By Business & Finance 
Killian O’Reilly is Partner and Head of Litigation and Dispute Resolution at European law firm, Fieldfisher. O’Reilly is a highly experienced litigator with over twenty years’ experience in the industry.
What was your first job?
These days it might be described as Junior Store Administrator. In my day, it was “boy with sweeping brush” in Ballyjamesduff.
What pushed you to pursue a career in this field?
Two things. My father’s determination that I would not follow him into a career as a vet and his remark that “a solicitor will always be able to meet the bills.”
What would you regard as your greatest achievement to date?
I find it hard to pinpoint just one thing, however, I think growing the litigation practice in Fieldfisher and seeing our younger team members thrive is something I’m particularly proud of, both on a personal and professional level.
Career wise, would you do anything differently?
Not so far. I love the variety and every day is a challenge!
In one sentence, how would you define success?
Success to me is knowing that even in the most challenging of circumstances, you showed up and gave your all to achieve the best possible outcome.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
It’s corny, but the best advice that I have ever received is to treat others how you would like them to treat you.
Followed closely by “every day is a school day.” The day you stop learning, you’re goosed!
How do you motivate yourself and your staff?
I am really lucky to work with a terrific team in Fieldfisher. I find that recognising their achievements and trying to set a good example works for me.
How do you handle adversity?
By accepting that life is a series of challenges and adversity is part of that but that it’s generally temporary and when you overcome adversity, more often than not, you come out stronger on the other side.
How do you relax?
Cycling and swimming.
What are your aspirations for the future of the business?
We’ve come through a significant period of growth since becoming part of the Fieldfisher network, and I would like to see that continue long into the future.
Our teams are growing fast, and we really value the energy that our younger solicitors bring to the table, so my ambition would be to continue our growth in the Irish market, and strengthen even further our commitment to clients across wide and varied sectors.
