Some of the most important people in a busy law firm are not always the ones you see at the front of a transaction.

Behind every client matter is a team keeping things moving, managing processes, supporting our solicitors and making sure the right systems are in place. Within the Real Estate, Commercial & Corporate team at Vyman Solicitors, Julie is very much one of those people.

With more than 26 years’ experience in the legal sector, Julie has seen both the profession and her own role change considerably. Today, as Executive Assistant, she provides high-level support across a busy department advising businesses, investors, developers and individuals.

26 Years in the Legal Sector

Julie’s career began in a traditional legal secretarial role, giving her an invaluable understanding of what it takes to keep a busy legal practice running effectively.

As Vyman and the department have grown, particularly under Sheetal Badiani’s leadership, Julie’s role has evolved too.

“My responsibilities have gradually moved away from the traditional day-to-day secretarial function and towards a broader Executive Assistant role, providing support across the department and contributing to the wider operations of the firm.”

Today, Julie is increasingly involved in the development and organisation of the department. This includes helping establish new systems and processes, supporting and delivering training to colleagues across the firm and helping ensure the infrastructure behind the team develops as the department grows.

Keeping a Busy Legal Team Moving

There is rarely a typical day for Julie.

The Real Estate, Commercial & Corporate team handles a broad range of matters, often with multiple transactions and deadlines progressing simultaneously.

Julie coordinates the onboarding of new matters, helps fee earners follow established processes and supports Sheetal and the wider team with a range of commercial and operational requirements.

She particularly enjoys the opportunity to improve the way things are done.

“I value being involved in improving processes, supporting the team and helping the department and wider teams operate effectively.”

It reflects something central to the way we work at Vyman: success is a team game.

Excellent client service is not simply about the lawyer advising on a matter. It relies on a wider team being reliable, proactive, attentive and supportive behind the scenes – qualities Julie demonstrates every day.

Growing Alongside Vyman

One of the most rewarding aspects of Julie’s career has been the opportunity to develop alongside the firm.

Rather than remaining within the traditional boundaries of her original role, she has taken on broader responsibilities and found new ways to contribute across the department and wider business.

But when Julie talks about why she enjoys working at Vyman, one thing stands out: the people.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is feeling valued and appreciated by the team. The positive relationships I have developed and knowing that my contribution is recognised are a significant reason why I enjoy working at Vyman and see myself continuing to develop within my new role.”

That matters to us. Our ambition is to build lasting relationships not only with our clients, but with the people who build their careers here. Creating an environment where people can develop, contribute ideas and grow with the firm is an important part of that.

“Julie Is Part of the Fabric of Our Team”

Sheetal Badiani, Head of Department and Director of Legal Operations at Vyman Solicitors, says:

“Julie is part of the fabric of our team. Over the years, her role has grown alongside the department, but what has never changed is how much we rely on her. She understands our people, our processes and what needs to happen behind the scenes to keep a busy team moving.

“Julie embodies so many of the values we want Vyman to be known for – she is reliable, proactive, supportive and always thinking about how we can do things better. Most importantly, she genuinely cares about the team. We are incredibly fortunate to have her.”

The People Behind Vyman Solicitors

Julie might describe her role as supporting the department, but those who work alongside her would probably put it differently.

She is someone colleagues turn to when something needs organising, a process needs improving or something simply needs getting done.

After more than 26 years in the legal profession, Julie brings experience that cannot be captured by a job title alone. As our Real Estate, Commercial & Corporate team continues to grow, she remains an important part of the people and infrastructure behind it.

And when she does eventually switch off from keeping everyone else organised, you’ll most likely find her spending time with family and friends, or settling down with a good book and a glass of wine.

Every strong legal team needs great people behind the scenes. Julie is undoubtedly one of ours.