Jenny Coombes

Title: Associate 
Division: EU and competition
Location: Brussels

I studied Philosophy, Politics and Economics and worked for a charity and in politics before deciding to retrain as a solicitor and joined Herbert Smith as a trainee in 2004.

I chose Herbert Smith because I wanted to work for a big law firm, but a firm that had its own character. I knew I was interested in litigation and competition and Herbert Smith has a strong reputation in both.  After the interview, I knew it was right for me and was overjoyed when I was offered a job.

Brussels is an international city at the heart of Europe and our work here reflects this. We work for international companies who compete in markets worldwide. Large transactions almost always involve coordinating filings across a number of jurisdictions, working with our network of "best friend" firms. 

In Brussels we reap all the benefits of working for a large firm in terms of quality work combined with the personal atmosphere that comes with a smaller office. For me, one of the most rewarding things about working here is having the opportunity to work with a group of people whose skills and knowledge I genuinely admire. Everyone is willing to take time out to discuss issues and share know-how and, even as a relatively junior lawyer, I feel that my viewpoint is valued.