‘It is always better to be who you are’: Meet construction lawyer Aleisa Crepin

‘It is always better to be who you are’: Meet construction lawyer Aleisa Crepin

The value of authenticity is the best career advice Aleisa Crepin has ever received.

And it’s something she takes to work every day as a partner specialising in construction law in Baker McKenzie’s Brisbane office.

She says that it’s through the generosity and support of more senior women in her profession that she’s grown as a lawyer.

Aleisa’s the latest to feature in our new Q&A series called The Link, where we connect readers to the interesting work and ideas of different women.

Who and what do you lead?       

I help lead a team of dynamic and enthusiastic construction lawyers in our Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne offices.

Further to this, I am often leading large construction matters for some of Australia’s largest companies where a myriad of construction related issues might arise.

What are you working on right now that’s got you really excited?

As you’d expect, much of my current work is unfortunately not something I can disclose. I can however say that recent projects of significant scale include acting in regard to Perth airport.

One issue is making you really angry right now?

It is more a broader theme of inequality when it comes to women in leadership. I see so much rhetoric but little action and demonstrable representation at senior management/board level.

Best piece of career advice you ever received?

‘Authenticity’ – being authentic – it is something I pride myself on and was the best piece of advice ever given to me. We all want to make a good impression in life, however, it is always better to be who you are, of course the best version of you, and people will appreciate and respect you more.

What would you go back and tell yourself ten years ago? 

Be kind to yourself Aleisa! Don’t sweat the small stuff and ‘lean in’.

Biggest hurdle you’ve faced (or are still facing) in your career?  

As a young lawyer, learning to back myself. Even the best lawyers/engineers/accountants have moments of self doubt.  It’s about pushing that feeling to the back of your mind and pushing forward.

…How did/are you push through/work around it?

I was fortunate enough to have a fantastic mentor – a more senior woman who worked in the same firm. It is through the generosity of more senior women, I have drawn strength and grown as a legal professional. I hope to do the same for my junior lawyers both now and in the years to come.

How have mentors aided your career?

I have been extremely fortunate to have so many mentors in both my professional an personal life. I tend to gravitate towards inspiring people and am lucky they have been so generous with their time afforded to me.

What’s your favourite piece of tech?

On demand, digital content. Ability to watch news and entertainment in my own time, when convenient.

What daily publications do you read or follow?

I’m a keen follower of Claire Bibby’s updates on LinkedIn – what an inspiring woman. Women’s Agenda of course! More generally, I consume a wide diet of news, information and current affairs.

What apps or tools do you use to help manage your day?

iPhone calendar and a weather app seem to suffice.

Any industry associations you’re a part of or that you’d recommend to other women?

I’m a member of the National Association of Women in Construction.  It is a fantastic organisation that connects and celebrates women in the industry.

What book do you most recommend to other women when it comes to their career?  

Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg.

And what are you reading/watching/listening to right now (for work or pleasure)?

I love Media Watch and Q&A on the ABC. I am also partial to a good television series and have been enjoying The Crown on Netflix.

Where can people find out more about your work? 

I am somewhat active on LinkedIn, and I publish client updates that are available on the Baker McKenzie website and from time to time provide media commentary regarding construction related issues/trends.

Got a woman to suggest who you’d like to next read about on Women’s Agenda? 

I hear Hillary Clinton is in town.

×

Stay Smart! Get Savvy!

Get Women’s Agenda in your inbox