Most solicitors have to wait the best part of a decade to become a partner. Indeed, in these difficult economic times, many wait even longer. But one 27-year old bucked this trend last week to make partner just a year after he finished his training contract…
So what’s the secret of the incredible rise of Cardiff University graduate Adam Ramlugon?
Well, the first point to note is that Ramlugon’s firm, boutique outfit Bargate Murray, is no Clifford Chance. Indeed, until Ramlugon’s promotion Bargate Murray boasted only two partners, founder Quentin Bargate and Andrew Murray.
But then the firm is also not that small, employing another five fee-earners — two associates, two trainees and a paralegal — alongside three support staff. And it has got a decent reputation built on the back of Bargate’s 14 years as a partner at Simmons & Simmons.
This is what Bargate had to say when we contacted him about one of the youngest City partner promotions in recent history:
“As a boutique we are able to look more creatively and promote on ability rather than time served. Adam is very able and his promotion is a reflection of his ability and the experience he gained during his training contract under me. We are hoping that he is the first of other young appointments.”
It’s also worth noting that Ramlugon’s promotion may not carry significant additional riches, or liabilities. When asked whether Ramlugon had been granted a share of the equity of the firm, Bargate told us: “These matters we don’t discuss publicly.”
So Ramlugon could, in theory, have simply been given an impressive-sounding job title to reward his efforts — or perhaps fend off interest from a larger firm — without getting much of a pay rise.
Still, it’s an interesting move — and, whatever the details, quite an achievement for a 27 year-old.
