Personal Profiles, Professional Insights Eve Piffaretti, Head of Office Wales & Partner, Public Law & Regulatory

She says, “where they feel supported, seen, and able to bring their whole selves to work.”

Outside work, Eve embraces the outdoors, whether cycling to the office, braving sea swims at the weekend, escaping in her campervan, or exploring the Welsh countryside with her husband and dogs.

We spoke to Eve about her legal career, her leadership philosophy, and what excites her about the future of law in Wales.

What first drew you to law?

I wasn’t set on a career in law, but an O-level in the British Constitution sparked something in me. Studying drama gave me confidence and helped me communicate clearly, skills that became invaluable in my advocacy work and beyond. A careers advisor told me law wasn’t a good idea for me, which motivated me. I took it as a personal challenge to prove him wrong!

What led you to specialise in public and regulatory law?

It was a natural evolution. I began my career in litigation, focusing on personal injury and clinical negligence cases for the NHS and trade unions. Over time, I moved into more advisory work, supporting clients on risk, regulation and governance.

I became interested in the development of the law, specifically, how legislation evolves and how we interpret and apply it. This led to work on the Encyclopedia of Social Services and Childcare Law, followed by editing the Mental Capacity Act Manual.

I now also annotate legislation; it’s detailed work, but I love the rigour and the way it helps practitioners and the courts alike.

What have been some of the standout moments in your leadership role?

Being appointed as Head of Office was an honour and a real opportunity to shape a culture that’s always been inclusive and forward-looking. I’ve worked part-time since my children were young – since 2003, in fact – and I’m proud that flexible working is now an integral part of how we operate.

During the pandemic, my husband was treated for cancer, and my mum was diagnosed with dementia. The firm’s support was unwavering throughout.

You’ve always combined fee-earning with broader work. Why is that important to you?

Because the law doesn’t stand still, it’s shaped by society, by politics, by people. That’s why I’ve always stayed close to policy. I sit on national advisory boards, and I’ve taught law at Cardiff University for many years. Teaching keeps you sharp (students ask excellent questions!) and it helps bridge the gap between theory and practice. It’s also part of my commitment to the next generation: sharing knowledge, supporting others, and making law more accessible.

You’ve spearheaded initiatives on social value and inclusion across the firm. What motivates you?

That’s why I’ve championed programmes like Growing Ambitions and Open Your Eyes Week, and why I’m passionate about apprenticeships. I’ve seen how transformational those pathways can be. Some of our most capable, confident colleagues have come through non-traditional routes. It’s not just good for them, it’s good for the profession.

You recently won the Leadership Award at the Wales Legal Awards. What did that recognition mean to you?

It was a complete surprise. I hadn’t put myself forward, so to be nominated by colleagues meant a great deal.

The award also felt like recognition of the team. We’ve built a strong, collaborative and caring culture here in Cardiff, and that doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s very much a shared success.

Award winning: Eve Piffaretti (centre) receiving the Leadership Award at the Legal News Wales Awards 2025. Photo courtesy of Matthew Horwood.

What advice would you give to young people considering law?

Stay curious, be creative, and seize opportunities, even if they don’t come in the form you expected. That’s how my career has evolved. I’ve never followed a rigid plan, but I’ve always said yes to things that sparked my interest or challenged me. Build relationships with colleagues, clients, and mentors. Embrace change, because the profession is constantly evolving. And be kind.

How do you make space for life outside work?

I cycle to work; it clears my head. I do CrossFit twice a week with my husband, and we take our campervan down to Cornwall as much as we can. I spend Fridays with my mum, who has dementia, doing her shopping and just sitting with her. I love the outdoors and am happiest when paddleboarding, sea swimming, or walking my dogs Zeb and Salka. Being in nature helps me reset.

What excites you about the future of law in Wales?

So much. The legal landscape in Wales is distinct and constantly evolving. We’ve pioneered initiatives such as opt-out organ donation and the Future Generations Act. Wales is small enough to pilot new ideas and ways of doing things, and I want to keep advocating for that kind of innovation. I’m especially interested in how we embed sustainability, equity and well-being into the legal profession itself. That’s what meaningful growth looks like, and that’s what I’m privileged to be part of here at Blake Morgan.