In the High Flyers spotlight this week is Paul Kearney, former barrister and solicitor advocate, managing director of Kearney Law Group. To take part in the High Flyers Q&A, get in touch via business@irishnews.com.
What was your first job?
My first job was a summer job, filing away old files in the basement of a law firm, so you could say I started at the bottom and worked my way up.
What qualifications do you have?
I am dual qualified – I am a qualified barrister and a practising solicitor in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
To what do you attribute to your success?
I would attribute my success to resilience and perseverance, with an added sprinkle of creativity. My belief is that to succeed, you need to be an expert in your field, which is why I have invested a lot into gaining the qualifications that I have, so that I can provide the best and highest quality of service to my clients.
How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
Someone who is single-minded and motivated to succeed. I enjoy getting results, which translates into getting the best possible results for my clients.
Who do you look up to in business?
I don’t necessarily look up to anyone. In life, I think you have got to be your own mentor, though I do believe we can learn a lot, about what to do and what not to do, by observing the way in which others conduct business.
How do you get the best out of people who work for you?
People need to feel invested in the process and they need to know that their efforts contribute to a successful outcome. I have a great team at Kearney Law Group and acknowledge their efforts in making our firm one of the best there is. That’s how you get the best out of people.
If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?
I think the current climate has shone a light on the fact that many long-established businesses do not utilise technology properly and as a result, their processes are inefficient and ineffective. We need to embrace the digital age and increase our connectivity as things are changing whether we like it or not. Legal technology was something I invested in when launching Kearney Law Group and I believe this investment has ensured that we have not been impacted by the current coronavirus pandemic; if anything, it has helped us reach more clients due to our ability to work and communicate remotely.
What website or app could you not do without?
One of my favourite apps is Audible. I love the variety of audiobooks available and it can be a good way to switch off from work and relax.
What was the last book you read?
Again, this was an audiobook, but it was ‘The Prince’ by Machiavelli.
What car do you drive?
I do have a weak spot for sports cars; that’s all I’ll say.
Tell us something interesting about yourself?
Around 10 years ago, I spent a few months in a Muay Thai Boxing camp being trained by Buddhist monks. This was a fantastic experience within the hills of North Thailand.
What’s your greatest passion outside of work and family?
I love horse riding, particularly on the beach.
