Unlocking a career in law: Vivienne Kalilangwe’s CILEX success 

As Summer pulls to a close and the new term begins, it’s not only school students who are celebrating exam results and starting the next chapter of their education. As CTT’s own Vivienne Kalilangwe says, “Learning doesn’t stop, no matter what age you are!”  

Vivienne, a dedicated Senior Conveyancing Administrator at CTT, has recently passed her Property and Private Client exam as part of her CILEX Foundation course. CTT proudly sponsored Vivienne’s training after she successfully applied to our professional development scheme. Making the most of this opportunity, Vivienne was able to get stuck into her law studies with no prior experience, proving that passion and commitment can open doors to new career paths! 

From career break to an entry level law job 

Before joining CTT, Vivienne had taken a career break for personal reasons. Though her previous experience was outside of the legal field, Vivienne had acquired essential interpersonal skills and customer service experience, as well as making sure she maintained her IT skills. 

“It’s hard to explain just how well-placed and well-timed this job was,” Vivienne says. Wanting to return to work, she found our vacancy for a Conveyancing Administrator—assisting the Conveyancing team by drafting documents and answering client queries, for example. It was the perfect opportunity to get into law with no experience. “I was particularly drawn to CTT because of their staff development scheme; it’s open to everybody to apply,” Vivienne explains. 

Still, a leap onto a completely new career path was understandably daunting: “When I first started, I wasn’t sure I’d make it through the first week! But the support I received from the conveyancing team and colleagues across departments has been amazing.” 

Spurred on by this encouragement, Vivienne applied for our development scheme, even braving her first ever presentation. “I practised it almost constantly for two or three days!” she recalls. The opportunity was worth the nerves though. “I wanted to pursue my CILEX studies while working. I knew it wouldn’t be easy but I wanted to gain the knowledge I need to excel in my job.” 

This level of dedication to her role has seen Vivienne quickly become a valuable team member. Her strong communication skills, exceptional customer service, and eagerness to learn have made her an ideal fit at CTT. 

Thriving through collaboration 

Vivienne’s studies have already benefited our Conveyancing Department. While preparing for an exam, she encountered an unfamiliar legal interpretation and sought guidance from her colleagues. This collaboration led to a valuable discovery that the entire team can now adopt and utilise in their work. 

CTT’s collaborative environment is something Vivienne really values. “There’s so much to learn in the legal sector, and it’s always evolving,” she says. What makes it easier at CTT is the ability to reach out to experts in various fields, whether it’s probate, trusts, accountancy, law or more. You can just knock on someone’s door and find the answer you need—all under one roof.” 

Reflecting on her journey, Vivienne shares, “Working and studying wasn’t part of my original plan, but life has a way of surprising you. CTT has been incredibly supportive of my journey, not just in my job role, but also in my personal life. This job came at the perfect time in my life—it might sound like a cliché, but it’s true. CTT has given me the chance to return to work, to learn more about this sector, and most importantly, they’ve had faith in me. For all of this, I’m incredibly thankful.”  

As Vivienne prepares for her final round of examinations in January, we’re confident in her continued success. She has already proven to be an incredible asset to CTT, and we wish her the very best of luck as she moves forward! 

How can you get into law with no previous legal experience  

Looking to follow in Vivienne’s footsteps?   

At CTT Group, we’re always on the lookout for new talent to support and develop our teams in law, finance, estate planning and accounting. Check our current vacancies for any entry level jobs in law; we’re always open to applications from driven, passionate people!  

Alternatively, if you think being self-employed might be the better route for you, CTT Group offers a “Be Your Own Boss” programme, training and supporting you to build your own estate planning business.  

For any other questions, we’re only a contact form away! Get in touch.