In Conversation With William Peake
For those who haven't come across your work before, how would you describe what you do?
My name is William Peake, Global Managing Partner at Harneys. My role is to set the cultural and strategic agenda of an international law firm across 12 offices.
What's something people often misunderstand about your profession?
That all lawyers are greedy, narcissistic and only in it for the money. The people I work with genuinely care about seeing their clients thrive and make incredible sacrifices for them. People see a glamorous lifestyle, not the midnight oil, the 2 a.m. meeting rooms, takeaway food, stress and working through difficult issues.
Is there a city you always enjoy returning to?
Without offending everyone in the network, Hong Kong and Bermuda. Hong Kong is vibrant: the food, smells, culture, drive and energy are amazing. The managing partner there is also a good friend and an incredible host. Bermuda is quaint and English in style, with a huge financial services network, great people and some of the best beaches and golf courses in the world, although I'm always in the office, obviously, so I've only read about those.
Where do you do your best thinking: at home, in the office, or somewhere in transit?
Running. I don't run with music. During the week, I set myself a business problem and think about it intentionally and deliberately. At weekends, I think about Everton winning the Champions League. My best thinking is when I'm walking, running or exercising.
In an increasingly digital world, why do face-to-face meetings still matter?
Humans communicate through words and body language. On a video call, you can curate a rectangle of perfection and share almost nothing about yourself; in person, you create real bonds. There is no substitute. I'm all for flexible working, but juniors learn far more in an office environment because they learn by osmosis, which is the best type of learning.
What's the most valuable relationship or opportunity that began with a conversation in person?
On a flight from Cayman to New York, I helped an elderly lady make her connection to Toronto. She wrote her name on the back of an envelope and later sent me a handwritten letter thanking me. It turned out she was from an uber-wealthy family with work in Cayman, and she became a client of the firm, all from starting a conversation on a flight.
After years of travelling for work, what's the one habit you've never compromised on?
I don't drink alcohol on planes anymore. I drink tonnes of water and, as soon as I land, I start moving, whether that's a long walk or a light jog, and try to get sunlight on my face. I don't eat plane food either; I bring fruit.
How does the way you pack differ for business travel versus personal travel?
For business trips, I pack for modularity: a smart navy blazer, grey flannels, two or three smart shirts and three white T-shirts. I also bring running gear and wash it myself. I refuse to pay hotel laundry prices.
You've travelled with several ÉMIGRÉ products. What stood out to you most?
Without a doubt, the turtleneck sweater. I wore it non-stop, even after the weather changed, as it’s so breathable. Unbelievably comfortable, goes with everything, looks smart at work and great in a restaurant afterwards. It's genuinely the most durable item.
What's your best tip for staying productive while travelling?
Avoid Old Fashioneds in the airport lounge.
Rapid fire
Carry-on only or checked luggage? I try to do carry-on only, but sometimes fail miserably.
Favourite airline? Cathay Pacific. They sort everything out; they're immense.
Favourite city to visit on a work trip? Hong Kong or New York.
Go-to travel gear? The ÉMIGRÉ Chair Merino Roll Neck and Common Projects.
Plane or train? Plane.
On a long-haul flight: sleep, work, films or books? Books and work. I try to avoid watching TV and use the time to catch up.
Early flight or red-eye? Red-eye. It always leaves on time because it's the first one out of the station.
First thing you do when you land? Try to get some sunlight.
Best jet lag tip? Tonnes of water, sunlight and exercise.
After all your travels, what's one thing you know now that you wish you'd known sooner?
You have no control over the travel process. The sooner you make peace with that and be stoic about it, the better. I'm still the 'I can't believe this is happening' merchant, but I've got better at it over the years. You just don't know what's meant to be.