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CASE STUDY • Tamworth Office • staffordshire
Natalie Parboo
Senior Account Relationship Executive • New Business
Natalie's journey at GloverPriest Solicitors reflects a natural progression into business development, where her dedication to building strong professional relationships and supporting the firm's growth has led her to become a key member of the team as Senior Account Relationship Executive.
Joined March 2019
Account Relationships
New Business Team
Developing Opportunities
Networking
Growth
"I often describe myself as a cheerleader for GloverPriest because I genuinely believe in the people I work with, the culture we’ve built, and the experience we deliver to clients."
My journey into business development was a natural evolution. I began in a sales-focused role within the new business team at GloverPriest, working closely with conveyancing leads and building relationships with estate agents and mortgage brokers.
When I transitioned into business development, those relationships were already there; my role simply expanded to focus on growing them, strengthening them, and creating new opportunities.
I often describe myself as a “cheerleader” for GloverPriest because I genuinely believe in the people I work with, the culture we’ve built, and the experience we deliver to clients. When I’m out meeting businesses, attending events, or having informal conversations, I’m sharing real insight into what it’s actually like to work at the firm.
What Does a Career in Business Development Look Like at GloverPriest?
Today, my role is incredibly varied. It involves analysing where work is coming from, identifying opportunities for growth, maintaining existing partnerships, and actively building new ones. Some days are spent reviewing data and performance; others are spent out meeting contacts, visiting offices, or attending networking events.
That balance between strategy and human interaction is what defines the role for me, and what makes it so impactful.
Why Do Relationships Sit at the Heart of the Firm’s Growth?
I place a strong emphasis on creating partnerships that last not just months, but years. I’ve seen firsthand how some of the firm’s existing relationships have been nurtured over decades, and that has shaped my own approach. For me, the aim isn’t simply to bring in new work; it’s to build connections that are mutually beneficial and sustainable.
That means understanding what other businesses need, not just what we want as a firm. Whether I’m working with estate agents, brokers, or other referrers, there is always a focus on alignment shared values, shared expectations, and a shared commitment to delivering the best outcome for clients.
When those elements are in place, the process becomes seamless. Communication improves, trust strengthens, and the overall client experience benefits as a result. It reinforces the idea that strong relationships are not just good for business; they are essential to it.
What Does Day-to-Day Collaboration Feel Like?
While much of my role involves being out of the office, my connection to the internal team remains constant. Collaboration is a key part of how I operate, and it’s something deeply embedded in the firm’s culture.
I work closely with multiple teams, including new business, fee earners, and leadership. We regularly communicate about capacity, priorities, and opportunities to ensure everyone stays aligned. This level of coordination allows me to tailor my efforts effectively bringing in work where it’s needed and supporting teams in a way that feels intentional rather than reactive.
What stands out to me most is the sense of shared responsibility. I may be the one generating leads and building relationships externally, but my role only works because of the people behind the scenes. The quality of the legal work, the client care, and the consistency of service all contribute to the reputation I’m promoting.
How Does Working in the Office Strengthen Performance?
Even in a role that involves significant time out meeting people, the office environment remains an important anchor for me. Being in the office gives me direct access to the teams I represent. It allows me to stay closely connected to what’s happening across the business understanding workloads, hearing feedback, and maintaining a clear picture of how the firm operates day to day.
That insight is essential when I’m speaking to external contacts because it ensures that what I communicate is accurate and aligned with reality.
The office also strengthens relationships internally. Regular interaction with colleagues creates a sense of unity and shared purpose, making collaboration more effective. It ensures that when opportunities arise externally, they can be supported internally without friction.
What Makes the Culture at GloverPriest Stand Out?
For me, the defining feature of the firm is its people. I would describe the environment as supportive, welcoming, and genuinely collaborative. From my very first day, I felt part of a team rather than an individual trying to navigate a new workplace. That sense of belonging has remained consistent throughout my seven years at the firm.
Support plays a huge role in that experience. Whether it’s guidance from leadership, collaboration with colleagues, or encouragement from peers, there’s a clear sense that people genuinely want each other to succeed. Achievements are recognised, efforts are acknowledged, and there’s a shared enthusiasm for progress. That creates an environment where people feel motivated to perform at their best.
How Does the Firm Support Career Growth and Progression?
My own career progression reflects the opportunities available within the firm. Moving from a sales role into business development wasn’t the result of a rigid structure, but of potential being recognised and supported.
One of the biggest factors for me has been trust. I’ve been given the autonomy to develop my role, explore new ideas, and take ownership of my work, which has allowed me to grow both professionally and personally. That trust is reinforced by consistent support knowing guidance is there when I need it, but without unnecessary oversight.
Why Does Feeling Valued Make Such a Difference?
A recurring theme throughout my experience has been the importance of appreciation. Recognition plays a huge role in motivation. Knowing that hard work is seen and valued creates a real sense of purpose and encourages continued effort. That’s especially important in business development, where success is not always immediate and often requires persistence.
At GloverPriest, appreciation is shown in both formal and informal ways. Feedback is given, achievements are celebrated, and there’s a culture of encouragement across the entire team. Importantly, that support isn’t limited to one department it’s something that runs consistently throughout the firm.