Five Minutes With: Catherine Kerr, Employment Lawyer

Catherine is one of Primas Law’s longest-standing team members, whose knowledge and expertise in employment law spans across a host of day-to-day advice on general workplace issues. She has particular expertise in employment status and regularly provides advice relating to agencies/agency workers.

Outside of the office, Catherine is a 2nd Dan Black Belt in the art of Shukokai Karate – so you don’t want to get on the wrong side of her!

We sat down with Catherine and asked her a few questions…

What’s your favourite part of your job?

“Definitely the social side of job – I love talking to people and getting to know them. I’m also lucky enough to have a front row seat to watch our clients grow and develop.”

And the least favourite?

“TUPE! It can be an absolute minefield.”

How do you think your role will change over the next five years?

“Goodness, employment law changes on a pretty much 12 month rolling cycle so the next five years will see vast changes. I imagine we will see fewer flexible working requests as more and more employers embrace working from home following the pandemic. I would also like to see more of a focus on women’s health issues in the workplace – a topic I am passionate about. I am delighted to already see a shift in how employers view the menopause (as some women can find menopausal symptoms quite debilitating causing them to leave work.) “

What’s the weirdest employment-law related problem you’ve ever come across?

“I had a client that was owned and run by a husband and wife. One day, the wife approached me for advice about whether she should issue her husband with a disciplinary sanction for smearing jelly on the boardroom table and doing a belly skid across it at the office end-of-year-drinks party. I would share my advice but unfortunately its confidential!”

If you could spend a day with anyone, who would it be?

“One hundred percent, Bear Grylls. He has been to so many different places around the world on some of the most outrageous adventures. I just think he would have some really interesting stories to tell.”

If you weren’t a lawyer, what job would you have?

“Official taster for Cadbury’s chocolate or test-driver for Aston Martin – I would happily do either.”

What’s your secret talent?

“Now that would be telling!

What’s your favourite boxset to binge

“Selling Sunset.”

What’s your favourite website?

“Rightmove – I love window shopping for houses I can’t afford!”

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If you’re experiencing employment related issues and wish to contact Catherine, email her on: catherine.kerr@primaslaw.co.uk