Andrew Lawrence Greystoke has devoted more than four decades of his life to mastering the intricacies of law, finance, and business. Over the course of his career, he has helped both small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) grow, advised companies on financial decisions, and guided numerous professionals as they built their careers. 

His experience spans both the United Kingdom and the United States, where he has worked in some of the most esteemed law firms, financial institutions, and corporate advisory roles. 

Education & Background: The Making of a Trusted Advisor 

Greystoke’s professional journey began with a strong educational foundation. He studied law at Cambridge University, where he earned a Double First, one of the highest academic honors. He then went on to Harvard University, where he completed an LLM degree. 

Instead of following a traditional legal career path, he went a step further by qualifying for both the New York Bar and the English Bar. This allowed him to practice internationally, giving him a unique perspective on global finance and law. 

Early in his professional life, Greystoke trained as a barrister before moving into the financial sector, where he worked as a Corporate Executive at NM Rothschild & Sons Limited. Over the years, he has held leadership positions in prominent banks, financial organizations, and legal practices. 

In 1999, Greystoke founded Atlantic Law, a firm specializing in corporate finance for businesses in the UK and the US. Today, he’s a Director at Pantheon International Advisors, where he guides companies through expansion, financial structuring, and strategic planning. His broad expertise enables him to help businesses navigate risks, seize opportunities, and make well-informed decisions that contribute to their long-term success. 

However, one of his greatest passions is mentorship. Greystoke understands firsthand the value of mentorship and strong leadership because he has been fortunate enough to learn from some of the best minds in his industry. Throughout his career, he has worked closely with professionals at various stages of their careers, helping them develop critical thinking, leadership skills, and industry knowledge. His enthusiasm for education and coaching is perhaps most evident in his time as a professor at Cambridge and UC Berkeley, two of the most respected universities in the world. 

We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Greystoke to discuss the mentors who influenced his career, his views on guiding young professionals, and why he believes mentorship plays a critical role in career development and success.

Who has been the most influential mentor in your career, and what key lessons did they share with you?

One of the most influential mentors in my career was Harold Stassen, former governor of Minnesota and Presidential candidate. I worked for Stassen for a summer while at Harvard, where he taught me valuable lessons about leadership and politics. One of the best pieces of advice I got from him was to tip before service—not after! This generous and trusting approach has defined my philosophy on corporate ethics during my career.

What is your approach to mentoring others in your field or organization?

My approach to mentoring is hands-on and tailored to each individual. I focus on practical skill development, strategic thinking, and professional growth. I provide clear guidance, share real-world insights from my experience in corporate transactions and advisory, and encourage independent problem-solving. I also prioritize fostering confidence and resilience, ensuring mentees can navigate high-pressure environments effectively.

Can you recall a piece of advice that profoundly impacted your career path or perspective?

Yes, one of the best pieces of advice I ever received came from Lord Slynn, my pupil master. He taught me that precision in legal reasoning and clarity in communication are the hallmarks of a truly effective lawyer. This advice has shaped my approach to corporate advisory and transactions ever since.

How do you maintain and nurture relationships with both mentors and mentees?

I maintain relationships through regular check-ins, offering support, and sharing insights. With mentors, I seek guidance and show appreciation. With mentees, I provide encouragement and constructive feedback, fostering mutual growth.

When seeking guidance, what qualities do you prioritize in a mentor or advisor?

I prioritize experience, strategic thinking, honesty, and a willingness to challenge my perspective while providing actionable insights.

In what ways has your mentoring approach adapted or evolved over time?

The incremental importance of the role of education has shaped my mentoring approach, shifting it from a more directive approach to one that encourages independent thinking, adaptability, and strategic problem-solving.

How has mentoring shaped your growth, both personally and professionally?

Mentoring has always been important. I taught at Cambridge and UC Berkeley, which reinforced my ability to distill complex ideas, adapt to diverse perspectives, and lead with clarity.

What strategies do you use to identify promising mentees and support their
development?

I look for curiosity, resilience, and initiative. I support their development by providing tailored guidance, challenging their thinking, and creating opportunities for hands-on learning.

What do you find most fulfilling about serving as a mentor?

The most rewarding part of being a mentor is seeing mentees grow in confidence, refine their thinking, and achieve their goals.

How do you continue to benefit from your past mentors while staying connected with them?

I stay connected with my mentors through regular check-ins and by seeking their insights on key decisions. I also show my appreciation for their guidance by applying their lessons in my daily work.

Looking Ahead

Greystoke’s influence extends far beyond corporate strategy and financial deals—his true impact lies in the people he has mentored and the wisdom he has imparted. While he has spent his career helping businesses grow and navigate complex legal and financial matters, his greatest contribution may be the professionals he has supported and inspired along the way. His ability to break down complex concepts, provide clear direction, and foster confidence has made him a trusted mentor across industries. 

At Pantheon International Advisors, he continues to play a key role in ensuring businesses have the tools they need to thrive. At the same time, he remains dedicated to mentorship, shaping the careers of young lawyers, executives, and students alike. Whether he’s teaching at top universities, advising seasoned leaders, or coaching emerging talent, Greystoke believes in lifting others up and opening doors for those who will follow in his footsteps. 

We would like to thank Andrew Lawrence Greystoke for sharing his insights and experience with our readers.