Alice Dixie, our very own Head of Legal, has recently been nominated for the DiversityQ Legal Adviser of the Year award. We sat down with her to chat about the role – what it involves, how she got started, and what advice she’d give to anyone looking to follow in her footsteps.
Firstly, how did you get to where you are now?
I worked for the first 10 or so years of my career in a law firm advising clients (usually private equity backed) who were looking to buy or sell a company.
I enjoyed the work, however, once I became a mum, found it wasn’t very flexible, so decided to move in house.
It’s always been the case that I’ve enjoyed the aspect of my role that involved understanding the operation of a business and helping it achieve its strategy. The move to provide legal support from inside a company meant that I could develop a much deeper understanding of this.
I’ve now worked as Head of Legal in three different roles and have experience of a diverse range of industries (including travel operating, cruising, insurance, motoring, veterinary and a retirement platform). I’ve been offered some amazing opportunities (which I’ve grabbed with both hands!) and every turn has offered the chance to grow and expand my knowledge.
What drew you to the James Hay role?
Companies with an ambitious growth strategy are my sweet spot; I enjoy a fast-paced environment where I can use my knowledge and experience to the best effect.
When I came onboard, Epiris had just acquired James Hay and was looking to bolster the legal department and to replace the Company Secretary (as my predecessor was retiring).
I was introduced to James Hay’s HR Director by a friend of mine and had meetings and calls with the then CFO, CEO and Chair. Listening to their plans for the James Hay Group, I thought “This looks like good opportunity – a business that wants to grow.” I wasn’t wrong – it’s been a whirlwind! My first three years have passed in what seems like the blink of an eye.
There have been plenty of challenges to sink my teeth into. Shortly after I joined James Hay, we entered a long-term strategic partnership with our outsource provider, FNZ. The following month, James Hay agreed to buy Nucleus. The following year we were bought by our new private equity backers, HPS, and now we’re waiting for regulatory approval for the possible acquisition of Curtis Banks.
Our management team certainly do not let the grass grow under their feet! It has been a great time to work for Nucleus, especially with the vast array of talent within the business (both home-grown and incoming through new hires).
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I enjoy the diversity of the different types of work and the strategic projects. I don’t always end up doing what I have planned to do in the day – the business is fast moving and I love the challenge this presents.
By working in house you do the most obscure things. Happily, Nucleus is a safe place to explore this. I feel comfortable saying “I haven’t done this before, but I’m willing to give it a go”.
Last year I worked with one of the directors to set up the Nucleus Foundation, a charity that aims to improve wellbeing, education and diversity in the financial services sector. I had never done this before so it was hugely satisfying when, after a number of months of toing and froing, the email landed from the Charity Commission approving the registration of the charity. I also love the opportunity my involvement with the charity presents to give something back.
Does this challenge ever become overwhelming?
No, because I have a great team to back me up and work with some great external lawyers.
I always try and keep as much as possible, but I have a relatively small team and so it’s essential to identify quickly if support from our external lawyers is required. It’s also about knowing when to play in the best person for the job from my team, and accepting that delegation is sometimes the best option (especially where I have no capacity to take on something personally).
I’m lucky to have a very talented team who bring a diverse skillset to the table. For example, we have a specialist pensions lawyer, an ex-property lawyer, and various team members with a platforms background. Put us all together and I’d back my team to resolve most legal problems that the business might face!
What is one of your favourite things about working for Nucleus?
Nucleus is a fantastic organisation for developing people and bringing them forward in their careers. I know I couldn’t deliver all the legal support the business requires without my team and I love working to develop and grow them in their roles. I always do my utmost to ensure that, while delivering results, my team have fun and enjoy the time they spend at work.
And finally, what’s your advice to anyone hoping to build a good career?
My career strategy has been to take opportunities as they come along. I’ve found that if I constantly make myself helpful and available, opportunities for growth always appear. It’s all about being open to learning, and constantly looking for chances to develop your legal as well as soft skills.
I would recommend a career in law to anyone with drive, determination and strong problem-solving abilities – sometimes with issues you never thought you’d come across!
