The Flacks & Wong senior associate is proud that he can show up for both clients and family
Jason Maddox had two things in mind as he applied for university: he was looking for a challenge, and he wanted to work in corporate.
He settled on a law and commerce degree, and today, he finds himself a successful corporate and commercial law specialist with over 14 years of experience under his belt. In the first part of this interview, the Flacks & Wong senior associate shares a defining moment in his career and talks being able to juggle work and family without compromise.
What made you choose a career in law?
When applying for university I knew I wanted a challenge and to work in the corporate world. I decided on a law and commerce degree and was then fortunate enough to intern at leading accounting and law firms. After that, I knew I wanted to be a corporate lawyer.
What's your favourite part of the job?
My favourite part of the job is problem solving to achieve successful outcomes for clients. I find great satisfaction in signing and completing transactions – often the destination after a months’ long journey. I also enjoy bonding with the various deal team members and learning about different industries through the transaction process.
What in your opinion has been the most memorable event of your career to date?
There have been a few defining moments, but one that stands out is successfully advising a NZX-listed client on a series of transformative transactions, including material acquisitions by amalgamation with shares as a component of the consideration. Those transactions drew on multiple areas of law and involved the application of the Financial Markets Conduct Act securities offer requirements to a situation that had not previously been tested.
What has been your proudest accomplishment in the last year or so?
My proudest accomplishment has been successfully navigating work and young family life without compromising either. Being able to ‘show up’ for both clients and family when needed is important.
What’s the biggest lesson you learned in your career and what advice can you give fellow lawyers about it?
The biggest lessons I have learned are that there is always something new to learn and the best learning opportunities are outside your comfort zone. By continuing to challenge ourselves we learn new things and become more rounded lawyers.
