Profilbild Anna-Maria Franke
‘What I particularly appreciate is the opportunity to be involved in significant projects, to keep learning and to continuously develop my skills.’

Interview with Anna-Maria Franke, notarial assistant

What is it like to join a prestigious law firm, and what makes working there truly special? Anna-Maria Franke offers fascinating insights into her role as a notary assistant and the team dynamic. In this interview, she discusses the challenges, opportunities for development, and what motivates her in her work day in, day out.

How long have you been with FPS, and how did you come to join us?

I’ve been working at the firm since 1 June 2025. I was looking for a new challenge.

What particularly appealed to you about working in a law firm?

At the time, I was particularly drawn to the professional, performance-driven and responsible working environment, as well as the opportunity to practise law at a very high standard. Working on exciting and challenging projects means it never gets boring, and that is precisely what I found particularly appealing. In doing so, I realised how much I enjoy the combination of legal and strategic thinking, as well as the necessary precision and the variety of tasks.

What makes FPS special?

What I particularly appreciate is that we treat each other as equals here. The flat hierarchies ensure open and direct communication. The projects are incredibly exciting, and our team consists of highly skilled colleagues, so we can learn a lot from one another. This has allowed me to take on more responsibility step by step. Furthermore, the professional onboarding process makes settling in much easier, and further training is not only encouraged but actively supported. In addition, there are regular interesting in-house training sessions as well as great events that strengthen team spirit.

How does your day typically begin and end?

My day usually starts with a delicious cup of coffee. After that, I get an overview of the day – I check my calendar, look at upcoming appointments and go through my emails. I then prioritise my tasks and draw up a to-do list. Throughout the day, I alternate between appointments, meetings and periods of focused work, depending on what needs to be done. Ideally, the day ends with the satisfying feeling of having achieved a lot and being well prepared to start the next working day.

What tasks do you find particularly inspiring?

I really enjoy delving deeply into a matter and developing a compelling solution step by step. I like not just reviewing contracts, but actively shaping them. I also appreciate being involved in preliminary discussions regarding the further drafting of contracts. I enjoy contributing my ideas at an early stage and working together to develop the next steps.

What is the most exciting thing that has happened to you in your professional life so far?

In corporate law, I regularly come across exciting projects such as corporate restructurings and transactions. Recently, I was involved in the restructuring of a bank and had the opportunity to contribute to key contractual documents. It is precisely these kinds of projects that demonstrate just how varied and challenging this field of work is.

What soft skills do you need to be successful?

Good communication and presentation skills, attention to detail and accuracy, a sense of responsibility, forward thinking, and a willingness to take on challenges.

What is the atmosphere like within the team – what makes it special?

Friendly, pleasant and helpful. We get on very well, even outside of work, and chat about both professional and personal matters. We also enjoy the regular lunches organised by the firm.

What can new colleagues look forward to in particular?

Exciting challenges, a great team spirit, professional onboarding and excellent training opportunities.

How does FPS support you with professional development or long-term career progression?

We have a good professional development programme and regular training sessions, but at the same time I’m free to decide for myself which areas I’d like to explore in greater depth. The combination of structured opportunities and the freedom to chart my own course helps me to grow both professionally and personally.

Which skills have you been able to develop in particular since joining?

In the course of my work, I have realised that my professional potential is even greater than I had initially assumed. Working at FPS has shown me how intensively and deeply I can immerse myself in corporate law issues and continuously expand my knowledge. The professional perspective in corporate law is extremely diverse, and I am constantly developing in this area. In particular, I have learnt to keep my cool even when dealing with extensive and complex cases and under time pressure, whilst working even more carefully and precisely.

What are you particularly proud of at FPS?

I am delighted to be part of a large and prestigious law firm in Frankfurt. I feel that my decision to take this path was absolutely the right one, and I see great potential for the future in it. I particularly value the opportunity to contribute to significant projects, to keep learning and to continuously develop myself – because that is exactly what is encouraged and made possible at FPS. I am proud of my decision and can already feel a lasting sense of growth, both professionally and personally.

What motivates you?

I am motivated when I see that my work, for example in drafting contracts, delivers concrete and positive results. Both small steps forward and major successes give me this motivation. I enjoy tackling challenges as part of a team, developing ideas and solutions together, and thus successfully implementing projects. All of this makes my day-to-day work exciting and fulfilling.

How do you unwind from your office routine?

Quite simply: spending time with my family and friends is very important to me. I also enjoy being outdoors in nature, doing sport and getting some fresh air. I also love spending time with animals. That always gives me new energy and puts me in a good mood.