Her story

Simone is a Co-Founder and Principal at Buchanan Rees Dispute Lawyers.

Without mentioning your job title, how would you describe what it is you do now (whether at home, work, in the community, etc.)?

I protect the interests of individuals and businesses by assisting them to resolve complex legal problems. My role is to guide my clients through uncertainty and risk. Whether it’s high-stakes disputes or critical decisions, I distill the issues, assess the risks and think strategically to offer legal advice and solutions that have a strong commercial focus.

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What are the first three words you think of when you hear the word ‘diversity’?

Inclusion. Representation. Equality.

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What do you think it will take to develop truly diverse thinking within the legal industry?

We need to create space for different voices to be heard and genuinely valued—not just included. That means actively mentoring diverse talent, questioning long-held assumptions about what leadership and success look like, and embracing different perspectives as a strength, not a risk. We also need to see leaders, both male and female, encouraging and supporting flexible work practices particularly in practice areas that are male dominated.

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What was your main driver to enter the legal industry?

I did not have a really strong desire to be a practising solicitor. I wanted to study law because the law is central to our society and I wanted to be involved with something that touches on all aspects of people’s lives. The choice at the time was between law and medicine and I don’t like blood!

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