The Corporate team at Field Seymour Parkes is one of the region’s largest and most dynamic, advising on a broad spectrum of transactions from SME sales and early stage venture capital investments through to complex, multi-jurisdictional M&A deals and private equity buyouts . Known for its depth of expertise in general corporate, private equity & venture capital, banking & finance and insolvency, the team continues to grow in both size and capability. The team recently welcomed new joiners Lauren Buckmaster, Avneet Athuraliya and Thelma Brako. Lauren and Avneet both joined from well-respected firms whilst Thelma trained with FSP qualifying into the Corporate team. They each bring fresh energy to a team already recognised for its collaborative spirit, high-quality work, and supportive culture.
Discover what inspired Avneet, Lauren and Thelma to pursue corporate law, choose FSP, and what they’ve learned since joining our team:
Why FSP?
For all three, the decision to join FSP’s Corporate team was driven by a shared appreciation for the firm’s distinctive culture and the quality of its work.
Lauren was drawn to the team’s “top-down supportive environment,” noting how it stands out from other corporate practices in the region. Thelma echoed this, highlighting the “collaborative nature across all levels.” Avneet was particularly impressed by the opportunity to work on a wide variety of transactions, including general corporate, private equity and venture capital, and alongside the banking and finance team.
First Impressions Matter
From day one, they all felt welcomed and empowered. Lauren appreciated the balance between supervision and autonomy, with regular informal check-ins from partners. Avneet values the emphasis that is placed on achieving a positive deal experience for all parties concerned and can see that working in that way maintains relationships and helps clients manage their costs.
Collaboration in Action
The team’s collaborative and commercial approach is more than just a tagline, it’s embedded in the day-to-day. Avneet shared how every transaction she’s worked on so far has involved input from all levels across the team, regardless of seniority, and has noted that other departments within the firm are equally supportive and appreciate the tight deadlines frequently imposed by corporate transactions.
Supporting Growth and Development
For junior lawyers, the FSP Corporate team offers a rich environment for growth. Lauren values the variety of work that promotes being a well-rounded lawyer, while Thelma appreciates the team’s commitment to providing the right opportunities to develop her skills. Avneet highlighted the open-door culture, where no question is too small and someone is always available to help.
Looking Ahead
All three are excited about the breadth of work ahead, from SME sales to complex, multi-jurisdictional M&A deals. The team’s size and vibrancy mean there’s always something new to learn and a wide range of clients and sectors to engage with.
A Place to Grow
When asked what’s surprised or inspired them most since joining, the responses were telling:
Lauren praised the team’s commitment to quality and the firm’s community-minded ethos, particularly having its own charitable foundation, The FSP Foundation. Avneet shared her excitement about diving into private equity and venture capital work, an area she had not previously had exposure to, while Thelma emphasised the value of being part of a team that genuinely invests in its people.
With a team that combines scale, specialist knowledge, and a commitment to client service, FSP’s Corporate practice is well-positioned for continued growth. From advising investors and entrepreneurs to managing complex corporate transactions, we offer lawyers the chance to work on high-quality matters across multiple sectors. As we welcome Avneet, Lauren and Thelma we look forward to building on our reputation as a leading Corporate team in the Thames Valley and beyond, where collaboration, expertise, and opportunity go hand in hand.
