Simon Hore, Partner, Corporate
What motivated you to become a lawyer?
After studying Economics at university, the natural progression as into accounting or finance but I realised I was more of a “words” than “numbers” person so I completed the law conversion course. I enjoy problem solving and soon realised as a trainee in practice that helping clients achieve their goals, be it growing their business or selling after a lifetime’s work, is hugely rewarding. The law conversion also allowed me another year of rugby at University!
Why what are of the law do you specialise in?
Corporate work – buying and selling companies and businesses is what I do day-in day-out but I also assist with investment, shareholders’ agreements, loan agreement and employee options schemes. I am also part of our Banking team which is useful in transaction with funders in the background as I am aware of their requirements and can work to accommodate those thus avoiding undue delays for the clients.
Can you highlight a case or a standout moment that was particularly interesting?
We recently completed the sale of a business for a couple that were looking to retire. They had built the business up over 30 years but unfortunately, through no fault of their own, their proposed sale to a Buyer fell through the first two times. As a result, they were nervous about committing again to a sale process but we were able to carefully guide them and reassure them which resulted in a successful sale for which they were very grateful as it allowed them to move on in their life which was thoroughly deserved. It wasn’t the biggest deal, but it was hugely important to them and rewarding to assist them.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Happy and grateful clients, who are often surprised at the intensity and level of detail that a sale process involves. Making the call to congratulate them on their success is always a lovely moment.
What do you like to do outside of work?
As a lifelong Bristol Rugby fan, it’s been quite the roller-coaster of highs and lows (mainly lows!) but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’ve always watched and played cricket but in my “old age” I’ve also become a passionate follower of Test Cricket over the ubiquitous dull white ball game.
When was the last time you did something for the first time?
I took my two-year-old daughter to her first rugby match which was a lovely moment.
Name one thing that makes your life better?
DocuSign! Gone are the days of printing off up to 100 documents for individual signatures. Thankfully signing platforms allow us to deal with signature and completion in a much more efficient way – although it also means there are less in person completion meetings and so less champagne being opened to mark the occasion!
View Simon's professional profile and get in contact here.
