As business manager at Gordon Brown Law Firm LLP (GBLF), Louise Woodhead is responsible for the firm's financial activity, working with the wider team to support the business through day-to-day activity and strategic growth. Outside of the office, Louise is a keen runner with several races and two Great North Runs under her belt.
What is your passion outside of work, how did you get into it and why do you enjoy it so much?
I love exercise, particularly running. I began running after having my children as it is easy to juggle around family life and you are not restricted to any set times. I have participated in several 10K runs and completed the Great North Run twice, which I am doing again this year. I enjoy running as it is peaceful, I get to see some lovely countryside and it gives me time to myself!
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Kind, resilient and honest.
What would your autobiography be called?
Nailing the daily 10,000 step challenge, I’m a bit too focused on the number of steps I do each day!
What do you look forward to most at the end of the week?
Spending time with my family, taking part in a weekly Park Run with my son, gardening and a glass or two of wine on a Saturday night.
If you could have dinner with anyone dead or alive, who would it be, and why?
David Attenborough, as it would be fascinating to hear about his globetrotting adventures and his thoughts on the future of our earth.
What is the best book you’ve ever read, and why?
I’ve just started reading the Harry Potter books again with my kids and they are still just as good the second time around.
If you could have one superpower what would it be, and why?
Time travel, to experience history and see what the future holds.
What was your dream job as a child?
I always wanted to be a vet and work with animals.
What is your greatest achievement?
Academically, it’s passing my accountancy exams and completing my training contract to become a member of ICAEW. Personally, it’s my children, who are growing up into lovely little human beings.
What is it about your role at GBLF that inspires you?
As my role is in the finance department, my client is effectively the firm. So, I take inspiration in helping the firm achieve its goals by continually developing our management reporting, looking for additional ways to help fee earners monitor their financials and supporting the firm’s partners where I can.
How long have you worked at GBLF for, and what attracted you to the firm?
I have worked at the firm for about three and a half years. However, I began working with GBLF prior to this in 2013 when the SRA introduced the role of compliance officer for finance and administration (COFA). I worked as GBLF’s COFA which saw me working as a consultant and spending time at the firm each week. Soon, my role continued to develop until I became a full employee. I had no hesitation in joining the firm, as I had witnessed first-hand how friendly everyone is and how everyone works as a team to ensure the success and growth of the firm.
With offices located in Newcastle and Chesterle-Street, GBLF offers a range of legal services and advice across all areas of family, residential conveyancing, wills and probate, dispute resolution, corporate and commercial law. Its dedicated team of solicitors understand that each case is unique, and provide bespoke advice and guidance to individuals and organisations.
