International arbitration in London: Perspective from next-gen leaders
What do you see as the biggest challenges for practitioners looking to establish themselves in the field of arbitration??
Conway Blake: Lack of accessibility and increased competition are the biggest challenges. It has become more difficult for practitioners looking to establish themselves as international arbitration has become a more popular career choice. The field is now truly global, and the sheer number of qualified students and junior lawyers looking to practice arbitration means that it is now harder than it has ever been. It is particularly difficult for junior lawyers to distinguish themselves from the crowd, and it is now more crucial than ever that they can obtain relevant formative professional experiences, demonstrate mastery of core skills and disciplines and develop their professional networks.?
Diverse practitioners continue to face a unique set of challenges. Although diversity has certainly improved, the appointment of inclusive and diverse arbitrators and counsel from non-traditional backgrounds remains sub-optimal. The international community will also need to take a decisive stand as anti-DEI sentiments continue to develop in certain quarters.?
Matthew Hodgson: Arbitration is a popular area of practice and the competition for newly qualified lawyer spots is often fierce. But as it has become the default choice for international dispute settlement there are far more jobs and in a far wider range of firms than when I started my career. Having a clear idea of why you want to work in this area, what unique skills and attributes you bring, and – if need be – sheer persistence are key to breaking in. In your early years of practice, learning quickly on the job and delivering first rate work is the best way to get ahead: Make yourself the brilliant junior that seniors want to work with. But also keep in mind that over your long-term career your peers in the arbitral community are just as important, whether as a source of information (comparing notes on arbitrators, experts etc.), or helping each other with speaking opportunities and referrals. So, make sure you invest in those relationships.?
Shivani Sanghi: International arbitration is a competitive field, with reputation and being recognized for a certain specialization or niche expertise often being the key to success. A challenge faced by practitioners looking to establish themselves is how to stand out and develop a profile in a field crowded with many talented and already well-established practitioners. Developing your own brand, geographical or sector focus, and global network can take time, but it is often essential for long-term success. In terms of promoting diversity and equality, positive support from initiatives like the ERA Pledge, and networks like Arbitral Women, Mute Off Thursdays and the more niche Indian Women in International Arbitration (that I am on the Steering Committee member for) goes a long way.?