Alfie Mackay – Rising Clerking Stars: Career Inspiration and Advice from the Next Generation

We’re continuing our Rising Clerking Stars series, shining a spotlight on those building exciting careers in clerking and sharing their experiences and advice for anyone considering whether the profession could be right for them. 🌟

Next up: Alfie Mackay, Assistant Practice Manager at FOURTEEN.

Alfie started working in retail at 16 alongside studying for his A-Levels, gaining early experience in communication, customer service and working effectively as part of a team.

After hearing about clerking through a family friend, he was introduced to ABC. Alfie knew that he wanted to build a career in the City, liked the idea of working within the legal sector and had decided that university or an apprenticeship wasn’t the route he wanted to take.

Within a few weeks, he had interviewed with FOURTEEN, and in August 2022, his clerking career began.

Four years later, he hasn’t looked back.

Starting out by assisting with the day-to-day running of Chambers and supporting the wider clerking team, Alfie quickly began dealing with enquiries and taking on increasing levels of responsibility. His hard work and development saw him promoted to Assistant Practice Manager in April 2024, less than two years after first entering the profession.

What advice would you give to someone looking to start their career as a junior clerk?

“I have been a clerk now for 4 years and I have not lost love for the industry. If you are looking for a job in the centre of London and to be involved in the Law Sector but are not interested in attending University to become a barrister, then becoming a clerk is a great job for you. You have the opportunity to meet lots of interesting people, whether that be fellow clerks, barristers, solicitors, or court staff. 

You get to be part of a team and work together to get the best for Chambers and work your way up through the ranks as you progress.”