Kennedy Brown
BSc (Hons) Human Resource Management
Acting Training Events Specialist
Describe your job role?
“I oversee the end-to-end logistical management of training programmes globally for both fee-earners and business teams. This includes liaising with external trainers, audio visual, global HR colleagues, catering, and budget management, as well as on-site support for in-person events.”
How did Ulster University help prepare you for your career at A&O Shearman?
“Ulster University really helped set me up for my career at A&O Shearman by equipping me with strong organisational, communication, and project management skills—skills I use every day. The practical learning environment and emphasis on teamwork built my confidence in coordinating and managing complex events and working collaboratively across different departments. I also got great exposure to real-world scenarios and professional development opportunities, which prepared me well for managing high-volume training programmes and delivering excellent support to global teams. What’s made a real difference is how Ulster encouraged adaptability and problem-solving—both of which are essential in a fast-paced corporate setting, where responsiveness and attention to detail are essential.”
How has A&O Shearman supported your career development?
“A&O Shearman has played a big part in shaping my career so far. I had an amazing placement experience with the firm, joining the Training Events team in Belfast. Their mentorship shaped my professional development and inspired me. I was trusted to manage scheduling, liaison with facilitators, and setting-up at events. I supported onsite training programmes across offices which helped me appreciate how events operate in various locations. In my current role, I’ve taken ownership of global training programmes, building strong coordination and stakeholder management skills. I’ve gained confidence, learned to trust my instincts when managing complex logistics, and know that I can adapt quickly to changing needs. The supportive culture and collaborative environment have empowered me to take the initiative and keep improving. Just three months after graduating, I’ve been offered a secondment with the Training Events team in our London office, an opportunity to grow my expertise further.”
Thinking ahead to the next 12 months, what are you most excited about in your career development?
"I’m really looking forward to my secondment in our London office. It’s a great opportunity to deepen my knowledge, take on new challenges, and play a bigger role in delivering high impact training programmes across the firm. I’m excited to grow, learn, and contribute within a new environment."
Ewan Glenny
BSc (Hons) Human Resource Management
Human Resource Assistant
Describe your job role?
"I work within the HR Advice team in A&O Shearman, maintaining accurate employee records and ensuring compliance. I administer key processes including secondments and global leavers, along with pay and contract updates. As a central contact for HR queries, I resolve various ad hoc queries daily making each day different."
How did Ulster University help prepare you for your career at A&O Shearman?
"In Ulster University, there were excellent discussions about how the materials we covered in modules applied to workplace scenarios. Looking back now, I can see that the conversations went beyond connecting theory to practice — they encouraged a mindset of curiosity, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
I learned to approach challenges from different perspectives and use research and evidence to make informed decisions. Group assignments required us to conduct individual research and then collaborate to produce a cohesive report or presentation. In my current role within HR Advice, I apply this same approach. I manage individual processes such as leavers independently, ensuring accuracy and timeliness. However, our service delivery is team-based, and when working on my own tasks, I represent the wider HR Advice team. This means maintaining consistency, professionalism, and a shared commitment to high-quality service."
How has A&O Shearman supported your career development?
"Both my placement year and my current role at A&O Shearman have built on the foundation I got at Ulster by providing opportunities for professional development and career progression. Through regular feedback, training sessions, and support from my line managers, I’ve been encouraged to take the initiative, and develop my skills. For example, I have been encouraged to use my IT abilities to automate processes within HR Advice. The combination of academic grounding from Ulster University and ongoing professional support and encouragement have been invaluable to my growth and confidence. It has made taking the next step up the career ladder feel more achievable."
Thinking ahead to the next 12 months, what are you most excited about in your career development?
"I am excited to gain more exposure within global HR. As someone with wanderlust, working for a global firm with opportunities worldwide, it is inspiring to see where my degree and experience can take me! I’m keen to build my professional portfolio and take the next step in my career."
Keaton Hamilton
BSc (Hons) Leading Customer Operations
Senior Working Capital Assistant
Describe your job role?
“I’m part of the working capital team in A&O Shearman’s finance department. I handle invoicing, collections, cash allocation, and lead on all aspects of working capital training for teams. I work closely with partners, PAs, and our working capital controller to keep accounts accurate and ensure timely financial updates.”
How did Ulster University help prepare you for your career at A&O Shearman?
“Ulster University played a pivotal role in shaping my professional journey. It provided me with a solid foundation in leadership theory and organisational behaviour, which has proven invaluable at A&O Shearman. Through my studies, I gained a deep understanding of how leadership functions within organisations, and how management styles can impact team dynamics and decision-making. I’ve applied this learning in the workplace by helping provide a collaborative and supportive environment, which has helped boost team morale and engagement. By recognising individual strengths and encouraging open communication, I’ve been able to positively influence my team and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement. This approach has not only enhanced productivity but also strengthened relationships across departments. Ulster's emphasis on practical application and critical thinking gave me the confidence to lead by example and support others in navigating challenges - skills that continue to shape my development within the firm."
How has A&O Shearman supported your career development?
“I began my journey at A&O Shearman as a higher-level apprentice, and the firm has been instrumental in shaping my career ever since. The firm supported me through my degree while giving me hands-on experience in a fast-paced, professional environment. Alongside my academic studies, I received extensive in-house training that helped me understand the practical side of working capital and finance operations. One of the most valuable parts of my training was the opportunity to work across multiple departments, giving me a broader view of how the business operates. Regular feedback sessions helped me reflect, grow, discuss challenges, and identify growth opportunities. The support from colleagues has been constant, both during busy periods and when stepping into new responsibilities. A&O Shearman has given me the tools and encouragement to build a meaningful and rewarding career.”
Thinking ahead to the next 12 months, what are you most excited about in your career development?
"In the year ahead, I’m focused on stepping into a leadership role within the team. I was the first in my family to graduate and I want to make a meaningful impact. I’m ready to take on more responsibility, embrace new challenges, and continue advancing my career."
Recruit placement and graduate talent
Partner with Ulster University to infuse your business with fresh thinking and emerging talent who bring new skills, boost innovation, and drive your growth from day one. Hiring Ulster placement students and graduates means gaining motivated, work-ready individuals ready to make an immediate impact on your team.
