The Five Minute Interview with Eddie Goldsmith, Partner, Goldsmith Williams

By Tony Sanchez 19th April 2012

Goldsmith Williams was founded in 1984 by Edward Goldsmith and Christopher Williams. In 1986 Simon Cottrell joined the firm as its third partner.

The firm operates from the former Harrison Line Shipping Group offices, a Grade II listed building on Liverpool’s world famous waterfront.

Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) under number 48089, Goldsmith Williams is one of the UK’s leading national law firms specialising in property, wills and probate, personal injury and equity release.

The firm prides itself in offering straightforward legal advice in plain English, delivered by dedicated legal teams comprising experienced solicitors, legal executives and specially trained telephone support assistants.

We speak to partner Eddie Goldsmith:

What is the best thing about being in the bridging finance business?

Its a small industry with really committed professionals which is growing and which Goldsmith Williams want to be a player in.

What keeps you focussed?

Compliance always keeps me focused – these days its not just about giving the client the right advice its also being able to demonstrate it years after!

Unfortunately the World we live in is litigious and as a professional I have to make sure I can back up my advice at all times.

What qualities do you look for in your employees or colleagues?

There is no alternative to having properly skilled employees – particularly in the legal professional.

Although we do volume work every client is different and it is ultra important that we can pick up any nuance of concern when we speak to clients – that takes quality staff. In a large organisation you have to be able to rely on what your staff do and say – and there is no substitute for skilled staff to make sure that happens.

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

I’m in sales so I’m an optimist – always. I find the kill of getting new work the real buzz which gets me up in the morning – and long may that continue.

What did you want to be as a child?

Actually it wasn’t a train driver and definitely not a lawyer – it was to be Rick Nelsons Assistant – he was an early Jack Cousteau on Black and White TV!

What will be the greatest challenge facing the bridging finance industry in the coming months?

There are always challenges in any business – in bridging it could be funding lines, the method of funding, increased competition and of course the good old FSA!

Who or what makes you laugh?

I love dry humour – so the likes of Larry David on Curb Your Enthusiasm is a favourite but anyone who is a professional comedian ( bar the smutty ones which don’t rock my boat ) has my respect and admiration.

Do you dread Monday mornings?

Only as much as the Boomtown Rats!!

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

My age.

With whom would you most like to have dinner?

As a scouser it would have to be John Lennon – my eldest brother knew him briefly at Quarry Bank School, but a dinner date would be great!!