IISTL Placements in the UK

Michael Biltoo

Ece Birinci

Paralegal, Hannaford Turner LLP, London

• How did your Swansea LLM help you in getting your current position?

I studied my LLM in International Maritime Law at Swansea. The program was very detailed, with the modules being quite comprehensive. The four modules that I selected were the ones I found most interesting, personally, and additionally, I picked the Mooting and Employability modules – which I found to be invaluable. As a lawyer qualified in Turkey I had initial doubts about studying English law, thinking that it would be difficult to understand, however all of the modules, apart from teaching the peculiarities of maritime law, also gave us the main basics of English law.

Swansea’s IISTL has a remarkable teaching team. Moreover, the lecturers consider every student and their career plans. The institute plans the Employability module for the whole year and each week the students get to chance to meet successful professionals from the maritime market. Having a professional background of seven years in maritime law combined with Swansea’s knowledge and vision, helped me to obtain my career objective. The most important things I could advise: be curious, choose the modules you are enthusiastic about, and use Mooting and Employability modules as a way of networking.

• What advice can you give to current students in their job search?

It was the first term’s first Employability class when Dr Leloudas advised us to make a list of the firms/companies that we would like to apply to. I made my list right away. When I started looking for a job, it was twice as easy for me because I knew what I wanted, and what I didn’t want.

Be prepared before coming to Employability sessions, make a quick background search of the guest lecturer for that week and have your questions ready. Job searching is a stressful period, so have a plan, have a table showing where you applied for, and update it. Have your cover letter and CV ready, and be sure that their contents are worthy of the position you are aiming for. Be yourself, ready for anything, do not give up easily, do not be obsessed, just find a balance right for you. When deciding, do not hesitate to ask questions to the people you see as mentors. You will discover your potential, and what you are capable of. In the end, it is important to build yourself and make the most of the time you have in Swansea.

Deven Choudhary

Legal Manager, Campbell Johnston Clark Ltd, Newcastle, England

• How did your Swansea LLM help you?

The LLM at Swansea University is actually quite renowned, not only for its course structure but also its faculty. The multi-prong integrated approach, interwoven in Swansea’s course, allowed me to expand my horizons on learning and understanding. This not only gave me a fresh insight but also enabled me to plan strategically for my approach in the industry. Personally, where I was in my career, I needed that extra step which I knew that an LLM in International Maritime Law at Swansea University would provide me with.

• What advice can you give to current students in their job search?

My foremost suggestion would be to maintain a proper Linkedin profile: it’s crucial in today’s world. The University organises several meet-and-greets throughout the year, which not only give you important insight into the English market but allow you an opportunity to socialise with experts in the field. I would also suggest keeping a lookout for internship opportunities, and if possible pursuing them during the winter break (whether they be in law firms, P&I Clubs or any other related organisations). Stay connected with the alumni on Linkedin and understand the market requirements. Being a niche sector, it is highly possible that the market situation may not always remain the same. It’s actually quite fluid and gets directly impacted by global events.

Ekaterina Danzas

Contract and Tender Engineer, HST Marine, Swansea

• How did your Swansea LLM help you in getting your current position?

I completed an LLM in Maritime law at Swansea University and the opportunity to study here was one of my best decisions. Having experience in marine insurance, the choice of four modules before starting the program was quite obvious to me (i.e., The Law of Marine Insurance, Charterparties: Law and Practice, Carriage of Goods by Sea, Land and Air, Admiralty law). I knew from the very beginning what I came for and what I needed. The fact that I didn’t have a law degree made my year challenging but even more interesting than I could have anticipated.

During the year I had to study a lot, however, thanks to an extremely adaptive and concisely built program, clarity appeared quite quickly. A huge amount of interesting and relevant materials were provided by lecturers at lectures and seminars, and everything for additional reading could be found in the library, which, by the way, is open 24/7.

And the most important value of the program (I said so already and will continue to do so) is the teaching staff. In addition to being experts in their field, the lecturers are also amazing people who, during the lessons, charged with energy and a love for their work, motivated me to work even harder. Yes, indeed, the flow of information was huge and varied. One thing I can say for sure - it was worth it. Already at the beginning of June, I started working as a Contract and Tender Engineer at HST Marine.

• What advice can you give to current students in their job search?

 A year of study at Swansea University is an investment in yourself, in your own intellectual capital. I believe it is necessary to understand this from the beginning and to start studying without putting it off until the last moment. Any changes, especially when they are conscious, are very good and there is no need to be afraid of them. I would highly recommend to subsequent students not to miss the opportunities provided by the institute; attend lectures, participate in seminars, go to electives, communicate with classmates and invited experts, expand your own contacts, which is especially important in the shipping sector.

I found my job with the help of the university when I received a notice of a vacancy - I confirm from my own experience that this is a working scheme that should not be neglected. The collaboration of my experience and the knowledge gained over the year made me feel confident enough at my very first interview in the UK, which later led to a job offer and employment. Now I am doing what I love, in a wonderful company with wonderful people, and I am sincerely grateful for this to Swansea University and the Professors.

Azeke Ikeke Dennis

Audit Assistant Trainee, RSM UK, Bristol

• How did your Swansea LLM help you?

First and foremost, a requirement of getting a visa sponsorship (for international students) is a recognised UK degree. In my job interview I could speak confidently about Swansea University and being trained by a team of industry experts. I could also talk about plays I had published in Waterfront, the school’s prestigious student magazine.

• What advice can you give to current students in their job search?

My advice isn’t long, it’s just two words. STAY POSITIVE. I remember having to shut away people who were saying it was impossible to get a job out there and that nobody was sponsoring. Believe me: there are sponsors out there, you just have to look for them. Finally, be confident, Swansea is a prestigious school, and its faculty is very well respected. Never shy away from being proud of the school and of the amazing team currently teaching you.

Edmundo Deville-Del-Aguilla

Paralegal, Tatham Macinnes LLP, London

• How did your Swansea LLM help you in getting your current position?

The LLM Programme offered by Swansea University is very well regarded in practice. That put any Swansea LLM graduate in a prime position when looking for a job. This is undoubtedly due to the amazing education you will receive, which will give you all the knowledge you require and are looked for by the industry. In that sense, the LLM I pursued at Swansea helped me become visible to potential employers.

Additionally, thanks to its renowned reputation, the Institute of International Shipping and Trade Law received requests from several employers looking to hire new talent which are then offered to the students, increasing the chances to obtain a job.

• What advice can you give to current students in their job search?

Holistically, many factors influence a job hunt, and good education is just part of it. I would recommend using this time to push boundaries by working hard towards your LLM and building a good network.

Xabier Gutiérrez Echevarría

Broker, Atlantic Insurance & Reinsurance Brokers, London

• How did your Swansea LLM help you?

The LLM from Swansea University can certainly make the difference when applying for a job. Its prestige and quality never go unnoticed in the selection processes, and I believe it is especially helpful in cases like mine where I wanted to stay and work in the UK without holding any previous British qualification.

• What advice can you give to current students in their job search?

Getting a job can be a lengthy process. I would suggest that students start looking for jobs as soon as possible and invest a fair amount of time in completing applications. No doubt you will sometimes get an email template with a rejection or not even a response at all. But, you should show resilience and not give up! Also, learn from the unsuccessful interviews. You might be the best candidate for a role, but if you cannot demonstrate that during the interview you will not get anywhere. My last piece of advice would be to take advantage of all the means that the School provides to enhance your employability prospects. What I mean is do not only take the Employability module and assume all will be fine. The module is very useful but do not hesitate to ask the professors about tips for interviews or suggestions for specific companies and roles. They know the market very well and that is what makes Swansea LLM different than most!

Nanami Hara

Average Adjustor, Richards Hogg Lindley, London 

After working as average adjuster in Japan and UK, Nanami completed her LLM in International Maritime Law in Swansea University. She then secured a position as average adjuster at Richards Hogg Lindley, an international average adjusting firm. She is now working as a fully qualified adjuster for their clients from shipping and marine insurance industry.

Captain Anshuman Jain

HSSEQ Manager, V Ships UK Ltd, Glasgow

Anshuman is an expert in marine safety, operations and quality and is a key member of the HSEQ leadership team at the UK office of one of the largest Ship Management companies in the world (V Ships UK Ltd). His Maritime LLM degree from Swansea (with distinction) has assisted him in providing invaluable guidance to his clients and managing vessels across the globe.

Omkar Joshi

Master Mariner, MFB, London

• How did your Swansea LLM help you in getting your current position?

The LLM from Swansea University has helped me in two ways: Firstly, the knowledge imparted by the faculty during the course was invaluable. Moreover, the faculty, without a doubt, is legendary with their vast experience in this sector. Such factors act as a confident booster and help to aim high. Secondly, the university created a great platform for us to network within the industry with its employability initiatives and alumni.

• What advice can you give to current students in their job search?

Holistically, many factors influence a job hunt, and good education is just part of it. I would recommend using this time to push boundaries by working hard towards your LLM and building a good network.

Jayshankar Kizhakkedath

Claims Executive

• How did your Swansea LLM help you in getting your current position?

Attending the LLM program opened my views on International Maritime Law in general and gave me an insight into how the Marine Insurance industry operates, which eventually helped me get a claims executive job at NorthStandard P&I Club. The lecturers at Swansea University helped a person like me with no legal background understand the fine details of Maritime Law. We have a large number of Swansea alumni working here at NorthStandard who would vouch for the LLM program at Swansea University. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my lecturers for helping me achieve my goal.

• What advice can you give to current students in their job search?

The only advice I would give to the students will be to set a goal and work for it.  Utilise your time at the University to improve your networking skills, which will help you in the long run. 

Arunabh Kumar

North Standard

• How did your Swansea LLM help you in getting your current position?

The LLM programme in International Maritime Law offered by Swansea University is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after qualifications and has gained a reputation for excellence. 

I benefitted greatly through the core modules that have been designed upon extensive and continual research by a team of esteemed professors. The best part about the course was learning from professors who I adulate and reckon are legends in their respective fields. While I enjoyed sharing the class with a competent cohort, it was simply inspiring to engage with the professors. I found the methodology of imparting key concepts, evolution of law through the latest cases and other developments in the industry, as well as the pedagogy in general was unparalleled. 

It is no wonder that Swansea LLM holders are currently sought after in the market for their concepts and aptitude in research. Further, I benefitted through the Employability module which provides the necessary tools to anyone looking to utilize and practice the learnt concepts in the maritime industry. Additionally, the employability trips and regular meetings with industry stalwarts were quite insightful.

• What advice can you give to current students in their job search?

As mentioned above, I strongly recommend current students pursue the Employability module as well as the Mooting module. The guidance was succinct in preparing for the job market. In addition, one must maintain a descriptive LinkedIn profile as well as prepare custom CVs and cover letters for different roles. However, above all, one must utilize their time during LLM to the fullest and strive to acquire the concepts holistically; the outcome will certainly be fruitful and help open doors in the industry.

Sarah Cruz Lima

Claims Team Leader, UIA Mutual Insurance Ltd, Stevenage

Sarah is the Claims Team Leader at UIA Mutual Insurance Ltd at Stevenage. She specialises in Claims Performance Management, having led multiple claims teams within the Motor and Household insurance sectors.

Karin Garfjeld Roberts

Capt. Vineet Sabharwal

Vessel Manager, Swansea

• How did your Swansea LLM help you in getting your current position?

The Swansea LLM degree has two distinct yet connected aspects to it.

The first feature is the actual knowledge that you gain while pursuing your degree here at Swansea. It pushes you to broaden your horizon and by doing so, you gain insight and perspective on how the maritime industry reacts to the legal principles and framework established by the English Law.

The second and equally important feature is about the people who help you to realize your true potential here and achieve the desired academic excellence you are after. The efforts and influence of this much respected and celebrated faculty of Swansea ensures that during your degree, you are presented with numerous opportunities to interact and share experiences with highly placed professionals from the maritime industry and those who hold key positions in various respectable organisations.

Along with my vast sea going experience, both of the above-mentioned aspects were instrumental in helping me bag the opportunity to work in the maritime (renewables) industry.

• What advice can you give to current students in their job search?

The process of looking for a job is no perfect science. There are lots of variables at play. Some variables are in your control while the others are not. Try and keep your focus on the variables you can control and how you can improve upon them, and leave the rest to GOD. If you are dedicated and sincere in your efforts, I assure you that your share of success will be just around the corner……All the very best!

Nazmus Sakib

Technical Advisor, Maritime & Coastguard Agency, Southampton

• How did your Swansea LLM help you in getting your current position?

My LLM experience at Swansea University played a pivotal role in securing my current position. Swansea University's strong reputation within the maritime industry was instrumental in providing me with this opportunity. As a Master Mariner, I found that my prior experience in the shipping industry synergized well with the legal knowledge and insights imparted during the LLM program taught by the professors who are renowned in the industry.

One of the standout features of the program was the diverse and international class composition. This enabled me to engage and interact with maritime professionals from various parts of the world, which broadened my perspective and knowledge of the industry.

Furthermore, the employability module within the LLM program proved to be a valuable resource. The module is planned by the institute over the course of the entire academic year, and each week, students have the opportunity to network with successful maritime professionals from the industry. It created a platform for me to establish meaningful professional networks that have been beneficial in my current role.

• What advice can you give to current students in their job search?

My advice would be to fully embrace the LLM experience, as it is a time filled with potential. To begin, create a list of your desired employers in the maritime industry and conduct thorough research, including networking on platforms like LinkedIn. Stay updated on industry trends through resources like the IISTL blog. Same time start refining your CV and cover letter early to tailor them to specific job opportunities. Additionally, take advantage of the employability modules provided by the institution, as they can offer valuable guidance and help you connect with professionals in the field…. Good Luck!

Florian Schacker

Effrisyni Stefanopoulou

Claims Assistant

• How did your Swansea LLM help you in getting your current position?

Studying International Maritime Law in Swansea not only gave me the opportunity to understand the maritime sector from a legal perspective, but it also enabled me to fulfil my dreams unexpectedly early, even before my graduation. The LLM program has a global reputation in the field of maritime law, as it provides academic excellence in the most critical and practical factors for a postgraduate programme. I couldn’t imagine how many useful things I could learn in a year. Finally, the fact that I was surrounded by students from different nationalities allowed me to create an international network of contacts.

• What advice can you give to current students in their job search?

If I could give some advice, I would suggest they choose their modules wisely, as these will be the first thing that the recruiters check, and attend the optional employability courses, as they are useful and helpful for everyone. Also, students should avoid limiting their focus to one field or specific company but instead be open to gaining any experience they can first. I highly recommend students use professional web platforms, such as LinkedIn, which is an essential tool to find great professional opportunities. Believe in yourself, and always remember that you are lucky choosing to study this program. Swansea’s LLM will certainly open doors for you!

Sagun Sudhir

Lawyer, Sea Green Law, Kent

Sagun was the recipient of the IISTL Prize for the best LLM dissertation, Ince & Co Prize for the best performing LLM student and the HFW Prize in Carriage of Goods. He currently works as a Foreign Qualified Lawyer with Sea Green Law in the UK. With work experience in three different jurisdictions, Sagun has been exposed to various aspects of maritime law including charterparty disputes, cargo claims, ship arrests, bunker disputes and sanctions.

Beyza Torlak

Paralegal, Lester Aldridge, Bournemouth

‘’After a productive year in Swansea University, I joined Lester Aldridge Solicitors as a paralegal in the maritime department. I am grateful that all the valuable knowledge I learnt during my LLM is now integrated into my professional life.’’

Vishesh Barjeev Tyagi

Paralegal, Hannaford Turner, London

I had a meeting with Matt Hannaford (Hannaford Turner LLP) and the firm has offered me a 6-week paralegal contract. Although the contract period is quite short, it is still an amazing opportunity for me! If I perform well and the firm sees availability, I may be able to get a long-term contract in the firm as well. I am very excited and looking forward to starting the position! I am sure that this will help me perform well in the firm. I'd like to take this opportunity to especially thank you for all your support throughout the year. It has been a year where I learnt a lot and grew, both as a person as well as a young professional. I am always grateful for all the opportunities that IISTL has provided. I look forward to a new start and will look back at my year with IISTL with great admiration!

Ina Wang

James White

Claims Executive, Shipowners Club, London

Immediately after completing his LLM at Swansea, James was offered a position at Charles Taylor plc in London. He later moved to The Shipowners’ Club and works there as a Claims Executive. The Shipowners’ Club is the leading P&I insurer in the smaller and specialist vessel sector providing members with claims handling and general support in all kinds of P&I related matters.

Rosslynn Yinn

Lawyer, Eversheds, Stockport

Lynn graduated from Swansea with an LLB in Law with American Studies and LLM (Distinction) in International Trade Law. After graduation, and completing her LPC, Lynn trained with Eversheds Sutherland and qualified into the Commercial Dispute Resolution team. Lynn advises on a broad range of commercial disputes, from contractual claims to a range of reputation management issues such as defamation (including internet forums, print and television) and take down requests. Lynn also provides strategic advice to a range of household name clients.

Lynn’s experience includes advising on an £80m dispute, defending against allegations of breach of contract, economic duress, conspiracy and intimidation; defending a group of companies against public interest winding up petitions presented by the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy; acting on a multi-million pound cross border dispute arising out of a fatal accident; acting on a high profile dispute involving a range of cutting edge legal issues, valued at over £50million which has received a large amount of attention from both the legal press and general media.

Dr Yang Zhao

Fan Zouran

Claims Assistant, Standard Club, London

• How did your Swansea LLM help you in getting your current position?

The Maritime Law LLM program offered at Swansea University is well renowned within the international maritime industry, and many former graduates are highly regarded within the field, which is particularly advantageous for me as a new graduate. Being someone with no former legal study background, I found the teaching styles of our lecturers very accommodating in the sense that the lectures are designed in a way that caters not only to those who are former law graduates and practitioners, but also to those without former knowledge and experience like myself.

For instance, the LLM program offers a ‘tasting menu’ of all the modules one can take during the induction week for new students to try out and form a general sense of each module. This is a brilliant way for new students with no experience in Maritime law to test the water before making a full commitment. Thanks to our phenomenal lecturers and supporting peers, I have gained valuable and practical legal knowledge that prepared me to face the technical questions raised during my interview confidently. Together with the great reputation set forth by our lecturers and alumni of the Maritime LLM program, I was able to secure the position as a claim assistant at the Standard Club in London.

• What advice can you give to current students in their job search?

My advice to current students is not to wait for the last minute and constantly seek new opportunities. Always be prepared by having the relevant materials ready for submission such as an up-to-date CV and a template cover letter which can be easily tinkered with to be tailored to the job positions you are applying to.

Furthermore, taking the Employability module offered as a non-credit bearing module also will assist you tremendously in searching for the right job in the industry since not only will this course be useful for giving you an idea of what each career option will offer, it also gives you the opportunity to meet and greet with people that are well positioned within their specialised field. This networking opportunity is invaluable and can be the key to landing a job as it shows that you are truly interested in the field and position you are applying for.