Andrew Sawkins “fell into” his legal career and has never looked back. From starting at Ligeti Partners as a Law Clerk, to becoming the Firm’s Managing Director, we take a look at Andrew’s incredible career.
What led you to have a career in Law?
I basically “fell into” law. Unlike some lawyers, I did not have a “burning desire to be a lawyer from when I could walk”. Whilst I had an interest, and was told I had certain beneficial character traits, on applying for Law at University, I did not think I would be accepted. I was, and have not looked back since.
I consider myself very fortunate in that I have loved every step of my 40 year plus legal journey with absolutely no regrets. This is in no small measure contributed to by the wonderful people I have worked with over the years, my supportive family and the opportunities and mentorship afforded me by Tom Ligeti.
What drew you to the insurance industry?
Again, I fell into it. When I started practicing, no one graduated with the single desire of becoming an insurance specialist. Most private practice was general in nature. One of the areas in my practice was insurance, which I enjoyed. On emigrating to Australia, my first interview was with Tom Ligeti, who offered me a job in insurance.
The rest is history.
What has your career at Ligeti Partners looked like?
I studied, was admitted as a lawyer, and was a partner in a law firm in South Africa. On emigrating in 1997, I joined Tom Ligeti as a Law Clerk, whilst I converted my qualifications at Melbourne Uni. My “buddy” was my now long term business partner and friend, Paul Singam.
I was admitted in Australia in 1998, became an Associate, Senior Associate, Principal in 2002 and Managing Director around 2013.
What was your most significant professional accomplishment to date?
Becoming Managing Director of Ligeti Partners and being the “manager”, for a period of time, of the firm and its people, something I took very seriously.
What advice would you give to those entering the legal industry?
From a personal perspective – Being a litigation lawyer in private practice is hard. Long hours, demanding and stressful. It takes time to build your career. You need to be robust. Most importantly, you need to enjoy your job. If you don’t, its unlikely to get better, so change roles. Life and your career are too short and the job is too stressful not to be true to yourself. That doesn’t mean you won’t be great in another area.
From a professional perspective, remember your first duty is always to the Court. Treat everyone – colleagues, clients and opponents, courteously and as you would want to be treated. Work hard. If you commit and put in, you can have a very rewarding career.
What is the best advice you would give to a learning leader?
Set the example. You can’t ask others to do something if you won’t. Surround yourself with good people. Appreciate everyone (including yourself) has strengths and weaknesses. Embrace both.
