Adele Critchley

Biotechnology Specialist

“You will definitely satisfy your appetite for hard work but you have to be resourceful to carve out time to have buckets of fun outside work - which I certainly did. It's no secret that everyone here works extremely hard and we always took pride in the work product, but without losing our sense of fun at the appropriate time.”

 

How has your work and experience at SY helped in your current position?

Working at SY was challenging, and really tested whether I was capable of successfully transitioning from science to the Intellectual Property Law field. Being immersed in a highly successful and competitive firm, I was able to develop many useful skills, including the ability to work on simultaneous projects with extremely tight deadlines whilst sustaining an output of high-quality work. I cannot be more satisfied with the toolset and knowledge I gained from working at SY.

Further, SY often held guest speakers on the particulars of other jurisdictions (specifically, Europe and the U.S.), to ensure we kept abreast on all industry standards and changes, enabling us to develop the skills needed to attain professional goals. My experience at SY definitely allowed me to hit the ground running in my current employment position.

What was the most difficult aspect of adjusting to work in Japan?

Acclimatizing to the very fast pace and different work culture. Even though I came from a rigorous graduate program which helped in coping with the pressure; I had to adjust rapidly and quickly to a different way of writing, thinking and lifestyle outside the Firm. It'll be tough-going at first as the Firm has an intense and disciplined professional environment but once you're onboard with how and why things are done, you'll be fine.

How did you cope with the stresses of working and living in Japan?

I did not know anyone prior to my move to Japan but that did not last long as I made some friends at work and outside work. I truly cherished the relationships that I've made in Osaka and that was the paramount way to ease oneself to work and live in Japan. Also I went to the gym regularly and had friends and family frequently visiting from the UK. While in Osaka, I even had pets and I brought home my pet cat with me to Manchester and now she's fully adjusted to the English weather.

What has been your fondest experience in Japan?

Hanami. Momiji. Okinawa. Snowboarding in Niseko. Great food. Osaka has a vibrant energy and is perfectly positioned to experience all that Japan has to offer in sightseeing, food, travel and leisure. I was fortunate to have a fantastic circle of friends and we always made sure that we had a lot going on - welcome drinks, socials, parties, unofficial all weekend nighters, onsen trips, summer beach parties, bowling nights and farewell parties. You have to make your own leisure time special.

What was the work like?

I was entrusted with a significant amount of responsibility as soon as I was ready for it. It's really rewarding being able to see a case through from initiation to conclusion, knowing that you've provided the best possible outcome to the client. There will be frustrating moments - nothing's ever perfect. Every single employee is always shown the respect and trust that they deservedly earn and no one can rely on old stale achievements for too long. Focus on ensuring that you learn from your mistakes - everyone makes them - and recovering from them makes you stronger. The work is unmistakably detailed oriented and you have to sweat the small stuff. But if you are naturally careful, it should not be a problem. If you are sloppy or not observant of fine distinctions, you should consider something else.

What did you like most about working in Osaka?

The Firm gave me the opportunity to take on diverse, exceptional and intriguing challenges every single day on behalf of the Firm's clients. That was the most vivid memory of my work and I can't remember a single moment of that I wasn't problem-solving. I found my colleagues to be both extremely motivated and supportive. The Firm's offsite study meetings/excursions and Christmas parties were also great fun.

What advice would you give to entry level recruits?

You will definitely satisfy your appetite for hard work but you have to be resourceful to carve out time to have buckets of fun outside work - which I certainly did. It's no secret that everyone here works extremely hard and we always took pride in the work product, but without losing our sense of fun at the appropriate time.