts of documents, handling administrative tasks, and communicating with a host of different clients
What is your next step?
Qualifying as an English Solicitor in the Autumn
What advice would you give yourself as a graduate considering the experience you have now?
To work hard and trust the process. The graduate world is difficult, and career paths can take many forms.
A little more about Rory
Age: 24
University attended: University of Bristol
Course: Law
What did you want to be when you were 8 years old? Spiderman
Favourite way to relax: Sea swimming or playing guitar
Favourite place to eat in Jersey: Veranda
Favourite possession: A watch given to me by my Grandad
About Carey Olsen
Carey Olsen is a leading offshore law firm practising the laws of Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Guernsey and Jersey with offices in nine global locations – and we are growing! This brings a range of exciting opportunities in a culture that is dynamic, supportive, and inclusive. We are interested in bright and enthusiastic individuals at all levels of their career who have the drive to reach their full potential and to deliver excellent levels of service to our clients.
If you would like to explore your career prospects to become part of a leading offshore law firm, please get in touch www.careyolsen.com/careers
Arun Prabhakar – Assistant Tax Consultant, KPMG in the Crown Dependencies
What made you choose to work for KPMG?
I knew I wanted to take a more specialist route, which is why I chose tax, and KPMG is simply the best of the Big4 firms when it comes to Jersey tax. Everywhere I walk in town, I spot names of clients we work with; it is a sign of how big our footprint is here.
What really clinched it for me though is the depth of experience in the team. One of our Partners wrote Jersey’s Economic Substance law before joining KPMG: you can’t get better insight than that. What I didn’t know while applying (but would have confirmed my choice) is that KPMG have also allowed me plenty of leeway to pursue automation projects using my prior coding experience, and to boost team efficiency that way. This kind of flexibility is one of the benefits of working in a close-knit team.
What professional training have you done?
I’m just starting the final level of the ACA, which leaves three exams before I become an exam-qualified accountant. Most of my time is spent in the office, but we also head off to college for training blocks to tackle each module in turn
What do you do on an average day?
I start at 9am and have a look through my emails to deal with anything urgent, before making a list of priorities for the day. Then I generally settle into drafting a tax computation, writing a transmittal letter, or researching some point in the Income Tax Law.
Due to the range of clients we serve in Tax, something will generally come in before long that requires my attention, which keeps my day nice and fast-paced. Lunchtime often arrives before I realise (almost always an Alliance meal deal) before I return to my desk and continue working.
What is your next step?
Top of the list is passing my last few professional exams and hitting the required 450 hours of professional work experience. After that, the aim is to develop specific areas of expertise. For instance, I’ve recently taken an interest in the Collective Investment Funds (Jersey) Law 1988 and would like to explore that in more depth.
What advice would you give yourself as a graduate considering the experience you have now?
Don’t overlook the Channel Islands! There is a lot of opportunity here and Jersey offers a genuinely different experience without the hassle of entering work in a big city. In a smaller-scaled environment connections and opportunities come more easily, and my commute is a pleasant 15-minute walk. I can even just about see the beach from one of our meeting rooms.
A little more about Arun
Age: 25
University: University of Cambridge
Course: Philosophy
What did you want to be when you were 8 years old?
An inventor, in the vein of Professor Branestawm
Favourite way to relax:
Playing the piano: I’m an amateur, but it’s still impossible to beat for taking my mind off things.
Favourite place to eat in Jersey:
In all honesty, my own kitchen. I don’t eat out much, but I make a mean ragu.
Favourite possession:
A very nice green and gold fountain pen I bought with an exam prize. It is the kind of thing you are almost afraid to use too often, but you value the possession of one.
Erin Hopwood – Litigation Paralegal
What made you choose to work for Mourant?
Having grown up in Jersey, I have always known Mourant to be one of the most reputable and flourishing offshore law firms. I was aware that Mourant has a deep pool of knowledge that offers great opportunities to young legal professionals. From my initial interview, I was offered the prospect of working in a small team, very closely with experienced Advocates, and knew this would be a supportive and valuable role, and an opportunity to learn at an accelerated pace. My experience since then has affirmed this and I take great satisfaction in my job.
What professional training have you done?
After my undergraduate degree, I studied for my law conversion and then sat and passed my SQE1 and SQE2 (Solicitors Qualification Examination).
What do you do on an average day?
Something I love about my job is that the work is very varied and no two days are the same. It can involve liaising directly with clients on the phone or via email, reviewing evidence, meeting with clients at our office or at the Prison, writing letters of legal advice, conducting legal research and discussing different cases with the Advocates. Sometimes I attend Court too which is always interesting.
What is your next step?
To qualify as an English solicitor next year and broaden my legal knowledge through professional practice.
What advice would you give yourself as a school leaver, considering the experience you have now?
I think it’s essential to put yourself out there, work hard and as cliché as it sounds, believe in yourself. Also, don’t let setbacks knock your confidence and don’t compare yourself to others, everyone is in their own lane. Oh, and don’t forget to have some fun along the way!
A little more about Erin
Education: A levels in English Literature, Psychology, Business studies.
What did you want to be when you were 8 years old? A teacher.
Favourite way to relax: Catching up with my friends or going on holiday.
Favourite possession: My coffee machine!
Joel Evans – Litigation Trainee
What made you choose to work for Mourant?
A combination of fantastic work, great workplace culture, and the opportunity to receive excellent training in a supportive and friendly environment. I’m grateful to work alongside some of the leading lawyers in their respective fields, in what are sometimes precedent defining matters. The opportunity to get involved is somewhat of a privilege, as is the responsibility given to me by my colleagues.
What professional training have you done?
I have recently completed the SQE1 (the standardised assessment for candidates seeking to qualify as a solicitor of England and Wales) and I will be undertaking SQE2 later on in the year. Before joining Mourant, I qualified as a commercial mediator whilst undertaking a number of other qualifications in the field of alternative dispute resolution.
What do you do on an average day?
I am fortunate that my work is varied, which makes it rather enjoyable. In law, two days are rarely the same, and, in my view, that makes for quite an exciting workplace. That said, a typical day might include client meetings, conducting research, drafting correspondence between various parties and attending court which is always very exciting. One aspect of the role that I particularly enjoy includes undertaking research tasks that relate to novel or potentially unexplored areas of the law. It is easy to get lost in such tasks, but it is always very satisfying when an answer is found!
What is your next step?
To hopefully qualify as a solicitor in the not-so-distant future!
What advice would you give yourself as a school leaver, considering the experience you have now?
Don’t be afraid to explore your own interests in pursuit of your career and, although difficult, always try and keep an open mind! Finally, seek mentors and don’t be afraid to reach out to people. I’ve had the opportunity of receiving guidance from a number of individuals which I would not have received if I hadn’t reached out in the first place!
A little more about Joel
What did you want to be when you were 8 years old? A palaeontologist, which was an idea no doubt influenced by me having watched the iconic ‘Walking with Dinosaurs’ documentary produced by the BBC in 1999. A trip to the Natural History Museum in London would have also been a contributing factor!
Favourite way to relax: Running along the beach on a warm summer’s day. I also enjoy running along the many trails Jersey has to offer. Whilst I am still very much a beginner in this regard, I have come a long way since my first run along the North coast, which may or may not have involved a rather elaborate faceplant.
Favourite possession: Whilst not a possession as such, my two mini dachshunds are pretty high up on the priority list!
Kelly Camacho – Trainee Administrator, Mourant Governance Services
What made you choose to work for Mourant?
Before applying I had no experience in finance and was curious by the role and job description offered. Quickly after my first interview, I knew I wanted to join Mourant. The approachability and professionalism from both the interviewers stood out to me. Despite how nervous I was, it was ultimately just a comfortable conversation. Mourant also offered appealing career path opportunities that would fit my personal timeline of progression. Another reason for choosing Mourant was the teamwork atmosphere. I quickly realised the values my team stood by matched my own and they would always be there for me (not just as a colleague but as a friend) to support my interests and choices.
What professional training have you done?
I enrolled into my first Level 4 CGI exam this year and have sat my first exam recently. I am eager to proceed with my professional qualifications which will allow me to continue my learning and development while going hand-in-hand with my everyday job.
What do you do on an average day?
In the Private Equity team, we administer corporate stacks incorporated under fund partnerships for targets over various sectors. As part of my average day, we closely follow the deal status of our entities. This includes new incorporations, preparing due diligence packs and ancillary documents following this. In terms of transactions, I prepare payment packs via the applicable banking platforms and closely record board meetings in our systems (as Secretary). We also arrange JFSC filings for any required changes and work closely with other teams (compliance, accounts, legal and operations) both in Jersey and with my colleagues in Hong Kong and London, our intermediaries and with the client.
What is your next step?
My day-to-day goal in work is to continue with more client related tasks, to develop in my role and continue my learning, whilst assisting my team. A personal goal is to proceed with my professional qualifications with CGI and complete my Level 4 certificate, so I can keep progressing onto my Level 5 certificate in the future.
What advice would you give yourself as a school leaver, considering the experience you have now?
My advice would be to let change happen and don’t be afraid to ask questions in pursuing your financial career. As a school leaver, knowing nothing about finance, I made sure to do what was best for me. The finance industry offers so many career opportunities for young people in Jersey. I would advise any school leaver, considering finance, to research what sector in finance they are interested in. Whether it is real estate or private client wealth etc. Find your interest and input that into your average day. This will make sure you feel fulfilled and eager to learn in your job.
A little more about Kelly
Education: I attended Le Rocquier Secondary school and Hautlieu at A-Levels. My subject interests at A-Level were Business, Psychology and Art. I took a mix of creative and essay-based subjects in order to have some workload balance at school. This allowed me to focus on each subject in a different capacity as some were more content heavy and some were coursework heavy.
What did you want to be when you were 8 years old?
From a young age, I was always interested in becoming a lawyer. I was exposed to this idea through seeing it on TV, with the glamourous courtrooms, but I later realised that the real world of law is quite different. I still have the passion for problem-solving and intellectual challenge however realised being a lawyer wasn’t the best fit for me.
Favourite way to relax?
It may not seem relaxing to some, but I think going to the gym always relaxes me as does a stroll near the beach. It allows me to focus and be in the present moment. I also enjoy pampering myself, as I feel this also brings me peace of mind.
Léonore Brun-Cosme-Bruny – Manager, Advisory – PwC Channel Islands
What made you choose to work for PwC?
I wanted to work for an organisation that had a strong brand and would provide me with the development and growth opportunities that would support my career growth. Working at PwC means I get to work with very talented people, enabling me to learn from the best in the business. The range of opportunities available means there is always something new to learn. I joined the firm in a split role, doing Advisory and Audit so my tasks were varied and gave me a chance to understand what motivated me the most.
What professional training have you done?
After joining the split scheme role, I began my ACCA qualification straight away and successfully completed it in 2023. Balancing accounting work with professional exams gave me a much deeper insight into the industry. PwC provided strong support throughout the qualification process, including study leave, which allowed me to stay focused on my learning and career development.
What do you do on an average day?
I have now fully transitioned to Advisory and I work on a global technology project which means that on an average day, I could be on a call to people in various countries all around the world explaining specific functionality to them so they can understand how it meets their requirements. In my new role as a Manager, I am also responsible for coaching and providing support to more junior team members.
What is your next step?
As I have just been promoted to Manager, my next step will be consolidating my experience over the next 12 months to really make an impact in my new role. Once this project ends, I would like to use the skills and experience I have gained and apply this to a new project and continue to keep learning.
What advice would you give yourself as a graduate considering the experience you have now?
Looking back, I would say take every opportunity that comes your way as you never know what it might lead to. And don’t be afraid to do something different than your peers.
A little more about Leonore
Age: 28
Education: Siena College, New York
Course: Bachelor of Science – Accounting
What did you want to be when you were 8 years old? A pilot
Favourite way to relax: Going for a sea swim
Favourite place to eat in Jersey: Awabi
Favourite possession: My skis
About PwC
How would you like to join the number one graduate employer, as ranked by The Times Top 100 Graduate Employer Survey in 2023 and 2024? Here at PwC, we unite expertise and technology so our clients can outthink, outpace and outperform in their industry. Our people are at the heart of delivering this service promise and bring to life our brand code – we are bold, optimistic and collaborative. Explore our range of school-leaver, graduate and other trainee opportunities across our Assurance, Advisory and Tax lines of service right here in Jersey. Grow both your skills and experience with PwC and go further in your career.
37 Esplanade, St Helier, Jersey, Channel Islands JE1 4XA
www.pwc.com/jg/en/careers.html
Hollie Carter – Fund Administrator , Saltgate Limited
What made you choose to work for Saltgate?
Whilst I was studying my university course, I was still unsure what I wanted to do as a career when I graduated as I hadn’t done much work experience before. I saw an advert for the Saltgate internship programme which I applied for back in 2022 and worked in the real estate team during the summer break. What stood out to me was the environment at Saltgate, through interacting with employees who were kind, helpful and there was a great culture for a young person to grow and thrive in. I was also able to experience the world of work and what a typical day would look like. Upon completion of the internship and graduating from university, I was offered a full-time job as a Trainee Fund Administrator. The work-life balance which Saltgate offers also stood out to me as we have the option to work from home up to two days a week and to take up to two hours of flexi each week.
What professional training have you done?
Post university, I wanted to progress both personally and professionally, so I have recently begun my professional qualifications, and I am studying towards the Chartered Governance Qualifying Programme (previously known as ICSA). I took my first exam last month and I am looking forward to receiving my results in August. Saltgate also encourages continuous professional development (CPD) through offering various training and courses to develop employee’s knowledge and skills.
What do you do on an average day?
Each day in the office is very different and we get a variety of requests. A typical day for me will include setting up payments, drafting minutes, communicating with clients, and preparing for/running board meetings.
What is your next step?
I am currently focussing on completing my professional qualifications to expand my knowledge and skills set to help me progress within my current job role, as well as in the future.
What advice would you give yourself as a graduate considering the experience you have now?
Working a full-time job role in the finance industry is completely different to the experience you have at school or university. However, it is important to take every opportunity which comes your way if you can and just enjoy the experience. I was always worried that I had to have everything figured out, but if you don’t enjoy something, it’s not the end of the world! You have a long-time to figure out what you want to be doing.
A little more about Hollie
Age: 23
University attended: Bath Spa University
Course: BA (Hons) Business and Management
What did you want to be when you were 8 years old? I would change my mind all the time but probably a gymnast or ballerina.
Favourite way to relax: Meeting friends or going for a walk along St Ouens beach
Favourite place to eat in Jersey: Pizza Express
Favourite possession: My car
About Saltgate
Saltgate launched in 2007 to provide fund administration and accounting services for private equity, debt, and real estate asset classes. With offices in Jersey, Luxembourg, and London, its 200-strong team manages around US$100bn of assets under administration. As a people-first organisation, Saltgate aims to attract the best people and help them develop so they can deliver exceptional client services. Saltgate embraces diversity and has a culture of openness, which is reflected in its core values – engagement, partnership, integrity, and commitment. Whether you’re a client or a colleague, Saltgate will partner with you to make sure you achieve your best
Saltgate Group, 27 Esplanade, St Helier 01534 850750
opportunities@saltgate.com
