Matthew D

Profile:

I have been a lawyer in Akin’s UK tax practice for over 5 years, having previously trained and practiced as an associate at Linklaters LLP. I advise on a full range of corporate tax matters, with a focus on financial restructurings, corporate M&A and investment funds. Before joining Linklaters, I studied Law with German Law at the University of Warwick and the University of Konstanz.

Coming from a working class family in the West Midlands and being the first of my family to go to university, when it came to applying for vacation schemes and training contracts I had very little knowledge of the legal profession or what a career as a solicitor entailed. I was nevertheless fortunate enough to secure a vacation scheme at Hogan Lovells and at Linklaters, followed by a number of training contract offers. I have no doubt, however, that my background put me at a disadvantage compared to some of my peers who had family connections in the law (or at least in the professional sphere) who could offer them invaluable insight and support. This is why I think initiatives such as the Professional Ambassadors Assistance Programme are so important, and why I am keen to provide that insight and support to those who don’t have access to it elsewhere.

As a gay man I also feel very grateful to be at a firm that appreciates the importance of diversity and since joining Akin have been actively involved in diversity efforts, having served as LGBT representative on the London office inclusion council, and now as the Social Mobility representative.

Feel free to get in touch with any questions – I’m more than happy to share my experience and offer any advice and support that I can.

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