The Little Book of Calm, written by Paul Wilson, advises people how to deal with stressful situations. In an episode of the cult BBC sitcom, Black Books, one of the characters, Manny, purchases the book in order to deal with the high amount of stress put on him by his job as an accountant. *Spoiler alert; he accidentally ingests the tiny book which becomes absorbed in his system, leaving him incredibly calm.
A single consultation or meeting with Senior Associate, Pieter Walters would leave one absolutely convinced that, he too, has digested Wilson’s book. His Barnard Inc colleagues will attest to the fact that Pieter is extremely cool under pressure and is a master at analysing a complex legal matter. “He’ll never admit to it,” says director, Koos Benadie, “but behind that calm and humble exterior is the heart of a legal V8 engine!” Of course, Pieter would contend that he tends to over-complicate things. “I would like to get to the point and be effective sooner rather than getting involved in unnecessary complexities.”
Pieter attributes his work ethic and composure to his upbringing. Born in Cape Town and raised in Pretoria, he says he and his brother enjoyed a very happy family life. His mom is a former nurse and his father, previously in the military, has started his own business in the arms industry. “My parents continue to play an important role in my life. I am also privileged to have a fantastic relationship with my wife’s parents. They all continuously provide us with great advice,” adds Pieter.
As an experienced commercial attorney, Pieter heads up a department that deals with a number of complex corporate and commercial matters. He also advises and litigates in insolvency matters including liquidations, sequestrations, insolvency enquiries and business rescue and has extensive experience in drafting and implementing commercial agreements. “We always aim to deliver a service that provides clients with effective solutions to their legal demands,” he says.
Fortunately for his clients and Barnard Inc, Pieter decided to study for a career in law rather than his original plan to go into Microbiology. “My friend’s older brother was an attorney and he allowed me to shadow him at work,” recalls Pieter. “He was busy with some very interesting cases and it convinced me that a career in law was my calling.” Bacteria and protozoa’s loss is ‘quaestum lege est scriptor’ as the saying goes! (or does it?!)
Pieter and his wife recently welcomed a new baby into their lives, so ‘off-time’ is limited for them. “In the pre-baby days I enjoyed going for walks with our dogs, trying to regain some glory of days gone by with friends and playing a game of backyard rugby or cricket and having a braai,” he laughs. “But seriously, having become a father, I believe being a parent is a wonderful blessing and accomplishment. I am also proud of the relationships I have cultivated with friends and family and my career to date.”
And well he should be proud, because we’re sure to witness much more achievement from this humble and low-key wunderkind. As Black Books’ (Pieter’s favourite sitcom) Manny would say, “When you rest, you are a king surveying your estate. Look at the woodland, the peacocks on the lawn. Be the king of your own calm kingdom.” Too right!
