Check out our careers page for current vacancies.
Investing in Leadership: My ILM Level 5 Journey by Nichola Raymond
Posted on: 7th May 2025
Over the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to undertake the ILM Level 5 Certificate in Leadership and Management – a programme that has not only shaped my development as a leader, but also strengthened how I support and influence those around me. Having now submitted my final assignment and awaiting results, I’ve taken time to reflect on the impact this journey has had, not just on me personally, but on my team, my peers and the wider One Legal service.
At One Legal, we are proud to be part of a shared legal service that is grounded in shared purpose and clear values:
- We are Ambitious – delivering a solution-focused, high-quality legal service that helps our clients achieve their goals.
- We are Collaborative – sharing knowledge and supporting each other’s growth in an inclusive, open environment.
- We are Experts – a centre of public sector legal excellence, offering timely, ‘right first time’ legal support.
These values were not just referenced throughout the course, they came to life in every module. Each session pushed me to reflect, challenge myself and think more strategically about how I lead. From recruitment and selection to leading change, influencing others and building high-performing teams, the course provided practical, real-world tools that I’ve been able to bring straight into my work.
More than anything, this has been a journey of dedication and self-awareness. I’ve committed fully to the learning process, embracing the theory, applying the insight and seeing the results, not only in my own confidence, but in the impact I’ve been able to have across our service. It’s deeply rewarding to know that my investment in this work has helped to bring clarity, connection and momentum to those I lead and support.
I’m especially proud of the way this course has brought the extended management team together. Thanks to the vision and support of our Director, Shahzia Daya, we have shared this learning journey, grown closer as leaders and aligned around a common purpose. We are stronger for it! We are more united, more self-aware and more prepared to lead our service through the next chapter, whether that be local government reorganisation, continuous improvement or shaping the future of public sector legal delivery.
Our shared vision at One Legal is simple but powerful:
To provide high quality, solution-focused public sector legal services in a supportive environment where everyone can reach their full potential.
This programme has helped me live that vision and helped others do the same. It has given me the confidence and capability to lead with clarity, champion change and bring out the best in those around me. I’m incredibly proud of the progress we’ve made and excited for what’s ahead.
We’re on the journey together and we’re just getting started!
