Nancy Steidl

What is your current role?

I founded the business mission. I am an international business consultant and intellectual property law specialist in AI, Robotic and Big Data. I am also a business author publishing a business book.

Which organisation do you work for?

the business mission

What motivated you to pursue the LLM?

I decided to pursue an LLM in International Business Law because I have had an interest in how law shapes global business. Over time, I realised I enjoyed legal issues which span across different countries and cultures, especially in the world of intellectual property.

I want to be able to understand the ins and outs of international business law, from trade regulations to dispute resolution and feel more confident in understanding the legal challenges which companies face when they go global.

This LLM felt like the perfect way to build on my passion and expertise while opening up new opportunities to work in a field which is both dynamic and growing.

What were you doing before studying the LLM?

I’ve always been an entrepreneur. Over the years, I’ve run a variety of businesses, from a newspaper and PR agency to an events company and even owning a jazz bar. Through these ventures, I developed a strong understanding of business operations, negotiation, and strategy.

One moment which stood out to me was at a networking event where I was speaking to a lady about securing contracts for her business. As I was offering advice, it hit me that with the right legal qualifications, I could not only advise her more effectively, but I could also offer solid, actionable support.

This moment made me realise that to truly help others in the business world and protect my own ventures, an LLM in International Business Law would be the perfect next step.

What are you doing now? How did The City Law School prepare you for your current role?

After completing my LLM, I went on to pursue an MBA to further develop my business acumen. Right now, I’m also studying for a Master’s Degree in International Intellectual Property Law, as I’m keen to specialise in this area as well. I also continue to study part-time courses in law and IP in the AI field.

In addition, I run my international business consultancy, where I help aspiring international entrepreneurs launch their own ventures, offering guidance from the legal to the practical side of starting a business.

I also help existing international businesses and owners with restructuring their business if there have been issues in their business. On top of this, I’m on the SQE route to get qualified as a solicitor, currently working in a law firm to gain my two years of qualifying work experience.

Recently, I also published a business book, The Art of Analogies in Business: How to Start a Business in Layman’s Terms. I have another business book coming out in 2026.

The City Law School has been instrumental in shaping my current path. The LLM programme gave me a strong foundation in international business law, equipping me with both the legal knowledge and practical insights needed to deal with global business issues.

It deepened my understanding of how law intersects with business and also developed my critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills—skills I rely on every day in my consultancy and legal work.

What opportunities and experiences did City, University of London offered you whilst you studied, or still offers you?

During my time at City, University of London, I had access to a wide range of opportunities which continue to benefit me even now. One of the key things I appreciated was the chance to stay connected with both faculty and alumni, which has been invaluable in terms of ongoing support and networking.

The seminars and events offered throughout my studies were also incredibly beneficial. They provided a platform for me to engage with experts from the legal and business fields, and I was able to learn from their experiences while expanding my own network.

Even after completing my studies, City continues to offer opportunities for growth. The university’s alumni network is strong, and there are events or talks that I can attend, which help me stay updated on developments in the legal and business worlds. This opportunity about contributing to the university’s outreach initiatives is something I value, as it allows me to give back and potentially inspire future students.

Tell us about student experience in the UK or in London

Studying in the UK, and particularly in London, was a great experience. The city itself offers such a unique blend of culture, history, and professional opportunities, and I appreciated being able to study in such a diverse and vibrant environment. The academic side was challenging, but the support from both the faculty and my peers made it manageable.

Being in London also meant I had access to a wide range of legal, business, and networking events, which enhanced my learning outside of the classroom as well. It was a great balance of hard work and exposure to the wider world of law and business, which I found incredibly enriching.

What was your first role after completing your LLM, and how did the programme prepare you for it?

After finishing my LLM, I didn’t have a "first role" as such, because I was already running my own business consultancy. However, what the LLM did for me was give me the legal credibility to secure a work placement at a law firm, where I’m currently working towards my two years of qualifying work experience for the SQE. The LLM helped me get my foot in the door.

It gave me a deeper understanding of international business law, which has been useful in my own consultancy and also in advising my clients more effectively. Having this solid legal grounding means I can offer more informed, practical advice, particularly around the legal aspects of starting and running a business.

The skills I developed in research, problem-solving, and legal analysis also played a big role in helping me land the placement. In a way, the LLM opened doors I hadn’t even considered at the time, and I’m using what I learned every day.

Did the connections you made during your time at The City Law School open any doors for your career?

The connections I made at The City Law School, especially with my professors, have been supportive and continue to open doors for me. Even after completing the programme, I’m still in touch with several of my lecturers, who have been helpful in offering guidance and advice.

Their expertise and encouragement have been invaluable, particularly when it comes to making key decisions about my next steps in my legal career. These ongoing relationships have also helped me stay connected to the broader legal and business communities, opening up opportunities for collaboration and further learning. The fact I can still reach out to them for advice or insights has been a real benefit in helping me develop professionally.