Arguably the most vital of all non-lawyers, executive assistants are the unsung heroes of the legal industry, with their ability to ensure the fast-paced lives of time-poor lawyers run as smoothly as possible often going unrecognised.

"My job is wide-ranging. I support Gavin one-on-one so he's my main focus. I help him run the business and make sure his day runs as smoothly as possible and help out with whatever he needs," says Patmore, who's been an assistant at Freehills for eight years.

"Of course, working for a CEO everything is urgent. You have to look at what is the most urgent and what needs doing at that time, and that can change in a matter of five minutes. Like everyone, all they want to know is that you've taken it on and that you're going to deal with it. They just want action."

For Patmore, the most enjoyable part of the demanding role is the teamwork aspect.

"You need to deal with a lot of different people to find the right way to get the outcome you need and make the day run as smoothly as possible," she says, noting the close working relationship she has with other EAs in the industry. "It's five minute phone calls here and there. We're all trying to get the same outcome, so everyone's helpful."