Annabel Moore graduated with a Bachelor of Laws in 1985 and is now the General Counsel (Asia Pacific) for Diageo PLC 

What first attracted you to study at Birmingham?

The campus environment attracted me to study at Birmingham – coupled with the reputation of the Law School.

Can you tell us a little about your career progression since graduation?

After studying for my Law Society finals, I went to a London based firm to do my articles. The firm was subsequently acquired by Lawrence Graham Solicitors and I stayed with them for 6 years. I then actively started looking for an in house role. I was with a subsidiary of AT&T for 12 months (a company that makes ATMs) and I then joined Guinness PLC in 1995. I moved to Singapore with Guinness in 1997 as the first regional counsel for the Company for Asia Pacific.

Guinness merged with Grand Metropolitan PLC in 1997 and became Diageo PLC: I am still with Diageo PLC and still in Singapore: I describe my responsibilities as ‘managing legal risk’ in the region.

How do you feel your studies have influenced or helped you in your career?

Studying at Birmingham Law School gave me an excellent grounding in law. The course was practical and helped me realise that I wanted to pursue a career in the law.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Being asked to move to Singapore!

What did you enjoy most about your time at Birmingham? Any favourite memories of campus?

I loved my time at Birmingham. I made friends there that I am still in touch with today. I remember the Law tutors being very accessible and the lectures being very well run. My time at Birmingham taught me independence, both in terms of how we were encouraged to study but also in terms of broader life skills: for example, finding accommodation in the 2nd and 3rd years and getting jobs to fund my way through (I worked in the Union bar and in a pub in Moseley).

What advice would you give to current or prospective Birmingham students?

University of Birmingham has so much to offer - make the most of your time here. Balance studies and your social life. Join loads of different societies and grab as many opportunities as you can!