ARTICLE
Gary Shaw
Getting to know Southey & Co An interview with Key Account Director, Gary Shaw 1. Can you tell us about your background and experience in the field of property law and private client services? What drew you to join Southey & Co? I have dedicated the past 3 years of my career to specialising in the legal services industry, I honed my skills at a reputable probate lender who were first to market and a market leader. During my time there I had the privilege of handling a diverse range of cases, from complex transaction to intricate estate planning matters. Prior to this, and for my sins, I spent around 15 years as a corporate bank manager where my experience extended to the property sector, dealing with and financing commercial, residential and retail properties. After getting to know the leadership team at Southey and Co, as a client, it was obvious that the that they have a sterling reputation and that their track record of delivering exceptional legal services to the private client sector is unparalleled. The depth of expertise and the commitment to client-centric solutions aligns seamlessly with my own professional values. 2. Could you describe the unique aspects or specialised services that this property company offers to private client solicitors? Absolutely, Southey and Co distinguishes itself in several key areas that make it a prime choice for private client solicitors seeking specialised services in the field of probate property. It has been simply described by some clients as a ‘wrap around service’ for all things probate property related. In short, Southey and Co offer bespoke solutions to solicitors who are managing an estate where the main asset is the property. For me there are 22 | SURREYLAWYER
4 keys points of the property management stage – Insurance, Valuation, Maintenance and Sale. These specialised services, combined with unwavering commitment to excellence, set Southey and Co apart as a leading choice for private client solicitors. 3. What are your primary responsibilities and goals in your new role here? How do they align with the company's mission and vision? In my new role here at Southey and Co, my primary responsibilities revolve around providing top-tier legal support to the private client sector. Moreover, I am committed to ensuring that each client receives personalised attention, tailored solutions and the highest level of attention given that we are dealing (in many instances) with the main asset in the estate. These responsibilities directly align with Southey and Co’s mission and vision. By providing specialised expertise in dealing with probate property, I contribute to the firm’s reputation for excellence and its dedication to meeting the unique needs of each client. 4. In your opinion, what are some emerging trends or challenges that private client solicitors should be aware of in today's market? In the realm of Probate property there are many emerging trends and challenges that are shaping today’s market. However, no two probate matters are ever the same. The biggest challenges I come across relate to the length of the probate process, and the fluctuating property market conditions due to external economic factors.
