She loves incorporating the different aspects of her varied background into her daily work
Last month, Kain Lawyers announced that it had brought in seasoned energy and projects star Kelly Davies as a new director based in Sydney, capitalising on Australia’s increased focus on the energy market. The energy transition project specialist has worked on matters spanning the UK, Africa, Europe, the Middle East and Asia; she has tackled everything from the development, acquisition and financing of energy projects to energy procurement and the execution of sustainability strategies for large businesses.
In the first part of this interview conducted shortly after her appointment, Davies shares the unusual path she took to a legal career and why finding an old newspaper clipping during a school holiday clean-up became a memorable moment for her.
What made you choose a career in law?
My path to law wasn’t exactly linear. I began as a mathematician and scientist — studying maths, biology, chemistry, and physics before completing a degree in Oceanography and Marine Biology. Life, as it often does, took me on an unexpected adventure. I wanted to work in London, and somewhat green to the “real world” of business, I decided to keep studying. An MSc in Business and the Environment opened my eyes to how regulation can shape — or stall — environmental and energy projects, and that’s what ultimately drew me to law.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
Unsurprisingly, my favourite part of the job is the science, maths and technology underpinning what I do every day. Working in the energy sector allows me to collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry, and I still love learning about what makes complex projects work. But more than that, I value the people — my colleagues, clients, and industry peers. I once thought I wasn’t much of a “people person,” but it turns out I’d be lost without the brilliant, funny, and inspiring individuals who make this job so rewarding.
What in your opinion has been the most memorable event of your career to date?
Those who know me will tell you I’m not great at pausing to celebrate career milestones. My personal measure of success has always been doing my job well while being present as a wife and mum — and if you ask my family, they’ll tell you I’m doing okay on that front.
One memorable moment came to light recently during a school holiday clean-up, when my children unearthed an old newspaper clipping. It was an article about Telstra’s first corporate PPA — a transaction I had worked on that was innovative and market-leading at the time. I remember their pride at seeing “Mum in the paper,” insisting on cutting out the article and keeping it. It reminded me to look at my work through their eyes, celebrate those achievements, and be proud of what I do.
If you could relive one day in your life, which day would it be and why?
My wedding day — without question. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have the most wonderful partner beside me for over 15 years. He’s been my anchor through every up, down and sideways turn. On that day, he made sure everyone else was happy while I danced the night away in a big dress — and it still feels like the perfect metaphor for our life together. I’d relive it in a heartbeat. It was the start of a beautiful journey filled with adventure, laughter, and the reminder that behind this woman is a truly exceptional man.
