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Sam Leigh
Head of Legal, Zedra UK
Professional Background
Sam Leigh is a distinguished legal professional with an impressive career spanning multiple prestigious organizations across various sectors. Currently serving as the Head of Legal at ZEDRA Group, Sam has demonstrated exceptional leadership and legal expertise, positioning the firm as a key player in trust and fiduciary services. His current role involves overseeing legal matters within the organization, ensuring compliance with regulations, and providing strategic legal advice to enhance operational effectiveness.
Prior to his tenure at ZEDRA Group, Sam was the Vice President at Barclays Bank Trust Company Limited, where he played a crucial role in managing complex legal issues pertaining to trust management and wealth services. His extensive experience in the banking sector has equipped him with a profound understanding of financial regulations and the legal intricacies involved in trust and asset management.
Sam's career trajectory also includes a significant position as an Associate at Appleby, a leading offshore law firm, where he honed his legal skills in corporate law and found solutions for clients navigating the complexities of international business. Additionally, he began his professional journey at AXA Isle of Man as a Technical Officer, showcasing his versatility and commitment to mastering the intricacies of corporate operations. His initial foray into the financial services sector started at Royal Skandia as a Sales Support member, where he gained invaluable insights into customer relations and market dynamics.
Education and Achievements
Sam Leigh’s academic background is as impressive as his professional journey. He studied History and Politics at Queen's University Belfast, acquiring a strong foundation in critical thinking, analysis, and a comprehensive understanding of socio-political contexts that influence today’s legal frameworks. Building upon this foundational knowledge, he went on to study Law at The Manchester Metropolitan University, where he deepened his understanding of legal principles and honed his analytical abilities, enabling him to tackle complex legal scenarios throughout his career.
Achievements
Throughout his career, Sam has made significant contributions to the legal and financial sectors. As Head of Legal at ZEDRA Group, he has not only provided legal guidance but has also led initiatives aimed at improving internal processes to streamline compliance and enhance efficiency. His strategic vision and operational insight have been instrumental in positioning ZEDRA as a leader in trust services.
During his time at Barclays, his leadership helped navigate numerous regulatory changes, ensuring that the company remained compliant while also proactively managing risk. His collaboration with various stakeholders has been critical in fostering positive relationships and building trust within the organization.
Sam's varied roles at Appleby provided him with significant exposure to multinational clients, allowing him to develop an international perspective on legal practice. This experience has enhanced his ability to understand diverse client needs and tailor legal solutions accordingly, further establishing his reputation as a reliable and knowledgeable legal expert.
Sam’s pursuit of excellence is evident in his continuous professional development. He stays abreast of changes in legislation and market trends, ensuring that he provides the most relevant and effective legal counsel to his clients and colleagues. His commitment to lifelong learning underscores his dedication to his profession and his desire to lead with integrity and expertise.