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Feedback digest
This Feedback Digest is based on 34 feedbacks from more than 40 mediations, initially submitted on Tuesday 8th March 2016. The feedback received on Stephen's performance as a mediator reinforce my opinion that he is one of a small handful of mediators who could be categorised as “Elite” mediators. Having reviewed the feedback from participants in Stephen's mediations, worked with and been associated with him for over 15 years, he is without question of doubt a name that should be be included in any list of top mediators being considered for appointment. He is a highly experienced mediator with the primary hallmarks of his success being his exceptional ability to build rapport with the disputing parties and their advocates. This is a quality I have witnessed first hand but also seen mirrored in a great number of the feedbacks provided especially those representing difficult clients and issues. His soft skills include being mindful at all times of the sensitivities, needs and wants of the parties, and giving them space and time to be heard, together with a unique ability to maintain an unbelievably positive attitude to all the issues on the table. Participants feel that he is able to distil things down to a simple fashion for all lay clients to understand and keeps the process flowing which aids the best prospects of success. However, as many of the reviews lay testament to, Stephen is far more than just a good communicator and people person. It is evident that he brings to the mediation process a combination of the understanding of the realities of litigation derived from his experience as a solicitor, coupled with a healthy dose of common sense and a deep and thoughtful appreciation of the theory and practice of mediation. His preparation is known to be meticulous and he is one of the few mediators who reads everything given to him. This helps him assess the best routes to explore in identifying settlement options and managing the personalities around the table. Stephen is considered to be a great listener and an exceptionally skilful and experienced negotiator. He is very diligent and has an incredible passion for his work which is borne out by his high reappointment rate as a mediator. He always follows up and builds on the settlement discussions following the actual day of the mediation. Participants feel that he brings many talents to the mediation table including practical knowledge, innovative techniques and a steely determination not to give up when the odds of a mutually agreed settlement are very small. One of the other key attributes many of the parties who used him as a mediator commented upon is his very hands on and pro-active approach to mediation and that he is much more engaged in the nuts and bolts of the mediation process than many other mediators. Mediation is a tough process requiring commitment, dedication and professionalism, from all attendees, including the mediator. Stephen displays all the expected hallmarks of an experienced and accomplished mediator and negotiator who is committed to finding a solution in the best interests of the parties. That he is a first class gentleman with a sparkling sense of humour, which is often needed during those tough drawn out hours around the negotiating table, is just a bonus...
This feedback digest was last updated 10 March 2016.
This feedback digest was last updated 10 March 2016.