Fair, open, effective, shrewd and independent
Want to know what people who already work with us think about life at the Legal Ombudsman? Here's what our staff have to say...Sehar Syed – investigator
Working at the Legal Ombudsman has been a brilliant experience for me so far, and I really do enjoy coming to work every day. One of the things I noticed when I first started was how much thought had been put in to helping us all enjoy our work. This can be seen in every aspect of LeO; from the breakout areas where we can, meet, work and relax to the open plan offices which mean it truly is a flat organisation. For me, this was a really exciting thing to see as it shows a genuinely concern for staff and how they feel. The range of experience and expertise within the office is brilliant. If you don't know something or have any questions there is always somebody around to help.Liz Shepherd – Director of Operations
The first thing that strikes you about the offices of the Legal Ombudsman is the buzz. There is a lot of conversation and activity. For all the friendliness and informality there is a lot of work getting done and standards are high so you have to bring your best game. But when the work is sorted there is a lot of humour and the atmosphere is unbelievably supportive. The calibre of the other people in the team is amazing, there is a real range of experience and background so there is always something new to learn from colleagues. I have given up being an owner and partner in my own business to be part of this team because it is such a great place to work, and because the work itself is so important.Darren Martin – business analyst
I would be willing to bet that actively enjoying coming to work every day is a rare experience for most, if not all, people. However, I can honestly say working for the Legal Ombudsman has been just such an experience. We work in a lively, creative environment where innovative thought is encouraged and acted upon, the atmosphere is challenging but also extremely supportive, the culture is inclusive and transparent. This is an organisation where everyone wants to make a difference and there is a determination to put in place something that will bring a new approach to the legal sector. This gives a focus and foundation to the work we undertake.Simply put I have found it to be great fun working here - friendly, welcoming and warm. It has definitely been a very positive opportunity which has indeed made coming to work every day something to look forward to.
Andy Taylor – board secretary
I think we can be proud that we are professional, welcoming and friendly.We have worked very hard to achieve this and base our success on our talented team of motivated staff who all want to make a difference. I've found it is an environment where all staff are empowered to make continuous improvements in their area of responsibility, which generates a great deal of pride and passion for us all. It's also a very diverse place to work which I enjoy.
From my very first day, I've found that people look to each individual within the organisation to contribute and make a difference. I've also found it a place where people are supportive and treat one another with a great deal of courtesy and respect. It's a place where we work hard. But if you're willing to put pride and effort into your work, you will find the Legal Ombudsman an exciting, rewarding workplace where you have the opportunity to express yourself.
Stephanie Richards - assessor
Joining the organisation at this exciting time is an extremely rewarding experience as we are growing and progressing every day. There is a real sense of people bringing their different experiences and working together to build an organisation with strong values at its centre.I have found that one of the organisation's greatest assets is the people who work here. The culture is infectiously positive and people feel they can really make a difference, both to the organisation and to the way legal complaints are dealt with. As ideas and feedback are so warmly welcomed, individuals really do have a say in what goes on here. I felt like a valued member of the team straight away, as the office is a truly supportive and collaborative environment.
Silas Catling – Ombudsman
People ask me "What's it like working for the Legal Ombudsman?" I say, "It's fresh and exciting but involves serious work." When I joined I was struck by how friendly the team is. People matter. Differences are valued and every voice is heard. This does not mean you will get your own way but you feel involved and supported. If someone gets it wrong it's a chance to learn and improve, although we like to get it right first time.Is the Legal Ombudsman trying to be different? Definitely. How many places buy you a coffee on your first day? Seriously though, it's a place that really lives its values. You feel that you are part of a team on a journey to be the best and create something new. If you like a mental challenge and can respect others whilst valuing diversity it's the place to be.