Name: Ingrid York
Position: Partner
Firm: White & Case
In Hot 100 for: Becoming head of White & Case’s derivatives and structured finance group, taking the lead on a novel, precedent-setting matters. Read her full Hot 100 profile.
What’s your most vivid memory from being a trainee?
Reading template contracts and text books for days on end before I was let near any actual work.
Who has been the most influential person in your career? Why, and how have they helped you?
I have been lucky to have worked with a few people who have profoundly influenced my career, both in-house at Deutsche Bank and also afterwards in private practice at White & Case.
They have all taught me the value of hard work and dedication as well as good humour. They have generously given me amazing experiences and furthered my career at every opportunity. I am extremely grateful for their support and attention.
What was the best career decision you ever made, and why?
I decided to stay in Germany after my exchange year there in 2000 and was fortunate to work for five years at Deutsche Bank in Frankfurt. This decision changed my life and my career.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to get to where you are/do the job you do?
You need to be passionate about your job. Put your heart and soul into every task, however large or small. Do not be afraid to fail trying.
What work or career-related project or activity would you really like to do, but don’t have time for?
I always want to do more pro bono legal work, as I think it is so important to use your knowledge and resources to support others in a tangible way.
