Philip
Scott

Phil is a Partner at Walker Morris, known for solving complex legal issues in a commercial and pragmatic way. With over 20 years of experience, Phil acts on the full range of finance transactions, including corporate finance, acquisition finance, real estate financings (both development and investment) and asset backed lending.

Phil says “the part of my job I really enjoy is explaining complex legal issues to clients in a simple way and then working with them to put in place commercial and practical solutions”, and he advises on both complex international transactions as well as more simple regional deals.

Complex issues made simple

Getting deals done successfully with “the minimum amount of fuss or drama” is an aspect of the job that Phil finds particularly rewarding, and his strong understanding of finance legal issues means he can convey what needs to be said simply and clearly. This no-nonsense way of working is one his clients appreciate, and ensures he can lead transactions to be completed on time, with minimal hassle for all concerned.

Down to earth and commercial

Describing his approach to client work as down to earth and commercial, Phil also believes that pragmatism and a conciliatory outlook are key – not least because once a finance transaction completes, the parties involved often go on to work together for many years. “It’s essential to remember the importance of this ongoing relationship when transacting a financing” he says, “this means ensuring your client’s position is protected, but that the key relationship between lender and borrower is also strengthened by the transaction”.

A degree in history and an interest in business led Phil to law school, and he joined Walker Morris in 2021 after 20 years at Pinsent Masons. A good communicator, Phil’s open and approachable manner is well respected and is well matched for life at Walker Morris.

“I always wanted to practice corporate law and the transactional nature of finance law suited my character – I like to focus intently on something for a short period and then move on to the next project”.