CEELM: What would you say was the most challenging project you ever worked on and why?

Borbely: I simply cannot name the most challenging one because challenges are not similar and can come from various angles of the transactional advisory work during your career. In the earlier days of my career, the challenges came from how to deal with massive documentation, complex legal drafting, and managing multiparty transactions. Time pressure and the need for setting and resetting priorities were the key challenges of my work as a senior associate. Later on, most challenges come from the business angle of the profession and the fact that you are responsible for others.

CEELM: What was your main takeaway from these challenges?

Borbely: Personal relationships will be able to get you through as much as being a skilled lawyer. Never assume that someone else will read the paper if you don’t; they will not. The attitude of your colleagues is the best motivator; keeping up the good spirit helps you to get over the line. Keep your promises, better say I will try and do my best if there is a chance that you will not get where you wanted to. Credibility is the most precious treasure in the long run.

CEELM: What is one thing clients likely don’t know about you?

Borbely: I won the Hungarian national secondary school history competition (OKTV) in 1995 at age 17. I remain interested in history, especially the 20^th-century history of Hungary. I will always be thankful to my teacher, Istvan Sarkozy.

CEELM: Name one mentor who played a big role in your career and how they impacted you.

Borbely: Many teachers shaped my academic life and prepared me for a professional career, but Catherine Jackson, my English literature teacher at UWC Atlantic College, stands out in terms of impact. I’ll always remember studying marvellous pieces of literature like Hamlet, The Birthday Party, and Waiting for Godot in her classes. Catherine emphasized the importance of examining every detail and every word, but also at the same time looking beyond what is visible, metaphors, and symbols. I do try to exercise this approach in my profession and my advisory work. I am attentive to details but also try to keep in mind the wider picture and the strategic objectives ahead of us.

CEELM: Name one mentee you are particularly proud of.

Borbely: I would mention Barbara Csaszar, Senior Associate from our banking team at DLA Piper Hungary. She has been working with us and closely with me from her very first days as a trainee, and she is now a highly reputable senior lawyer (also acknowledged by international directories). She combines top technical expertise with excellent interpersonal skills. I especially commend her swift and highly successful return to the profession after maternity leave.

CEELM: What is the one piece of advice you’d give yourself fresh out of law school?

Borbely: One key consideration in a professional career should be the influence and impact of the people with whom you spend your time at work. Colleagues have a significant impact on both personal and professional development, finding space, dynamics, and making good decisions, staying focused and cheerful. Since much time is devoted to work, it is very relevant to consider the quality of human relationships we are exposed to. Values do matter.