International Women’s Day 2025

For International Women’s Day, as Michael Goodridge, Director of Clerking & Business Development, approaches 25 years at Deka (previously 9 Gough Chambers) he reflects on those who have most influenced his career to date.

As I celebrate twenty five years in Chambers later this year, to mark International Women’s Day I’ve given some thought to the women, past and present, who have influenced and enriched my career.

My first Chambers role was at 2 Gray’s Inn Square Chambers, a Common Law Set, like many were in 1998.

I was interviewed by the most charming, approachable woman, who put me at ease immediately; that person, is now Jo Brown KC, who I still see walking her dog occasionally through the grounds of The Temple.

We always have a big hug and reminisce about the past.

I moved on from 2 Gray’s Inn to my current Set, which at the time was 9 Gough Square.

This was a big move for me; more responsibility, a larger Set and so on.

This time I was interviewed by the then Chief Executive, Joanna Poulton.

Joanna was a straight talking businesswoman and whilst she was personable, I knew that impressing her would take some doing.

She set the bar high and instilled in me a saying that still rings in my ears today.. “follow the money”.

Deka Chambers, which formed in October 2022 and was the amalgamation of 9 Gough Chambers and 1 Chancery Lane, afforded further opportunity by allowing me to oversee the practices of two female Silks, namely Laura Johnson KC and Sarah Prager KC.

Watching their practices grow and stock continuing to rise warms the heart of any Senior Clerk, but just as important, they are an inspiration to many of the women in Chambers who have aspirations to take Silk (and there are many in Chambers who I guarantee will achieve it).

Last year, we lost the wonderful Claire Harden-Frost to the Circuit Bench, our loss, the Lord Chancellor’s gain.

Claire was also a huge inspiration to many of our Members and the wider Bar.

Her tireless efforts on the Pupillage Committee, coupled with her warm demeanour, have given us a raft of successful practitioners; we owe her a huge debt of gratitude.

This brief commentary would not be complete without a mention of my dear friend, Lucy Barbet.

Lucy was Senior Clerk at 11KBW and was integral to the success and high profile that Set enjoys.

She was also the first female Chair of the Institute of Barrister’s Clerks, another position that she excelled in.

Lucy is, without doubt, an inspiration to all female Clerks and I’m sure to the women who assist in the smooth running of Deka Chambers, namely Ellie Brand, Lauren Carter, Abigail Clark, Lily Mason, Amy Seingier, Audrey Cockram, Emma Williams and Andrea Spence-Hinds.

Thank you everyone – you continue to inspire us all, both women and men.