Michael Ball, Partner & Head of Department, Gateley - Employment Team of the Year Winner

Why did you choose a career in law?

My dad worked in a crisp factory and law seemed as far away as possible from potatoes. I might have been wrong.

What attracted you to your particular specialism?

The confidence of knowing your employment rights during appraisal season.

What is the most enjoyable part of your job?

The constant search for an enjoyable part to it

What particular challenges are you facing in these tougher times?

There is not enough room for a reply to this.

Where do you think the opportunities for growth in the legal profession in the next few years?

In my specialism it will be mediation and a real focus on alternative ways of resolving workplace issues.

What’s been your most enjoyable recent piece of work?

Most enjoyable is that we are running a CSR project for Contact Theatre in Manchester to help young performers understand how to set up their own theatre companies.

What inspires you when it comes to your work?

The ability to organise meetings around Everton away games

Do you work by a particular mantra or motto in your business life?

Work like there is no tomorrow, love like you have never been hurt and dance like there is no one watching

Can you give one piece of professional advice to your peers?

Don't drink cappuccino after 10am