As a firm which places Employee Relations (ER) at our heart, we are proud of the amazing team here at esphr. That is why our current employee Q&A seeks to share a little more about each one of our colleagues.

Next up is Senior Solicitor Sarah Bunker, a relative newcomer to the esphr team but a seasoned professional in world of employment law, having been a solicitor for almost three decades. Not only does Sarah really know her stuff, but she also understands business and makes it her mission to advise on what you can do – not just what you can’t do – within the realms of the law.

1. What’s the one thing which marks esphr out as an employer of choice?

The complexity of work combined with an innovative delivery model.

2. What would you say if you were to explain what esphr does to an alien?

We support businesses with often complex queries about how to manage their staff in a way which complies with employment law but is pragmatic and solutions-driven.

3. If you could give anyone an internal award, who would it be and what would it be for?

Charlotte Ashton… she has a wonderfully refreshing approach, and she makes me laugh!

4. What is your funniest memory of someone in the team?

Having only been here for three months, we’re still making memories!

5. What keeps the job interesting for you?

Having worked on my own for so long, having a wonderful and supportive team around me keeps the job interesting.

6. If you hadn’t chosen/gone into the career you’re in, what other profession would you be in?

Rather boringly, I have wanted to be a solicitor since the age of 13, so I have absolutely no idea.

7. Where do you see esphr in five years’ time?

Probably changed beyond all recognition… the exciting plans for the integration with CLM being the first step on what I am sure will be an amazing journey for all of us.

8. A little-known fact about you?

I was on a cruise down the River Nile, visiting Luxor when the Twin Towers were attacked; scary times!

9. If we went into lockdown again, who would you like to be locked down with and why?

I would prefer not to even have to think about being locked down again!

10. Which five celebrities (dead or alive) would you invite to a dinner party?

Dame Margot Fonteyn (Prima Ballerina) – I loved ballet as a child and was presented with an award by Dame Margot when I was at school (not for ballet, I hasten to add!)

Roger Federer – I enjoy watching tennis and I think presents himself so well – cool and oh so sophisticated.

Sebastian Coe – I met him unexpectedly when he turned up at my dad’s house when I was about 13. I didn’t respond very maturely, and I’d like to correct his impression of me!

Dan Walker – because I think he’s lovely!

John F Kennedy – the continuing curse of the Kennedys has always fascinated me.