The eprivateclient 50 Most Influential is the definitive rankings of the key players in the UK and offshore private client practitioner sector.
To showcase the achievements of those listed this year and to get to know them a bit better, eprivateclient has began publishing a new Q&A series with our 2021 50 Most Influentials.
In the hot seat today is Mishcon de Reya partner Filippo Noseda. Formerly a partner at Withers, Filippo is a dual qualified English solicitor and Swiss lawyer and advises clients on international tax and estate planning issues.
Filippo Noseda
What advice would you give your younger self?
Don't fool yourself. It's not as simple as you might think. But you would be a fool for not trying.
What do you find most rewarding about your role?
There was a time, not very long ago, where the laws became so complex that lawyers risked becoming some robots regurgitating obscure sections of obscure laws. Now, I believe that complexity gave way to opportunities, to peel the layers of the onion and find simple and practical solutions.
What challenges do you see your firm/clients facing in 2021?
The uncertainties of a world where the abyss between rich and poor increases as a result of the pandemic is likely to create tensions and stoke unrest. Recent events in the US are a clear reminder of what a fractured society can do to us.
What does being named a 50 Most Influential mean to you?
It is a recognition that all the hard work has not been in vain. And the word 'influential' is very different from 'important". Every one of us is important, possibly with the exception of those who feel self-important. But influential is a nice feeling.
What is the favourite part of your job?
The creative part of taking problems apart and putting together practical solutions.
What made you choose to focus on private client work?
For some it's the bling of wealth. Or the ability to brush shoulders with famous people. For me, it's listening to new stories every day. The endless story of human nature. Inhabiting the bodies of clients.
What book/luxury item would you want with you on a desert island?
A copy of the Jungle Book cartoon. To remind me of enjoying the bare necessities of life on the island.
If you were not in (and it is not) your current role, what would be your dream job?
Interior decorator-cum-property developer. Same job of realising dreams. But with something physical at the end of the process to show for.
What’s your favourite hobbies/passions/interests outside of work?
I have ADHD, so I cannot keep up with long books. But I love magazines and watching movies with my family. And walking with my wife, chatting away like when we were younger.
What one piece of advice has benefited you the most in your career?
'You think it's the advice? It is not. It's how comfortable a client feels with it.'
