Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Languages
Timeline
Generic

Zain Sheikh

United Kingdom

Summary

Professional Summary

Ambitious and commercially aware final-year LLB Law student at Aston University, on track for a 2:1, with a strong interest in commercial litigation, white-collar crime, intellectual property, and banking law. Equipped with a solid academic background, including top-level distinctions in Business, Finance, and Marketing, and 12 GCSEs (grades 8–5).

Proven ability to apply legal knowledge in practical contexts through placements and virtual internships at Pinsent Masons, and a shadowing placement with a defence barrister. Skilled in legal research, case analysis, client communication, and document drafting, with exposure to criminal, commercial, and IP law.

Currently working in operations management at Aston Villa Football Club, demonstrating strong leadership, adaptability, time management, and stakeholder coordination in high-pressure event environments. Experienced in balancing academic, professional, and extracurricular commitments, with a proactive and solution-driven approach to legal practice.

Actively seeking paralegal or legal administrative roles as a stepping stone toward a training contract and SQE qualification in 2026. Committed to contributing to a progressive, client-focused commercial law firm.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience

Work history

Operations Management

Aston Villa Football Club
Birmingham, West midlands
01.2022 - Current
  • Assisted junior managers in daily operations management, improving overall operational efficiency.
  • Delegated tasks effectively for maximum efficiency in operations management.
  • Maintained accurate records of all bookings and correspondences, aiding efficient operations management.
  • Documented service records meticulously, aiding smooth operations management.
  • Trained team members on best practices in operations management, boosting overall performance levels.
  • Communicated effectively on all levels to facilitate effective operations management.
  • Maintained open channels of communication with stakeholders for transparent operations management.
  • Executed onsite operations management, maintaining high productivity levels.

Shadowing, Criminal a Defence Barrister

Birmingham Magistrates Court
Birmingham, West Midlands
06.2024 - 08.2024
  • Attended court hearings alongside senior solicitors, understanding courtroom procedures thoroughly.
  • Conducted thorough legal research to support senior solicitors' case preparations.
  • Enhanced efficiency by streamlining office processes and protocols.
  • Collaborated with colleagues on intricate cases for delivering comprehensive solutions.
  • Participated in client meetings, gaining valuable insight into real-life law practice.
  • Received positive feedback from clients for displaying sensitivity during difficult times.
  • Maintained open lines of communication between clients and senior solicitors for seamless coordination.
  • Shadowed lawyers to understand workloads, case management and network development.
  • Liaised with clients to understand their legal needs, providing tailored advice accordingly.

Pins & Masons White Collar Crimes Division

Forage Online Work Experience
Birmingham, West Midlands
02.2024 - 02.2024
  • Gained exposure to high-profile corporate investigations involving fraud, bribery, and money laundering.
  • Developed insight into the role of commercial solicitors in advising businesses on managing criminal exposure and reputational risk.
  • Collaborated with peers on case study tasks, honing teamwork, time management, and professional communication skills in a legal context.
  • Analysed key legislation and case law related to white collar offences, including the Bribery Act 2010 and Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
  • Drafted mock internal investigation summaries and compliance reports under supervision, reflecting practical legal reasoning and attention to detail.
  • Participated in virtual workshops simulating client advisory on anti-corruption policies and due diligence practices.

Pins & Masons Intellectual Property Team

Forage Online Work Experience
Birmingham , West Midlands
01.2024 - 01.2024
  • Gained insight into the role of commercial solicitors working in IP law, including trademark registration, brand protection strategies, and IP litigation.
  • Completed virtual tasks simulating the drafting of cease and desist letters and client memos on infringement risks.
  • Analysed case studies on global IP disputes and provided written reflections on commercial implications for clients.
  • Demonstrated attention to detail and legal reasoning through reviewing sample contracts for IP clauses and identifying potential risks.
  • Improved commercial awareness by researching the impact of AI and technology on IP rights and enforcement strategies.

Education

GCSEs - 12 GCSES Acquired

Saint John Wall
Birmingham
09.2015 - 07.2020

A-Levels / Level 3 - Business, Marketing, Finance

Joseph Chamberlain College
Birmingham
09.2020 - 07.2022

Law LLB - Law

Aston University
Birmingham
09.2022 -

Skills

Planning & Initiative shown -

Demonstrated strong planning and adaptability as part of Aston Villa's Operations and Logistics team, where last-minute changes to event schedules required swift reallocation of rooms, staff, and resources Frequently responded to urgent needs—such as restocking refrigeration units and preparing hospitality areas—within tight timeframes, showcasing the ability to think proactively, prioritise tasks under pressure, and execute plans efficiently

Client Communication & Relationship Management -

Built rapport with clients during barrister shadowing placement, demonstrating sensitivity, discretion, and clear communication in high-pressure legal environments

Teamwork -

Organised and led multiple charity events, including a successful college bake sale to raise funds for Water Aid, supporting deprived regions in Kenya Collaborated with a team to plan logistics, ensure timely procurement and appropriate pricing of products, and meet strict deadlines The event raised the highest amount of donations among participating groups, demonstrating strong teamwork, planning, and execution skills

Time Management & Organisation-

Balanced academic commitments with part-time employment and multiple legal placements, consistently meeting tight deadlines

Attention to Detail-

Demonstrated by drafting legal documents, reviewing contracts for IP risks, maintaining meticulous service records, and managing sensitive event logistics

Commercial Awareness-

Strengthened through Pinsent Masons' white-collar crime and IP virtual experiences, with a focus on fraud, AI in IP law, and risk management in corporate settings

Legal Research & Drafting-

Developed during shadowing and virtual internships; conducted in-depth research, analysed legislation (eg Bribery Act 2010, POCA 2002), and drafted mock compliance reports, internal investigations, and client memos







Languages

English
Native
Urdu
Fluent

Timeline

Shadowing, Criminal a Defence Barrister

Birmingham Magistrates Court
06.2024 - 08.2024

Pins & Masons White Collar Crimes Division

Forage Online Work Experience
02.2024 - 02.2024

Pins & Masons Intellectual Property Team

Forage Online Work Experience
01.2024 - 01.2024

Law LLB - Law

Aston University
09.2022 -

Operations Management

Aston Villa Football Club
01.2022 - Current

A-Levels / Level 3 - Business, Marketing, Finance

Joseph Chamberlain College
09.2020 - 07.2022

GCSEs - 12 GCSES Acquired

Saint John Wall
09.2015 - 07.2020
Zain Sheikh