Firms To Watch: Employment

Roger Spence in Preston leads a rapidly growing employment practice at Harrison Drury & Co that provides a comprehensive employment and HR service to a wide variety of clients. The group welcomed Emma Butterworth from Gateley Legal in January 2024, Jamie Campbell from DWF in April 2024, and David Carmichael from Fieldfisher in May 2024.
Led by seasoned employment specialist Victoria Young, Watershed Europe Limited in Manchester advises clients from a variety of sectors on a broad range of employment issues, with capabilities that includes both day-to-day employment and HR matters, as well as complex litigation in the Employment Tribunal.

Employment in North West

Brabners LLP

Brabners LLP  has a seasoned, specialist employment practice whose ‘expertise and knowledge on complex issues shines through’. The group frequently handles Employment Tribunal claims, internal grievances, reorganisations, and industrial disputes. The employment department also works in unison with the firm's immigration and pension lawyers, and so can provide a full-service offering to clients in specialist cross-over areas, such as sports and recruitment. The ‘approachable and client-focusedNick Campbell leads the firm’s employment, pensions, and immigration team. In Manchester, the 'highly intelligent and focusedLydia Edgar is sought after for her expertise in the sports sector, and Simon Whitehead is an expert in recruitment and workforce solutions. The Liverpool group includes Joseph Shelston, who is knowledgeable in the retail sector and acts for national and international brands, and Kate Venables, who is particularly experienced in cross-jurisdictional projects.

Practice head(s):

Nick Campbell


Other key lawyers:

Lydia Edgar; Simon Whitehead; Joseph Shelston; Kate Venables; Lee Jeffcott


Testimonials

‘Nick Campbell is thoughtful and considerate in his dealings with clients. He is clearly very knowledgeable, but he never makes clients feel like they are not. Nick is always very approachable and client-focused.’

‘The team’s expertise and knowledge on complex issues shines through, and they are able to provide very commercial and practical advice that can be understood well by commercial stakeholders.’

‘The individuals from the employment team are very approachable and quickly grasp the commercial queries the business has. When this is combined with their expertise, knowledge and experience, they are able to very quickly get to understanding the issue and deliver advice that is commercial and practical.’

Key clients

A & P Limited


Alexander Wang


Alfred H Knight


Arighi Bianchi


Beckers Group


Booking.com


Cammell Laird Shiprepairers and Shipbuilders Limited


Chase de Vere IFA Group plc


FCSA


JD Wetherspoon plc


Lawn Tennis Association


Leicester City Football Club


Leyland Trucks Limited


Liverpool Football Club & Athletic Grounds Ltd


Lucid Games Limited


LWC Drinks Limited


Medicines Discovery Catapult


NWF Group PLC


Orbis Protect Limited


Peel Ports Ltd


Pilkington Group


Ralawise Limited


Shaw Trust


The Employment Agents Movement


The Very Group


Your Housing Group


Work highlights


  • Supported the Booking.com Group with employment issues relating to their global workforce, including regarding hiring and working from abroad, hybrid working, benefits, and employment disputes.
  • Supporting the human resources team at Pilkington with employment matters.

DAC Beachcroft LLP

The ‘dynamic and very responsive' employment team at DAC Beachcroft LLP in Manchester has particular expertise in the logistics, property and housing, and financial services sectors. The group advises on the full range of employment matters, including industrial relations, reorganisations and redundancies, and crisis management, and has significant capabilities with cross-border issues, such as TUPE projects and business immigration. Practice head Philip Harman specialises in a broad range of employment sectors and is highly experienced in trade union disputes, and Michelle Corrigan assists clients with all aspects of employment law and HR practice. The group also includes pensions expert Jane Marshall, Paul Corris, who advises on a variety of employment issues which often have an international element, and employment specialist Jenny Walker. Jeff Middleton joined the group from Hill Dickinson LLP in December 2023.

Practice head(s):

Philip Harman


Other key lawyers:

Michelle Corrigan; Jane Marshall; Paul Corris; Jenny Walker; Jeff Middleton


Testimonials

‘A dynamic and very responsive team with colleagues at all levels who understand our business and provide timely and pragmatic advice, enabling us to consider risks and approaches carefully and appropriately.’

‘Our key contact has been Jenny Walker and she has been exemplary throughout. She has handled our work with accuracy, efficiency and sensitivity. We would highly recommend both Jenny and the firm.’

Key clients

Alcidion


Aprite


Aviva Insurance


Bentley Motors


Boodle & Dunthorne


Chubb Insurance


Ciptep


Cokebusters


Copadd


Cornelius


Danske Commodities


DHL Group


Disclosure and Baring Services


Elan Homes


Everyday Loans


Forge Holiday Group


G. Adventures


Glen Dimplex


Government Legal Department


Hollins Murray Group


HSS Hire


Information Commissioners Office


Informed Services


Innserve


ISM Waste Management


James Halstead plc


Johnnie Johnson Housing Trust


McDonald’s


Mobolise


NHS


Notting Hill Genesis


Places for People


Qiagen


Roseheath College


Royal British Legion


Royal Sun Alliance


Salford Van Hire


Seddon Construction


St Anne’s Community Services


Tag Worldwide


Training 2000


Unilever


United Living Group


University of Manchester


West Fraser


Williams Lea


Wolverhampton College


Yoto


DLA Piper

DLA Piper in Manchester is a ‘one-stop shop for global employment legal matters' and is particularly sought after for advising on and managing complex multi-jurisdictional employment issues. The group also has extensive experience with claims in the Employment Tribunal and civil courts, and is especially knowledgeable in the manufacturing sector. Leading the group with 'excellent judgement', Alan Chalmers advises on all aspects of employment law. The group also includes the ‘exceptionalGeorge Nicholson, who is seasoned in international employment matters, compliance issues, and employee regulatory mandates in the financial services sector, employment and data protection expert Helen Hall, and Emma Mills, who is ‘very commercial and efficient', and advises on employment issues across a broad range of sectors.

Practice head(s):

Alan Chalmers


Other key lawyers:

George Nicholson; Helen Hall; Emma Mills


Testimonials

‘DLA Piper are the true international partner when it comes to seeking advice across the world. They create a trusted partner relationship where we can use them as our one-stop shop for global employment legal matters.’

‘George Nicholson is exceptional. He has a deep knowledge of our business and his advice is very commercial and pragmatic. George recognises our tolerance for risk and need to create neat solutions that apply across multiple jurisdictions. This makes handling complex, multi jurisdictional projects and dealing with issues across the globe seamless.’

‘Very responsive and always very helpful.’

‘The team are approachable and knowledgeable. They provide clear, thorough advice in a timely manner.’

‘Helen Hall has expert knowledge of a wide range of employment law matters. She has a solid understanding of how our organisation works, its values, and its strategies, which enables her to provide valued, tailored advice. She is always very responsive and provides a first-rate service.’

‘Helen Hall is very knowledgeable and I know that her advice will be sound. She understands our business context and will seek to understand the issues and highlight risks whilst working in collaboration to achieve the desired outcome.’

‘Alan Chalmers has excellent judgement and a willingness to challenge his clients where it is in their interests to do so.’

‘Emma Mills is very commercial and efficient. Always exceeds expectations when it comes to responsiveness.’

Key clients

Reach plc


Wickes Plc


Budweiser Brewing Group


International Hotels Group plc


Northumbrian Water Group


Sony Music


Wesco Anixter


Jones Lang LaSalle


Akzo Nobel


The Disclosure and Barring Service


Sodexo


Adevinta


BCN Group


Compass Minerals Group


Sopra Steria


Stericycle


Wave Utilities


Analysys Mason


Solid State Plc


Work highlights


  • Advised Kelly Services Inc on the sale of its European staffing business, spanning 14 jurisdictions.

e3 employment law LLP

Boutique firm e3 employment law LLP is praised as ‘an incredibly strong employment law practice delivering commercial and pragmatic advice’, primarily to blue chip clients and global businesses. The group is experienced in a broad range of employment issues, especially those surrounding restructurings, industrial disputes, TUPE transfers, and restrictive covenants. In Liverpool, the group includes Dan Bickerstaffe, who is praised as ‘very knowledgeable, commercial and a safe pair of hands' and is sought after in TUPE matters and large-scale restructurings, and Simon Ost, whose advice is ‘solid, implementable and prompt’. Ost is particularly seasoned in complex restructuring projects and employment litigation involving discrimination and whistleblowing. Nick Jones in Manchester focuses on employment aspects of corporate life, including board level changes, restructurings, and severances.

Practice head(s):

Simon Ost; Dan Bickerstaffe; Nick Jones


Testimonials

‘e3 is an incredibly strong employment law practice delivering commercial and pragmatic advice.’

‘Excellent employment law knowledge and expertise in industrial relations and consultation. Practical advice and templates where needed and step-by-step guidance for complex consultation. Good network of associates and experts when needed for specialist areas.’

‘Dan Bickerstaffe is very knowledgeable, commercial and a safe pair of hands. He instills confidence in his clients and is firm but polite in negotiations.’

‘Nick Jones has a great understanding of our business and our culture, and he has advised us on many difficult matters, always finding a commercial solution to our needs.’

‘Personal attention and wide knowledge of employment law.’

‘e3 is a specialist, boutique law firm. As such, they provide a partner-led service and their advice is of a high standard. They are reliable, punctual and commercially-savvy.’

‘Simon Ost has provided expert advice on some very delicate and complex employment matters over the last 12 months. His advice is always solid, implementable and prompt.’

‘The advice provided is always sufficiently detailed and commercially nuanced to make it very useful and applicable.’

Key clients

BASF plc


Elior UK plc


On The Beach Group plc


Perspex International Limited


Culina Group


Mitsubishi Chemical UK Limited


WEPA UK Limited


Leonard Curtis Business Solutions Group


Conductix-Wampfler


Service to the Aged


Work highlights


  • Defended a stock exchange listed group against claims of failure to inform and consult under TUPE and failure to collectively consult about proposed redundancies brought by two prominent national trade unions.
  • Defending a household name employer against high-profile litigation in the Employment Tribunal involving allegations of whistleblowing and discrimination on the grounds of multiple protected characteristics.
  • Advising the Main Board Managing Director of an international advanced manufacturing business on the complex departure from this role.

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP

Praised for its ‘sector specialism, tailored advice and responsiveness’, Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP in Manchester specialises in all areas of employment law across a broad range of sectors. The group has particular expertise in matters involving Employment Tribunals, industrial action, and mandates with an international element. Diane Gilhooley is the global head of the firm’s employment, labour, and pensions practice, and Naeema Choudry advises on a broad range of employment issues, including terminations, strategic employment litigation, and diversity and inclusion matters. The group also includes education sector expert Robert Gray and Jenny Mann, who is highly capable in instructions regarding restrictive covenants, confidential information, and injunctive relief applications. Michael Thompson is another key practitioner.

Practice head(s):

Paul Cotton


Other key lawyers:

Diane Gilhooley; Naeema Choudry; Robert Gray; Jenny Mann; Michael Thompson


Testimonials

‘The team at Eversheds Sutherland have a fantastic reputation. They commit to truly understanding the sectors the represent and commit to delivering presentations of real value to their clients.’

‘The size of the team at Eversheds Sutherland is a real asset, with excellent communication amongst members of the department so that if one person is on leave another person is able to pick up and run with the matter confidently.’

‘Extremely professional but with a friendly and very pragmatic business focus’

‘Superb customer service. Feels like dealing with an in-house lawyer.’

‘Experience and expertise. Eversheds have a deep understanding of employment law and a track record of success in handling cases similar to our requirements.’ 

‘Availability, expert legal knowledge of local markets, growing understanding of our set up and what we do as a business, but perhaps most importantly their speed combined with a pragmatic approach to solving our often complex employment issues.’

‘The Eversheds Sutherland North West Employment team are a real asset to the education sector and we highly value their support and guidance with our work. The team go above and beyond supporting us to deliver high quality, accurate and timely advice.’

‘Sector specialism, tailored advice and responsiveness.’

Key clients

Warburtons Limited


United Utilities Group Plc


BBC


RPS Group Plc


Equality and Human Rights Commission


International Nuclear Services and Pacific Nuclear Transport


Limited


Sellafield


Dechra plc


Goldsmiths, University of London


University of Manchester


University of Central Lancashire


London South Bank University


The Sixth Form Colleges Association


Boston University, London


The National Film and Television School


West Midlands Trains Limited


Beaverbrooks


Matillion Limited


Go North East Limited


Global People UK Limited


Muller Limited


EDF Energy Limited


DFDS Seaways Limited


Work highlights


Hill Dickinson LLP

Led by commercial employment specialist Kerstie Skeaping in Liverpool, Hill Dickinson provides ‘prompt and forthright advice with a commercial twist’. The group acts for companies and national public sector bodies in the full range of employment matters, and has particular expertise in the healthcare and education sectors. In Manchester, Michael Wright is a sought after employment advisor for the NHS nationally, and David Parry provides ‘no-nonsense, expert legal advice‘ in claims for breach of restrictive covenants, misuse of confidential information, and team-moves. Luke Green in Liverpool is highly sought after in the education sector and has ‘very good knowledge of all aspects relating to interaction with trade unions‘. Jeff Middleton moved to DAC Beachcroft LLP in October 2023.

Practice head(s):

Kerstie Skeaping; Michael Wright; Luke Green; David Parry


Testimonials

‘Kerstie Skeaping is outstanding in the area of dealing with issues of misconduct, poor attendance and capability.’

‘Luke Green has a very good knowledge of all aspects relating to interaction with trade unions.’

‘Hill Dickinson are just the best; their service, advice and support are second-to-none. This practice is worth every penny, as we all feel supported and trust the advice we are given. They just take the stress out of dealing with HR issues.’

‘I can highly recommend both Michael Wright and Hill Dickenson in terms of employment law advice. Michael and his team are experts in both employment law and in terms of the NHS context.’

‘As a firm, Hill Dickenson is of a size that can accommodate the significant volumes of cases that need advice, as well as the firm having a broader offer of experts that can provide advice on, for example, pensions.’

‘Prompt and forthright advice with a commercial twist.’

‘Partner-led expertise and crystal-clear clarity on fees.’

‘David Parry provides no-nonsense, expert legal advice that always fills me with confidence.’

Key clients

BBC


Iceland Foods Limited


Frasers Plc


Stobart Rail Limited


Britvic Soft Drinks


Peel Group Management Limited


Redde Northgate plc


The Book Service


The Charity Commission


The Delivery Group


Grant Thornton UK LLP


dnata Travel


Health Education England


NHS England & Improvement


Liverpool Heart and Chest NHS Foundation Trust


The Christie NHS Foundation Trust


Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust


Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust


Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust


The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust


Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust


St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust


Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust


University Hospital of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust


Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust


Cheshire & Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust


Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust


Trilanco Limited


Vynova


GEFCO UK


Arrow XL


Myriad Genetics


FRP Advisory LLP


Caldic (UK)


G2 Speech UK


Oldham Council


Geraud UK Ltd


City of Liverpool College


HE Simm


Partylite


Travel Republic


Odeon Cinemas


Liverpool Airport


Parkwood Leisure


A G Parfett & Sons


Agility Chemical Logistics


Ramsay UK Healthcare Group


Encirc Limited


Sonoco Alcore Limited


CF Fertilisers UK Limited


Nacro


Premier Care


City of Liverpool College


HE Simm


Partylite


Travel Republic


DD Products & Services


Special Piping Materials


Myriad Genetics


Cultureshift Communications Limited


Bolton NHS Foundation Trust


Primary Care 24 Ltd


Halle Concerts Society


Redwood TTM


PW Greenhalgh Finishing Limited


Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts


British Counselling and Psychotherapy


Tyman plc


En Route International Ltd


NHS Business Services Authority


NHS North of England Commissioning Support Unit


Merseyside and West Lancashire NHS Trust


Work highlights


  • Defended an NHS Trust successfully against a complex constructive dismissal and race discrimination claim.
  • Acted for three NHS clients in defending complex litigation involving multiple discrimination claims brought by a doctor in training.
  • Advised an NHS Commissioning Support Unit on a large-scale restructure.

Pinsent Masons LLP

The employment lawyers at Pinsent Masons LLP in Manchester are praised as ‘exceptional in their practical application of the law'. The group is particularly sought after in the technology, science, industry, food and drink, and automotive sectors, and frequently handles cases with a multi-jurisdictional element. Practice head Neil Black is a ‘personable, responsive and commercial’ manufacturing and infrastructure specialist, and advises on a broad range of employment issues, such a senior executive exits, whistleblowing, and industrial relations. Another key practitioner is Kate Dodd, who is an employment and equality law expert and ‘outstanding in her field'.

Practice head(s):

Neil Black; Helen Corden


Other key lawyers:

Kate Dodd


Testimonials

‘Pinsent Masons always provides advice and guidance that is personalised to our company’s size and resources. ’

‘Kate Dodd has been an invaluable source of guidance and support, particularly during redundancy situations. In every instance where we have required employment law advice, she has taken the time to fully understand the nuances of the situation and tailored her advice accordingly.’

‘Pinsent Mason are an exceptional legal practice, mainly because of the people who work for them. Everybody I have come across has been capable, open, hard working and pragmatic. Pinsent Mason are a legal firm who are willing to give an honest view and tell you what they think – as well as providing the full legal guidance.’

Key clients

Wincanton plc


Jaguar Land Rover


Mondelez International


ITP Aero


Costain plc


Arqiva


Weetabix


Morgan Sindall plc


Adient Inc


Nissan


Siemens Energy


NHBC


Work highlights


  • Representing Wincanton in the defence of multiple claims raised in multiple Employment Tribunals arising from a disputed TUPE transfer between Wincanton and Bimson arising in connection with work carried out for major construction material producer Ibstock.
  • Supporting Wilms Group with a review of one of its UK investments, the British Cable Company, and approaching the issue of transition of the retiring Managing Director and appointment of his replacement.
  • Assisting Mondelez International with the negotiation of a new trade union recognition agreement with Unite the Union.

Squire Patton Boggs

Squire Patton Boggs in Manchester advises multinational and global corporate clients on the full range of employment services. The group is praised as ‘knowledgeable in a number of sectors‘, and is particularly experienced in matters regarding investigations, equal pay claims, reorganisations and restructurings, board-level projects, and diversity and inclusion issues. The practice is co-led by the ‘brilliant‘ Bryn Doyle, who is an expert in cross-border employment projects, investigations, and matters in the retail sector, and the ‘pragmatic‘ Alison Treliving, who is particularly experienced in cross-border restructurings, dismissals, and grievances. James Pike, who has extensive experience in large-scale restructurings, employment tribunal litigation, and industrial action issues, is also a notable practitioner.

Practice head(s):

Alison Treliving; Bryn Doyle


Other key lawyers:

James Pike


Testimonials

‘Strong team with sophisticated and extensive litigation experience.’

‘Bryn Doyle is a trusted advisor with sound judgement who will always make himself available. He provides highly astute, pragmatic, and commercial advice. He provides valuable insight into market practice which allows us to benchmark ourselves against peers.’

‘Excellent and pragmatic.’

Key clients

Tesco Stores Ltd


EU Automation


Veolia


Princes Limited


Burberry Limited


Coca-Cola European Partners


CBRE


Bensons for Beds


Pets at Home plc


RICS


Sia Partners


Peel L & P


BDO Services Limited


Ineos


Avis Budget Group


Molson Coors


Sweco


Roadchef


Petredec Europe Ltd


Portman Dental


Work highlights


  • Representing Tesco in the equal pay claims being brought by store colleagues who are claiming the right to equal pay with colleagues in distribution centres.
  • Advised an FTSE 250 client on attempts made by a trade union to obtain recognition for its driver population at its manufacturing and distribution facilities.
  • Advised the US parent of a European manufacturing business on the dismissal of its managing director due to underperformance.

Addleshaw Goddard

Reputed for its ‘commercial approach, reliable legal advisory and excellent client handling’, Addleshaw Goddard in Manchester advises clients on a broad range of employment matters, with a particular focus on strategic HR advice. The group has expertise in the financial services, retail and consumer, energy, and transport sectors, and is uniquely experienced handling issues relating to inbound investment from the US. The group is co-led by Michael Burns, who provides ‘outstanding client care' across a wide range of contentious and non-contentious employment mandates, and Andrew Moore, who is an Employment Tribunal litigation expert, as well as being sought after in matters relating to contingent workers. The ‘brilliantKate McGough, who specialises in non-contentious and transaction-related employment work, is also a key contact.

Practice head(s):

Michael Burns; Andrew Moore


Other key lawyers:

Kate McGough; Sajida Hussain


Testimonials

‘AG are well reputed for their commercial approach, reliable legal advisory and excellent client handling. Always proactive and able to focus on practical guidance with the big picture never lost.’

‘Kate McGough is brilliant: swift, timely, addressing the issue, and a wealth of real-life experience. Michael Burns is hugely reliable and wastes no time whilst providing outstanding client care too.’

‘The service was exceptional, with ongoing communication of statuses, problem-solving, and the wanted outcome. Addleshaw Goddard has provided us with the solutions, communicated on our behalf with our counterparts, including the authorities, and provided explanations as to why we meet the legal requirements for the different hurdles we had to overcome.’

‘It is great to see a dedicated team from different backgrounds and religions in a prominent field.’

Key clients

Chesnara plc


Torbay & South Devon NHS Foundation Trust


Teneo Financial Advisory Limited


Sysco GB


AJ Bell Plc


Bachy Soletanche Ltd


Work highlights


  • Advised Chesnara Plc on TUPE and other HR and employment aspects of the appointment of a replacement pension servicing platform provider, SS&C, for its Countrywide Assured and Sanlam Life and Pension books.
  • Supporting Sysco GB, as the sole employment law provider for the entire group in the UK and Europe, with all day-to-day employment, IR, and immigration matters,  as well as acting in Employment Tribunals and settlement agreements.
  • Advised Torbay & South Devon NHS Foundation Trust on the proposed separation and sale of its embedded pharmaceutical business, Torbay Pharmaceuticals, with a view to the Trust investing the profits of the sale into its estate and reducing its significant financial deficit.

Bramhalls Solicitors

Praised as ‘brilliant to work with due to their team ethos', boutique firm Bramhalls Solicitors in Wirral handles a variety of complex employment and industrial relations matters exclusively for employers, including advice on executive terminations, discrimination claims, whistleblowing, and restrictive covenants. Leading the group, the ‘excellent' Phil Bramhall advises across both public and private sector employment law matters, and regularly works with HR professionals to provide holistic employment advice in situations where a company’s reputation is under threat. Other key lawyers include Rehan Pasha, who is ‘a delight to work with' and represents a variety of companies in matters involving Employment Tribunal litigation, restructurings, and labour relations, and Helen Owen, who ‘really partners with her clients' on the full range of employment issues.

Practice head(s):

Phil Bramhall


Other key lawyers:

Rehan Pasha; Helen Owen


Testimonials

‘Highly personable team and they work with clients for a long period of time allowing strong business knowledge which supports pragmatic guidance.’

‘All solicitors within the firm are helpful and give practical advise. We value their quick response and practical application of the law.’

‘Helen Owen provides realistic guidance to our people issues. Helen has also worked with our senior team to provide training in the legal framework and how that relates to their people management roles.’

Key clients

Poundstretcher Limited


Stanley Black and Decker UK Limited


Edge Hill University


Cheshire College South and West


GreenThumb


PD Ports


The Billington Group


Chester Race Company Limited


Portmeirion


RSK Group


Autism Together


Wirral Metropolitan College


The British Association for Shooting and Conservation


MM Packaging


Nynas UK


Kronospan


Hope House Children’s Hospice


Surface Technology International Limited


CSM Ingredients


NRG Riverside Limited


Warrington and Vale Royal College


Salons Direct


Baker and Baker


Calbee


Work highlights


  • Representing a large retail company against a substantial National Minimum Wage complaint from HMRC.
  • Defended a large food manufacturing company successfully against an unfair and wrongful dismissal claim.

DWF

With a global reach, the ‘excellent employment team' at DWF in Manchester advises a broad range of clients, ranging from private equity investors to government departments, across a variety of sectors. The group works in collaboration with the firm's corporate, commercial, and real estate teams on transactions to ensure a holistic service to clients, and is particularly strong in representing clients before Employment Tribunals. Key practitioners include practice head Joanne Frew and employment specialist Kirsty Rogers, who also leads the environmental, social and governance department. Sinead Donnelly moved to Watershed Europe Limited in October 2023.

Practice head(s):

Joanne Frew


Other key lawyers:

Kirsty Rogers; Jon Keeble


Testimonials

‘The employment team is extremely responsive and proactive in ensuring that pragmatic advice is given and that employers are kept fully abreast of legal changes on the horizon.’

‘DWF stands out for several reasons, primarily due to its strengths and capabilities.’

‘What sets them apart is their commitment to providing tailored service. From their approach to billing to their focus on client experience, they strive to understand our business and needs.’

Key clients

Currys Plc


10X Technologies Services Ltd


Acacium Group


Whitbread


adidas


Finsbury Foods Group


County Air Ambulance


Impellam


CDT Tiles


Amnesty International Limited


C&C Group plc


Sunamp Limited


Apprentify Group Limited


RSS Global Limited


Ryze Hydrogen


LB Group Advisory


Work highlights


  • Representing the Nursing & Midwifery Council in relation to ongoing tribunal and appeal proceedings in the EAT and Court of Appeal in a leading case which clarifies the law around mutuality of obligation for worker status.

Fieldfisher

Led by Alex Watson, who is praised as ‘a fantastic lawyer with an encyclopaedic grasp of employment law principles', Fieldfisher in Manchester acts exclusively for employers with expertise that spans a broad range of employment issues. The ‘efficient, reliable and commercially minded' team has particular capabilities in the food and beverage, hospitality and retail, and property sectors, and is also experienced in handling matters with an international element. Another key lawyer is Rachel Rigg, who has a broad employment practice and is ‘an up-and-coming lawyer who is excellent with clients'.

Practice head(s):

Alex Watson; Ranjit Dhindsa; Nicholas Thorpe


Other key lawyers:

Rachel Rigg


Testimonials

‘We use Fieldfisher for all our employment needs. The team are efficient, reliable and commercially minded. They will always take our views on board rather than just giving instruction.’

‘Alex Watson is exceptional. He completely understands the industry and challenges. He knows when we contact him it is urgent and he always responds fast with excellent commercial advice. He won’t always tell us what we want to hear if it is not in the company’s best interests.’

‘Practical and strategic legal advice. They are knowledgeable and technical, and work with you, providing tactical advice to decide on the best route forward.’

‘Alex Watson is excellent. His advice is highly strategic and focussed, and he works closely with you in achieving good results.’

‘They are very responsive, excellent communicators and very commercial.’

‘The Fieldfisher employment team is first rate. Great team players with a strong interdisciplinary approach to litigation. You always feel supported in the advocacy role where Fieldfisher are instructing. Attention to detail is second-to-none.’

‘Alex Watson has strong client management skills and is a fantastic lawyer with an encyclopaedic grasp of employment law principles. Alex is a force of nature and is one to watch in this space.’

‘Rachel Rigg is an up-and-coming lawyer who is excellent with clients. She has a solid grasp of employment law principles.’

Key clients

Everton Football Club


Soteria Insurance Limited


Spicerhaart Group Limited


Brothers Drinks Co. Limited


Bidvest Noonan


Sport England


Wolseley UK Limited


Wilkin & Sons


Stonegate Pub Company


Shamal Holding


Lloyds Pharmacy


Work highlights


  • Defending Soteria Insurance in a class action claim regarding an important TUPE matter.
  • Represented Bidvest Noonan in its complex and high-value litigation.
  • Advised Lloyds Pharmacy on complex litigation in the Court of Appeal.

Forbes Solicitors

Largely operating out of Central Lancashire, the employment practice at Forbes Solicitors has a ‘highly capable and engaging team’ that advises clients on a broad range of employment matters, with particular expertise in the commercial, education, public, and social housing sectors. National head of employment and education sector expert Jonathan Holden leads a specialist team whose ‘knowledge of employment law and the education sector as a whole is second-to-none‘. Emma Swan is an expert in employment, HR consultancy, and business immigration services, and Ruth Rule-Mullen leads a public sector group that ‘delivers exceptional results in the most challenging circumstances’. Jennifer Smith in Manchester, who advises on contentious and non-contentious employment law, and is particularly strong in representing clients before Employment Tribunals, is another key contact.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Holden; Emma Swan; Ruth Rule-Mullen


Other key lawyers:

Laura McHugh; Jo Handler


Testimonials

‘Forbes Solicitors’ public sector employment team, led by Ruth Rule-Mullen, delivers exceptional results in the most challenging circumstances. Their unique blend of expertise, client-focus, and innovative solutions set them apart. In particular, Ruth Rule-Mullen and Laura McHugh stand out as trusted partners for public sector organisations and school trusts facing complex legal challenges.’

‘Jo Handler is just wonderful. Extremely knowledgeable and down-to-earth, Jo takes the time to understand the company and also the culture within the company so her advice is tailored to suit.’

‘Every single interaction I have had with Forbes Solicitors has been excellent. If I had to describe them in one word, it would be ‘collaboration’. They want to help and each and every person I have had interaction with wants to help. Their company culture and values really ring true with each person you meet.’

‘Jo Handler and Jennifer Smith have been so professional, collaborative and informative and I honestly love working with them. They really care about Forbes and building long-term relationships with people.’

‘The speed of response is exceptional. Their knowledge of employment law and the education sector as a whole is second-to-none.’

‘I’ve worked predominantly with Laura McHugh and Ruth Rule-Mullen, each of whom have responded in a timely manner, have made themselves available to understand the query or advice required and have supported with providing guidance and increasing understanding for myself or a member of my team.’

‘Exceptional service from a highly capable and engaging team.’

‘Highly personable, driven and passionate about achieving the right outcome. Technical knowledge, attention to detail and tactical approach all beyond question.’

Key clients

Accrol Papers Ltd


BBF (Hull) Ltd


Bainbridge Electrical


Bishop Frazer Trust


Blackburn College


Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council


Bolton School


Boohoo Group Ltd


Brookhouse Areospace Ltd


Calday Grange Grammar


Chaigeley School


Chesnara PLC


Chesterfield College


Cidari


Community First Academy Trust


Doncaster Metropolitan Borough Council


Edapt


Education Partnership Trust


Farmhouse Biscuits


Fusion Risk Management Limited


GA Pet Food Partners Ltd


Gilpin Lake House


Great Places Housing Group


Henri Lloyd UK Limited


Hill Biscuits Ltd


ICO


James’ Places Ltd


Kepak Group


Lancashire County Council


Lostock Hall Academy


Multevo Limited


New College Durham


Nordex SE


Northcote


O’Callaghan Ltd


One Manchester


Parbold Douglas


Penwortham Priory


Preston Council


Progress Housing


Ribby Hall Village


Romero Catholic Academy Trust


Silver Cross (UK) Ltd


Soul Foods


Sous Chef


South Ribble Council


South Yorkshire Housing Association


The Information Commissioners Office


The Smith Foundation


The Stafford Collection


Transport Exchange Group


True Learning Partnership


West Kirby School


Wyre Borough Council


Wythenshawe Community Housing Group


Work highlights


  • Defended South Ribble Council against a claim of alleged race discrimination.
  • Acting for Cool Cube Logistics in a High Court injunction brought by two of the directors who allege that an injunction is required to avoid irreparable damage being imparted on the company.
  • Defending Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council against a complex employment tribunal claim involving claims of constructive dismissal, wrongful dismissal, and discrimination on the grounds of age and disability.

Gateley Legal

Led by employment expert Chris Thompson, Gateley Legal in Manchester consists of ‘down-to-earth solicitors‘ who largely act for corporates on the full range of employment issues. The group focuses on providing day-to-day employment support to clients across a wide range of sectors, as well as acting on matters involving industrial action, restructuring exercises, corporate support, senior executive terminations, investigations, and litigation. Key lawyers include Avril England, who primarily advises clients in the retail, leisure, and healthcare sectors, and Lorna Harris, who is an education and health sector specialist. Emma Butterworth left the group for Harrison Drury & Co in January 2024.

Practice head(s):

Chris Thompson


Other key lawyers:

Avril England; Lorna Harris


Testimonials

‘They are down-to-earth solicitors who explain what they are doing and why.’

‘They are knowledgeable and have many divisions of law so other departments have helped us out along the way. They are welcoming and friendly. ’

‘Chris Thompson has never been unavailable and even when we have others dealing with our case, Chris is still close to it and steps in when needed.’

Key clients

Medivet Group Limited


Around Noon Limited


Asahi UK Limited


The Big Table Group Limited


Burger King


Covea Insurance Plc


Diversey Limited


Europcar (UK) Limited


Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Europe Limited


Harmony Fire Limited


HTI Toys UK Limited


Integrated Care 24


IPL Global


Levi Strauss (UK) Limited


M and M Direct Limited


Punch Taverns (Services) Limited


Rhenus Logistics Limited


Timpson Limited


Wren Sterling Financial Planning Limited


Edinburgh Woollen Mill


JMW Solicitors LLP

JMW Solicitors LLP has ‘a wealth of knowledge' spanning across a broad range of employment matters, with sector-specific expertise in recruitment and hospitality. The firm also has complimentary expertise in business immigration and pensions, and is therefore able to provide a comprehensive employment law service to clients. The ‘level-headed and practical' chair of the group Paul Chamberlain (Manchester) is an expert in the recruitment industry, as is Simon Bloch, who is ‘always willing to go the extra mile' and has extensive experience advising recruitment businesses on restrictive covenant disputes and issues arising from the use of social media. Another recommended lawyer is Marcus Difelice, who is a seasoned defender of claims in the Employment Tribunal.

Practice head(s):

Paul Chamberlain


Other key lawyers:

Simon Bloch; Marcus Difelice


Testimonials

‘JMW provides an excellent service.’

‘JMW Solicitors have a wealth of knowledge and this is seen from all areas of the team, not just employment law, but also immigration, women’s health, and intellectual property.’

‘Simon Bloch is very knowledgeable, very precise in how he delivers, and always willing to go the extra mile.’

‘Paul Chamberlain is the most experienced person in employment law I know, and the most level-headed and practical. He understands the battle between what is required in law, and what is a practical solution, whilst at all times remaining compliant.’

‘We have always enjoyed a good working relationship with JMW and besides a professional, competent service across any department we engage with, there is also a very friendly and personable approach.’

‘Paul Chamberlain and his staff on the employment team are friendly, down-to-earth, very detailed on the subject matter and think outside the box.’

‘Simon Bloch is true expert in is field of employment and recruitment law.’

‘The team are highly experienced, which enables us to tackle issues with confidence. For some specialist areas not within their normal reach, they are excellent at introducing external specialists to get the full-rounded view.’

Key clients

Telecom Plus Plc


Travelodge Hotels


The Restaurant Group plc


Wagamama


Nando’s


U & I Group plc


British Medical Association


Freelancer & Contractor Services Association


Honest Burgers


The Employment Agency Movement


Work highlights


  • Supporting BMA on employee relations matters as a part of its panel.
  • Assisted Nando’s People Team with a training programme for its management team, representing essential refresher training on key legal areas of employee relations, in particular addressing the area of Equality Laws in the UK.
  • Supported B&B Hotels with its set-up process in terms of the engagement of people to operate its hotels.

Kuit Steinart Levy LLP

Praised by clients as ‘extremely knowledgeable', Kuit Steinart Levy LLP in Manchester handles a broad range of employment matters in a variety of industries, with particular expertise in the leisure and hospitality, sports, and education sectors. Practice head Kevin McKenna in Manchester advises on the full spectrum of employment issues, while Sally Bird has particular expertise in boardroom disputes, high-value contractual disputes and breach of restrictive covenants, as well as being experienced in the sports sector. Mark McKeating provides ‘excellent advice' in all employment matters, with a particular focus on senior executive terminations, the enforcement of restraint of trade provisions. and Employment Tribunal claims. Another notable practitioner is James Howarth, who is ‘particularly skilled in assisting clients with what might be the more technical and difficult process aspects of employment and data protection law'.

Practice head(s):

Kevin McKenna


Other key lawyers:

Sally Bird; Mark McKeating; James Howarth; Claire Hollins; Claire Treacy


Testimonials

‘Excellent HR practice with exceptional working knowledge of the legal and practical framework surrounding the topic. Pragmatic and on-point advice with an ability to cut to the important matters and guide the client to the desired outcome.’

‘Mark McKeating has excellent advice and great client management skills.’

‘Claire Treacy is always friendly, builds a great working relationship with us, is always on hand, provides advice efficiently, and adapts her style to us so it’s understandable.’

‘Kuit’s employment team is well led, client focused and functions as an interactive whole. It gives a real sense of working collectively, focused always on the interests of the client.’

‘Kevin McKenna is never less than impressive, especially under pressure. He has a cool head, incisive analysis and real tactical acumen.’

‘James Howarth has impressed. He is particularly skilled in assisting clients with what might be the more technical and difficult process aspects of employment and data protection law. These are areas in which many have a dangerously superficial understanding. James has real knowledge.’

‘Claire Hollins is swift to respond and has a good understanding of commercial as well as legal implications of a course of action.’

‘The employment team are friendly, approachable and extremely knowledgeable. They address all the legal issues from a human perspective, which aligns with our company values. I am rest assured that my team always receive straight-forward, quality advice.’

Key clients

STADA UK Holdings Ltd


Turtle Bay Restaurants Limited


Danish Crown UK Limited


Maersk Line UK Limited


Lyreco UK Limited


Clarity Travel Limited


BGEN Ltd


Auto Trader


Graco Inc


YKK (U.K.) Limited


Amber Taverns


Crown Oil Limited


Prescient Healthcare Group (UK) Ltd


Interactive Technology Corporation Limited


Myerson Solicitors

The ‘incredible' employment team at Myerson Solicitors in Altrincham advises clients on a broad range of employment issues, with a particular focus on large-scale redundancies and reorganisations, collective consultations, TUPE issues, and employment tribunals. Leading the group, employment specialist Joanne Evans has ‘significant expertise and underlying grit' with significant experience in large-scale redundancies, collective consultations, trade union disputes, corporate support, and advice to senior individuals. The group also includes Joanne Henderson, who provides ‘a first-class service' to businesses across a wide range of sectors and is also seasoned in the Employment Tribunal, and the ‘very commercialCharlotte Gilbert, who advises employers on restructurings and TUPE issues. Gilbert is also experienced in discrimination and whistleblowing claims in the Employment Tribunal.

Practice head(s):

Joanne Evans


Other key lawyers:

Joanne Henderson; Charlotte Gilbert; Patrick Byrne; Jack Latham


Testimonials

‘Joanne Evans is extremely pleasant, accessible and people friendly, but also with significant expertise and underlying grit.’

‘The team at Myerson are incredible. They are available when needed urgently and I never have to go over old ground with anyone when progressing with cases. Their people are knowledgeable without being overwhelming, and explain everything clearly. They understand that we are not experts, so the advice is tailored to our needs and delivered in such a way that we can then make informed decisions.’

‘Myerson are a professional team of lawyers.’

‘Joanne Henderson has been invaluable in her advice and guidance to our organisation. She provides a first-class service. She is warm, personable and professional, and she is not only an expert in her field, but also has a very pragmatic and thoughtful approach to her advice, which is particularly valuable.’

‘Jack Latham truly cares for his clients and the outcome, he is very professional, and has excellent knowledge of the law and legal systems.’

‘Patrick Byrne is helpful, accessible, and good to deal with.’

‘Charlotte Gilbert is very commercial and understands senior staff complex matters very well. She is happy to hear your thoughts too, and the advice is then very tailored to your needs and ready for implementation rather than just legal opinion.’

‘Excellent knowledge with a really pragmatic approach, discusses options with pros and cons and helps plan strategies to mitigate risks. The company has a really team-oriented approach and there is no hierarchical nature at all. The team are clearly loyal to the firm and the firm is committed to inclusiveness.’

Key clients

AQA


Eastern Airways


Gladman Developments Limited


Humberside Airport


Joseph Holt


Kverneland


Lowry Theatre


Matillion Limited


Royal Exchange Theatre


Stax Trade Centres


TATA Chemicals


Travel Counsellors


Pannone Corporate LLP

Led by the ‘stand-out' employment specialist Jack Harrington, Pannone Corporate LLP in Manchester advises a broad range of clients primarily on employment issues relating to TUPE, restrictive covenants, strategic HR advice, Employment Tribunal claims, and business immigration. The group is particularly experienced with investigations and regularly handles cases with an international element. The group includes Fiona Hamor, who ‘has the ability to explain complex information clearly and concisely' and specialises in discrimination, equal pay, TUPE matters, and right to work issues, and Michael McNally, who is a seasoned Employment Tribunal advocate and leads the group’s corporate support work.

Practice head(s):

Jack Harrington


Other key lawyers:

Fiona Hamor; Michael McNally; Lorna Shuttleworth; Radhika Das


Testimonials

‘Pannone are a very professional organisation giving excellent response times for all issues raised. They have a great understanding of our requirements with an excellent ability to explain issues in an easy to understand manner. They always go the extra mile to ensure we have the service we require.’

‘All associated with Pannone have an excellent attitude built on professionalism and are very approachable within their own fields. However, Jack Harrington, who we deal with mainly, is a stand out individual whose standards and advice is always of the highest calibre.’

‘Pannone Corporate have been our employment advisers for several years. We have no hesitation in recommending their services. They are very fast in acknowledging the issues that a client has, and then their responses are very measured and accurate. They make sure that you feel confident in the advice and always engage the client in their conclusions.’

‘A stand-out individual in Pannone Corporate is Jack Harrington. He is a senior partner in the organisation. Jack always makes himself available, even if the issue has been passed onto other members of his team. Over the years we have asked Jack for several pieces of advice ranging from issuing of employment contracts to employee issues and have always been given invaluable advice which we have followed 100%.’

‘I can’t reccommend Michael McNally and Lorna Shuttleworth enough. I am consistently impressed by their exceptional dedication and expertise and their ability to swiftly address any legal challenges that arise is truly commendable. Not only are they incredibly knowledgeable in their respective fields, but they also possess a remarkable level of professionalism and integrity in their interactions with us.’

‘Radhika Das is outstanding in her advice and her commitment to helping us resolve issues.’

‘Lorna Shuttleworth is always on hand to help and support with employment law issues.’

‘Fiona Hamor has built strong relationships with the team, is very quick to absorb information and gives detailed advice. She has the ability to explain complex information clearly and concisely and is always very quick to respond to requests for advice.’

Key clients

Leep Holdings (Utilities) Limited


Select Service Partner UK Limited


HMSHost


Represent Clothing Limited


The Lowry


SMG Europe Holdings Limited


Great Places Housing Group


Berwin Rubber Limited


Smoothwall Limited


M&I Materials Ltd


Work highlights


  • Advised the shareholders of M&I Materials Limited on the employment aspects of the complex sale to Shell of the MIVOLT and MIDEL businesses.
  • Advised a charity on a sensitive grievance relating to gender critical beliefs and the use of pronouns.
  • Supported Represent Clothing Limited by delivering the firm’s Management Upskilling Programme, a unique training programme developed by the employment team.

TLT

The ‘exceptional employment lawyers‘ at TLT in Manchester boast broad expertise in both contentious and non-contentious employment work, including in whistleblowing, large scale re-organisations, TUPE issues, equal pay, restrictive covenants, and industrial relations. The group is particularly knowledgeable in the retail and leisure, financial services, engineering and manufacturing, and transport and logistics sectors. The ‘first-rate employment lawyer‘ Ed Cotton advises on all areas of employment law, with particular experience in restrictive covenants, team moves, and reputational issues, and Liz Cotton has expertise in providing strategic advice to the board and is also seasoned in Employment Tribunal claims involving discrimination and whistleblowing. Amy Stokes joined the group from Forbes Solicitors in June 2023.

Practice head(s):

Ed Cotton; Liz Cotton; Amy Stokes


Testimonials

‘Very accessible and responsive.’

‘Ed Cotton is commercially minded, helpful, and sensible in any negotiation.’

‘TLT have a good, structured approach to giving timely advice, which is well thought out and presented in a way that is easy to understand given the complex nature of legal advice. There is a good feeling of team work within TLT, not only with each other but as a client, as they they are working with us and are truly interested in doing what’s right for the organisation.’

‘Amy Stokes was exceptional in dealing with a number of difficult employment issues which were all successfully concluded within the timescales. Amy also provided invaluable advice on those issues, allowing the client to take an informed view of best way to progress the particular matters and expertly guided the client through the process, achieving a positive outcome for the client in all matters.’

‘The team work well across practices to deliver joined up legal services. They are professional and technically good, yet commercial.’

‘Ed Cotton is responsive, collaborative, and technically strong.’

‘TLT are exceptional employment lawyers. They are very commercial and make every effort to fully understand our business and sector.’

‘Ed Cotton is a first-rate employment lawyer.’

Key clients

Manchester Airport Group


College of Policing


Greater Manchester Police


Cumbria Constabulary


Boohoo Group PLC


TJ Morris Limited


Finning UK & Ireland Limited


Alstom


Servoca plc


Keolis Amey Metrolink


Nichols plc


J Sainsbury plc


BT Group


WH Smith Plc


Savills plc


Biffa plc


Smiths News


Care Quality Commission


Work highlights


  • Representing Home Bargains in employment tribunal litigation.
  • Advised Hoodrich on all employment aspects of the sale of the company, including a transfer of employees as part of the deal structure.
  • Assisting Greater Manchester Police with internal employment matters.

Weightmans LLP

Overseen by Nick Newman in Manchester and Rebecca Cairney in Liverpool, the group at Weightmans LLP acts for large employers in both the public and private sector. The team is particularly strong in the Employment Tribunal and sought after for advice across a range of sectors, including health, social housing, logistics and distribution, local government, and education. In Manchester, Ian Pace is an ‘excellent asset to the company' and advises clients on all aspects of employment law, particularly in the health, social care, education, and insurance industries, and the ‘exceptionalSaira Ali is a specialist NHS employment lawyer. The group also includes Steve Peacock in Liverpool, who is an expert in employment matters in the education sector.

Practice head(s):

Ben Daniel; Nick Newman; Rebecca Cairney


Other key lawyers:

Ian Pace; Saira Ali; Steve Peacock


Testimonials

‘I find their client care second-to-none. During our Employment Tribunal claim the department kept us informed of all the issues and stages as they arose.’

‘Very responsive team. Prompt advice. Able to navigate easily. Very supportive.’

‘Personalised service. Prompt response on complex issues.’

‘Saira Ali is an exceptional partner, she is exceptionally professional, extremely dedicated, provides fantastic support, and her advice and work is always of the highest quality.’

‘The employment team, headed by Ian Pace, is extremely well placed to deal with a wide range of demands. The advice that they give is always balanced and customer centric.’

‘Ian pace is an excellent asset to the company, he is a balanced and seasoned individual who deals with clients on a very personal basis.’

‘The employment team at Weightmans really do epitomise excellent customer service. The team are extremely responsive and provide sound advice and guidance that we can be confident in.’

‘Saira Ali is excellent. Very approachable and gives sound, practical advice with a good understanding of the NHS sector.’

Key clients

Royal Mail Group Ltd


British Airways plc


Clarion Housing Group


Torus62 Limited


The Regenda Group


Liverpool University


Amber Valley Borough Council


Isle of Man Steam Packet Company


Chief Constable of Merseyside Police


Sime Darby Oils Limited


NHS England & NHS Improvement


Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust


The Lowry Hotel Ltd


The Placement Group plc


The Merchant Taylor’s School


Beacon GP Care Limited


Exertis UK Ltd


Office for Nuclear Regulation


St Helens Borough Council


Work highlights


  • Advised a further education provider on a cross-border matter involving recruitment processes for a joint-venture based in China.
  • Representing 5 councils in the defence of approximately 2,500 holiday pay claims brought by term-time workers, using AI to apply the calculation formula.
  • Advised an international manufacturing business on the restructure of their international business, including closure of sites.

Aaron & Partners LLP

With practitioners praised for their 'attention to detail', the employment team at Aaron & Partners LLP has sector-specific expertise in the education, professional and regulated practices, automotive, leisure, and tourism industries. Leading the group from Chester, Helen Watson advises both public and private clients across the full spectrum of employment matters, and is particularly skilled in Employment Tribunals and investigations. The group also includes Claire Brook in Chester who advises employers on all aspects of employment law and is particularly experienced in Employment Tribunal claims. Employment and immigration specialist Adam Haines in Manchester is another key name in this space.

Practice head(s):

Helen Watson


Other key lawyers:

Claire Brook; Adam Haines


Testimonials

‘Their responsiveness, helpfulness and attention to detail in resolving any issues is commended.’

‘A strength of the team is their support in sharing their knowledge and experiences in a professional capacity whilst always being available.’

‘Helen Watson and her team were quick to respond. True professionals. Both matters were resolved quickly and communication was very efficient.’

‘Helen Watson is professional and quick to respond to an urgent situation.’

‘There is always a solution in advice given! Never not had a path to follow to move forward with something.’

‘The contacts we have with Aaron & Partners are consistent in their service, no matter the complexity of the query. They make every effort to deliver advice in a simple, manageable format so someone without a law degree can fully digest it.’

‘Adam Haines is very responsive, always available and works really hard to ensure client success.’

‘Claire Brook takes time to understand the culture whilst supporting in setting out professional and ethical obligations. She builds trust, acts with integrity and demonstrates an unbiased and fair approach, and she delivers instructions and directions in the interest of the business.’

Key clients

Sovini Group


Sovini Property Services Limited


Wirral Chamber of Commerce Limited


The Learning Trust


Special Needs Care Limited


Clogau Gold of Wales Limited


Imagine Independence


Textlocal Limited


Evans Textile (Sales) Limited & Group


Ysgol Bryn Elian


North of England Zoological Society


Analysis Legal LLP

Analysis Legal LLP in Manchester is a specialist employment firm that advises businesses, senior executives, and professionals on a broad range of employment issues, with particular expertise in Employment Tribunal litigation and advising on large settlement agreements. The group is increasingly sought after by clients in the sports sector. The practice is co-headed by Anna Lees, who is an expert in tribunal claims, restrictive covenants, and negotiating senior executive exits, and Andrea Paxton, who primarily advises corporate clients on employment issues, and is also experienced in complex exits of senior executives and professionals. The group also includes Catherine Parkinson, who assists corporate clients with a broad range of employment and HR issues in sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, retail, media, and the public sector.

Practice head(s):

Anna Lees; Andrea Paxton


Other key lawyers:

Catherine Parkinson; Kate Oberg


Key clients

The Co-operative Group


Raisin UK


Credico


Peak15


Champion Insurance


Ceramtec UK


Stoke City Council


Waterfields (Leigh) Limited


ESUK Aerospace and Simulation Limited


Alpla UK Limited


Weaver Vale Housing Trust


Families for Children


Community Health Partnerships


MDS Global Ltd


Total Fleet UK Limited


Eddie Stobart Limited


BEP Surface Technologies Limited


Caddick Construction (NW) Limited


Nuvia Limited


Safran Nacelles Limited


Langtree Property Partners Limited


Sigmatex (UK) Ltd


Mexichem UK Limited


Handepay Limited


Ultimate Finance


World Sailing


Work highlights


Browne Jacobson LLP

The Manchester-based employment team at Browne Jacobson LLP advises brands and organisations on a variety of issues across multiple public and private sectors, with a particular focus on manufacturing, retail, logistics, construction, education, and health. The group also has extensive experience representing employers in the Employment Tribunal. The practice is chaired by Lee Ashwood, who advises both national and international businesses on a broad range of employment issues, and is a seasoned Employment Tribunal litigator. Owen Jenkins and Miriam Onwochei-Garcia, who both assist clients with a broad range of contentious and non-contentious matters, as well as on employment aspects of corporate transactions, are both key contacts.

Practice head(s):

Lee Ashwood


Other key lawyers:

Owen Jenkins; Miriam Onwochei-Garcia


Key clients

Sports Information Services


Castore Sportswear


Rich’s Products


Clean Power Hyrdrogen


Selective Marketplace Limited


Horizon Care & Education


Voyage Care


Moran Logistics


DPD


The Edwin Group


Lotus Cars


Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust


Reach2


Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust


E-ACT


East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust


Database Service Provider Global Limited


Clyde & Co

Clyde & Co in Manchester has ‘an incredibly strong employment team'. The group is particularly skilled in mandates involving litigation and investigations, especially in the insurance sector, and it boasts significant experience handling employment matters with an international element. The practice is co-led by Lynsey Barrow, who is ‘an employment lawyer at the top of her game', and national head of employment Robert Hill, who is praised by one client as ‘very knowledgeable on TUPE issues'. Tom Saville, who is particularly strong in employment litigation and has ‘a laser-like focus on obtaining the best outcome for the client', is another key contact.

Practice head(s):

Lynsey Barrow; Robert Hill


Other key lawyers:

Tom Saville; Natasha Mills; Sarah Begg; Jennifer Bevan


Testimonials

‘This is an incredibly strong employment team providing first-class client care. Members of the team go above and beyond in getting to know their clients, understanding their business and personal needs, and giving top-notch strategic and tactical advice.’

‘Lynsey Barrow is super smart, calm and collected. An employment lawyer at the top of her game.’

‘Jennifer Bevan is a class act. She provides absolutely stellar insight and client care, and inspires immediate and absolute trust. An absolute star solicitor.’

Key clients

Community Pharmacy England


Cotton Traders Limited


Kennedys

Kennedys in Manchester has a ‘first class‘ employer-focused employment practice that advises on a broad range of contentious and non-contentious work in sectors such as insurance, professional services, manufacturing, and retail and leisure. Leading the group, Amanda Beaumont is ‘highly experienced and knowledgeable' and advises on a wide variety of employment issues; she is also a seasoned tribunal advocate. The group also includes Sarah FitzGerald, who primarily handles contentious employment matters, especially for insurers and their insured businesses.

Practice head(s):

Amanda Beaumont


Other key lawyers:

Sarah FitzGerald


Testimonials

‘Extremely good support and advice when required, we would not use anyone else.’

‘Amanda Beaumont is highly experienced and knowledgeable in employment law. She also understands business and comes up with solutions that are pragmatic whilst also being able to translate complex processes into layman terms.’

‘Used their talent from all across the country to address my questions. Exceptionally prompt service and response time. The biggest thing was that the lawyers I dealt with were personable, relatable, and down-to-earth. This meant I did not feel intimidated and that I could better access the answers I needed.’

Key clients

Cogent Skills Services


dmg : events


RSA


Travelers


AIG


Newly Weds Foods


Nuffield Health


Arena Racing Company


Vitaflo International


UK Fuels


Radius Payment Solutions


Lower 48 Energy


The Growth Company


QA Limited


The University of Portsmouth


Law by Design Limited

Praised for its 'results-driven approach', Law by Design Limited in Manchester is a specialist employment firm that handles the full range of employment services for clients. The group includes Sue Morrison, who provides strategic employment advice to both public and private sector clients, Zhaleh Hawkins, who is a ‘great technical lawyer' with broad employment experience, including litigation, and Justin Quinton, who specialises in employment and data protection law and has a particular interest in the healthcare sector.

Practice head(s):

Sue Morrison; Zhaleh Hawkins; Justin Quinton


Other key lawyers:

Benjamin Greene


Testimonials

‘Law by Design are renowned for their specialist knowledge of employment law issues within the NHS and public sector clients generally. They have built a loyal following of clients who trust their advice and commercial approach.’

‘Zhaleh Hawkins is a great technical lawyer who has a commanding grasp of the issues in each case and always delivers. She is empathetic and builds trust, ensuring clients are fully supported.’

‘Benjamin Greene is a strong team player who commits to his cases and will go the extra mile for clients.’

Key clients

Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust


Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust


The Dean Trust


Gradus Ltd


Warrington & Halton Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust


Work highlights


  • Defended an NHS Trust successfully against complex disability discrimination claims brought by a nurse who claimed that she was unable to undertake her duties due to various health conditions.
  • Defended an educational Academy Trust successfully against an application for interim relief made by a former employee in claim for unfair dismissal on the grounds of whistleblowing.
  • Acted for an individual claimant in a successful claim for unfair dismissal, whistleblowing detriment, and breach of contract against her former employer after she had been dismissed for raising concerns about health and safety and breach of COVID-19 regulations.

Lewis Silkin LLP

Lewis Silkin LLP in Manchester advises on the full range of employment matters, including industrial relations, investigations, and boardroom work, as well as providing representation in Employment Tribunals. It also has increasing expertise in matters relating to neurodiversity. The team has a particular focus on the transport, advertising and marketing, manufacturing, technology, retail, and hospitality sectors. Leading the group, Sally Hulston advises national and international clients on all aspects of employment law. Carly Mather also assists with the entire range of employment issues, with a particular focus on restructurings, senior executive exits, and employment aspects of corporate transactions and commercial outsourcing arrangements.

Practice head(s):

Sally Hulston


Other key lawyers:

Carly Mather; Ed Gregory


Key clients

Scotia Gas Networks


Bestway Healthcare


Hertz Europe Limited


Simplyhealth Limited


Frenkel Topping Limited


West Midlands Trains Limited


Norcros Group (Holdings) Limited


Moneysupermarket.com


Froneri Ice Cream UK LTD


Semperian Business Support Limited


Work highlights


  • Advising a financial services client on a complex and high-value unfair dismissal and disability discrimination claim  brought by a claimant with ADHD and Asperger’s who was dismissed for sexually harassing multiple clients.
  • Assisting a client with investigations involving #metoo issues and other serious discrimination complaints.
  • Advising a national retailer on a large-scale restructure to remove headcount through both compulsory and voluntary collective redundancies.

Mills & Reeve LLP

The Manchester-based employment team at Mills & Reeve LLP is praised by clients as ‘experienced, knowledgeable, approachable and interested in getting to know the organisation‘, and is particularly sought after by clients in the health, commercial, and education sectors. The practice is led by Sara Barrett, who ‘gives very clear, concise commercial advice’ and is experienced with a broad range of employment issues, including industrial relations and senior executive severance agreements. Barrett is especially knowledgeable in the commercial, education, and not-for-profit sectors, and she is also highly capable of handling employment matters with an international element.

Practice head(s):

Sara Barrett


Other key lawyers:

Miriam Guilding


Testimonials

‘Great understanding of the business and operations. Service packages are tailored to your requirements.’

‘Sara Barratt has great understanding of employment law and provides suitable solutions and support.’

‘The employment team are extremely experienced and approachable. Their advice is always considered and they take the time to get to know our organisation. The team make themselves available and had strength and depth across all areas of employment law and related matters.’

‘The team are experienced, knowledgeable, approachable and interested in getting to know the organisation. They provide considered advice and a range of approaches based on our sector.’

‘A very personable team. You really feel that they care and empathise with your issues.’

‘Sara Barrett gives very clear, concise commercial advice.’

‘Mills & Reeve are very good at understanding you as a client, what your risk appetite is and what options you will focus on and those which you will just be aware of. They really understand our sector and can bring experience from their interactions with the wider sector to our particular issue.’

‘Miriam Guilding is a rising star who deals with complex cases ably. She is a creative and diligent lawyer. She works hard for her clients and secures the best outcome time and again. She is a superb lawyer and well respected by others.’

Key clients

LTE Group


League Football Education


Lancaster University


Bako Group


IDEO LP


Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust


The Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust


Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust


Royal Northern College of Music


IKO PLC


Work highlights


  • Acting for various senior executives in varied exit arrangements.
  • Advised BGF on its investment into fast growing technology group KCA Holdings.
  • Advised a US owned global business on a substantial restructuring of its London, including what procedure to be followed, pooling issues, advice on relevant criteria, right to work Visas, and immigration issues associated with that.

SAS Daniels LLP

The employment team at SAS Daniels LLP in Stockport provides ‘excellent advice' across a broad range of sectors, and is particularly skilled at defending Employment Tribunal claims, as well as handling day-to-day employment, HR, and corporate support matters. Discrimination specialist Katie Hodson leads the practice and she handles all types of contentious and non-contentious employment work. The ‘exceptional' Charlie Wood, who has a broad employment practice that encompasses considerable experience in the Employment Tribunal, is another key practitioner.

Practice head(s):

Katie Hodson


Other key lawyers:

Charlie Wood


Testimonials

‘I am delighted with the services provided by the solicitors from SAS Daniels LLP, which has included commercial contract advice, HR, and litigation.’

‘Excellent advice and actions taken in a timely manner.’

‘Charlie Wood is exceptional.’

Shoosmiths LLP

With broad employment expertise, Shoosmiths LLP's team in Manchester has particular expertise representing corporate clients in Employment Tribunal litigation. Practice head Emma Morgan has extensive experience with a range of employment issues, and is also an immigration specialist praised by clients as ‘pragmatic, commercial, sharp and strategically minded'. Another key lawyer is Amy Anderson, and she specialises in defending Employment Tribunal claims and is ‘an expert in her field’.

Practice head(s):

Emma Morgan


Other key lawyers:

Amy Anderson; Lauren Bhole


Testimonials

‘Shoosmiths are a really collaborative firm, going the extra mile to embed themselves in their client’s business and understand its needs.’

‘The Shoosmiths team put client care at the heart of their service delivery. They take time to understand the operation and personalities meaning their advice is bespoke, strategic and aligned with the organisation’s aims and values.’

‘The impressive Emma Morgan is pragmatic, commercial, sharp and strategically minded. Emma is a straight talker, so equally comfortable with operations, HR and in-house legal. Emma’s clear direction and leadership of the team is apparent and her expectations as to quality resonate from the rest of the team.’

‘They are well-rounded and grounded lawyers that do a good job at a good value. They have the personal skills to manage and interact with people of various positions and backgrounds and they understand and appreciate the varying challenges and priorities of different areas of the business.’

‘Emma Morgan has the ability to understand and know the business, and in particular its strengths and weaknesses and understanding what a good outcome is.’

‘Amy Anderson forms an essential part of the team and is an expert in her field.’

‘The team at Shoosmiths are first-class.’

‘Lauren Bhole’s cases are always exceptionally well prepared. A real star of the future.’

Key clients

South Staffordshire College


Royal Institute of British Architects


CityFibre Holdings Limited


Mawdsley Group Investments Limited


Lottoland


Apparel Brands Limited


Snag Group Limited


Endless LLP


WeWork


Work highlights


  • Assisted Endless LLP on the employment aspects of an expedited cross office and group transaction.

Trowers & Hamlins LLP

Trowers & Hamlins LLP has a full-service employment practice that advises private, public, and third sector clients across a broad range of industries. The practice is co-led by Danielle Ingham, who has particular expertise in the technology, leisure, and manufacturing in retail sectors, and Laura Welchew, who advises registered providers, charities, social care provides, and local authorities on a broad range of employment matters. The group also includes Vikki Cunliffe, who is well equipped to handle advisory work relating to strategic projects, as well as contentious employment matters and Employment Tribunal advocacy.

Practice head(s):

Danielle Ingham; Laura Welchew


Other key lawyers:

Vikki Cunliffe


Key clients

Costco Wholesale UK Limited


Secret Escapes Limited


Peabody Trust


Time 4U Limited


Alium Medical


The Together Trust


Financial Services Compensation Scheme


London Metals Limited


National Autistic Society


Trinnovo Group


Work highlights


  • Defended Costco Wholesale UK successfully against a multi-day employment tribunal complaint from an employee who challenged its mandatory face-covering policy applied during the COVID-19 pandemic on the basis of discrimination arising from disability.
  • Supported Secret Escapes with a root and branch update and harmonisation of its global suite of employment contracts covering multiple employee locations across EMEA.
  • Advising a global plastics manufacturer on collective and individual employee consultation requirements relating to phased closure of its UK site.

Bexley Beaumont

Praised for its ‘diverse skill set and comprehensive approach to problem-solving’, Bexley Beaumont in Manchester regularly acts for medium and large employers in a broad range of employment issues across many sectors. Alexandra Clements advises on all aspects of employment law and is also an expert in business immigration. The group also includes Rebecca Peck, who provides strategic advice on the full spectrum of employment matters and is also sought after for Employment Tribunal hearings, and Louise Carr, who specialises in the public and education sectors.

Other key lawyers:

Alexandra Clements; Rebecca Peck; Louise Carr; Nicola Young


Testimonials

‘Bexley Beaumont stands out for its unwavering commitment to understanding the intricate nuances of employment law and its application in various industries. What potential clients would find most compelling about this team is not only their deep expertise, but also their dedication to providing tailored solutions that align with the specific needs and goals of each client.’

‘Among the standout partners, Louise Carr exemplifies exceptional leadership and a deep understanding of employment law nuances. Louise’s ability to navigate complex legal landscapes while maintaining a client-centric approach is truly remarkable. Louise stands out for her meticulous attention to detail and exceptional advocacy.’

‘One of the key strengths of this team lies in its diverse skill set and comprehensive approach to problem-solving. With a blend of seasoned employment law veterans and fresh perspectives from up-and-coming legal talent, the firm offers a dynamic and well-rounded perspective on even the most complex employment issues.’

‘Clients can expect a collaborative environment where innovative ideas are encouraged, and every member of the team is empowered to contribute their unique insights. Bexley Beaumont distinguishes itself through its deep expertise, collaborative approach, technological innovation, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.’

‘Nicola Young is a true professional with the ability to translate legal speak into layman’s terms. Her client care is impeccable.’

‘They take time to know us and our business and understand the challenges we face.’

‘Louise Carr is like a business partner. When we need her she is there, and she promotes and protects us.’

‘Rebecca Peck is the jewel in the crown of a very competent employment team. She delivers savvy, relevant, tailored advice which is legally sound but also commercially astute.’

Key clients

British Pregnancy Advisory Service


Fiskars (UK) Limited


Hillside (Shared Services 2018) Limited


Mammoet (UK) Limited


Meyer Timber Limited


Paragon Finance plc


QubicaAMF UK Limited


JD Sports Fashion plc


JN Bentley Limited


Brand Addition Limited


Chambers O'Neill

With ‘an outstanding eye for detail,’ boutique Manchester-based firm Chambers O'Neill advises on the entire spectrum of contentious and non-contentious employment and HR matters, with a focus on corporate clients. Practice head Andrew O’Neill has ‘a huge amount of legal knowledge‘ and advises corporates across a broad range of sectors. O’Neill is also a seasoned tribunal advocate and is dual-qualified in Ireland. Naomi Dinnes is also a key contact for Employment Tribunal claims.

Practice head(s):

Andrew O’Neill


Other key lawyers:

Naomi Dinnes


Testimonials

‘Andrew O’Neill is the stand out partner in this small but highly professional and capable firm, they have an outstanding eye for detail and will tackle complex legal and people-related issues.’

‘They provide a professional but still personal touch, often dealing with complex questions at a drop of a hat. They are very capable in the legal arena.’

‘Very attentive to the client. Available and flexible in our requirements.’

Key clients

ABM Aviation UK Limited


ABM Facility Services UK Limited


ABM Technical Solutions Limited


NES Global Talent


IDG Holdings Limited


Arora Hotels Group


ABM Ireland


Energy Catapult


Uniloads Limited


Urban Splash


A&M Energy Solutions Limited


ADP Architecture Limited


HCC Solicitors


Encore Global


Work highlights


  • Advised ABM Aviation on complicated pay talks and industrial action ballots instituted by the trade unions at one of its large UK aviation hubs.
  • Represented ABM group successfully in numerous Employment Tribunal claims.
  • Assisted Encore Global (PSAV) Group with the implementation of new contracts for numerous freelancer technicians.

Freeths LLP

Described as ‘a safe pair of hands for Employment Tribunal work', Freeths LLP in Manchester advises well-known brands, charities, and government organisations on employment issues across a broad range of sectors. Leading the group, Laura Tracey has particular expertise with the employment aspects of M&A transactions, disposals, and private equity investments, and ‘offers advice with the optimum blend of commercial, legal and practical elements'. The group also includes Matt Fraser, who is especially experienced in employment work in the retail and care sectors, and Sarah Bogues, who has a broad employment practice.

Practice head(s):

Laura Tracey


Other key lawyers:

Matt Fraser; Sarah Bogues


Testimonials

‘Laura Tracey  is extremely knowledgeable and approachable.’

‘The Manchester employment team constitute a safe pair of hands for Employment Tribunal work. They take a pragmatic, transparent approach to litigation.’

‘The team really take the time to understand your concerns and provide tailored advice and guidance based on your needs. They are knowledgeable and don’t try to give you a solution as a one fits all basis.’

Key clients

Aldi Stores Limited


Equans


John Sisk & Son Limited


Blue Cross


Zertus UK


Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company


National Portrait Gallery


Resilient PLC


Now Education


Definition Group Holdings Limited


The Alumasc Group PLC


Ultimate Products UK Limited


gunnercooke LLP

Benefiting from its strong capabilities as a full-service corporate law firm, gunnercooke LLP is ‘very responsive and able to give practical advice in complex areas'. It supports national and international companies, not-for-profit bodies, SMEs, and technology start-ups with a broad range of employment matters. The group includes Paul Ryman, who advises both companies and senior executives on contentious and non-contentious employment matters. The ‘extremely constructive, helpful, and solution focusedRachel Spink is seasoned in the Employment Tribunal and gives commercial advice on the full range of employment issues, and Sarah Armstrong is an expert in the recruitment sector.

Other key lawyers:

Paul Ryman; Rachel Spink; Sarah Armstrong


Testimonials

‘We have found the team to be very responsive and able to give practical advice in complex area. Paul Ryman, who has helped us out on a number of occasions, epitomises these qualities.’

‘The team at Gunnercooke are approachable and relaxed, but of course at the same time professional and knowledgeable in their respective fields. As customers we greatly appreciate a firm that has approachable and knowledgable people that can find solutions to often unique problems faced by company like ours in an emerging sector.’

‘Rachel Spink provided sound advice throughout our many specific employment and contract requirements for employees and contractors of the firm. Rachel is straight talking, always available, and of course she has always provided deliverables in a prompt manner which we have greatly appreciated.’

‘I have no hesitation is recommending Rachel Spink for any employment needs.’

‘Rachel Spink worked on a personal employment-related matter with me. I found her extremely constructive, helpful, and solution focused in managing the situation.’

Key clients

24-7 Group


Broadcast Med


Work highlights


  • Advised 24-7 Group on the employment aspects of its acquisition of Haywood & Jackson Ltd.
  • Advised US client Broadcast Med on the employment aspects of its acquisition of Texere.

HM3 Legal

The ‘very professional and knowledgeable' group at HM3 Legal in Chester has broad expertise in employment law that spans multiple sectors, and is particularly experienced in advising businesses and high-net-worth individuals in the manufacturing, transport and logistics, leisure and hospitality, professional services, and not-for-profit sectors. The practice is led by Justine Watkinson, who boasts expertise in litigation and contentious employment matters, as well as being knowledgeable in director disputes and managing exit strategies. Another key contact is Lindsey Kidd, who advises clients on all areas of employment law.

Practice head(s):

Justine Watkinson


Other key lawyers:

Lindsey Kidd


Testimonials

‘A cohesive team that always had someone there for me. It felt personal and value driven.’

‘The personal approach the team took was very welcomed. They were very calm and super reassuring in what was a stressful situation. The knowledge for the legal aspects was excellent! I felt very much supportive and communication was brilliant!’

‘I was pleasantly surprised with the efficiency, knowledge and responsiveness from the team. I was kept updated constantly and informed of relevant information in a jargon free way. A very very professional and concise service and experience. Highly recommended.’

Key clients

Anselmians RUFC


Go Shorty


Roberts Manufacturing Limited


Joule Group Limited


Puro Ventures Limited


Manor House Stables LLP


MLP Law LLP

MLP Law LLP in Altrincham provides an ‘excellent service' in all aspects of employment law and HR to a diverse group of national and international clients, and the team has particular expertise in business immigration and Employment Tribunal work. The group includes employment specialist and practice head Gareth Matthews, who has a ‘very positive and analytical approach to his work’ and primarily advises businesses and senior individuals on issues surrounding corporate M&A transactions and TUPE transfers. Julie Sabba is a key contact for all employment matters, especially for tribunal work. Deborah Scales joined the firm from Taylor Rose in November 2023 and is a highly experienced employment and discrimination lawyer.

Practice head(s):

Gareth Matthews


Other key lawyers:

Julie Sabba; Deborah Scales


Testimonials

‘Clear communication through use of everyday plain language means they are approachable and you feel that once a conversation has finished, you have understood it and have an answer.’

‘Excellent service, very knowledgeable, advice given is always helpful and very informative ’

‘Gareth Matthews and Julie Sabba are always willing to offer advice and will always solve any employment law issue presented to them without hesitation.’

Key clients

TB Resorts Operations Limited


Calgaz Limited


Indiespring Limited


The Manchester Crematorium Limited


GKR Karate Admin Services LLP


Rota Limited


Osborne Delta (Lightning Conductors) Limited


Delta Steeplejacks Limited


Care Assured Limited


Life Changing Education Limited


Applied Photophysics Limited


HEL Group Limited


Training Qualifications UK Limited


Britplas Commercial Limited


Slater Heelis (Part of Lawfront)

Operating out of Manchester and Sale, Slater Heelis (Part of Lawfront) has ‘a commercial approach to employment law issues' and advises charities, not-for-profit organisations, local authorities, high-net-worth individuals, and SMEs on the full range of employment issues. The group can also leverage the firm’s corporate, commercial, and dispute resolution departments to provide a holistic service to clients. The practice is co-led by the ‘stand-out' employment litigation specialist Tracey Guest and seasoned advocate Sarah Calderwood, who goes ‘above and beyond' for clients and has specialist knowledge in the pursuit of injunctive action regarding the enforcement of restrictive covenants.

Practice head(s):

Tracey Guest


Other key lawyers:

Sarah Calderwood


Testimonials

‘The team has a depth of experience, and is reactive and collaborative with a commercial approach to employment law issues.’  

‘This team provides the high-quality, pragmatic advice you’d expect, however, they are also very down-to-earth and personable.’

‘Very responsive practice, good collaboration across departments, and excellent knowledge in fields of expertise.’

‘Great commercial acumen and advice in layman’s terms.’

‘Reliable, knowledgeable and always provides the support we need.’

‘Tracey Guest is a stand-out name; she exudes experience and confidence with a shrewd, tactical approach.’

‘All are very approachable and very easy to work with.’

‘Sarah Calderwood is a stand-out partner; Sarah always goes above and beyond in supporting us. Pragmatic, risk-based advice that allows the business to realistically assess options and implications. Also, very approachable and personable. Fully recommend.’

Backhouse Jones

With a ‘pragmatic approach to advice and support’, Backhouse Jones in Clitheroe advises on all aspects of employment law. The group has ‘unparalleled' expertise in the transport sector and therefore frequently advises bus and coach operators and trade associations. The practice is co-led by Steven Meyerhoff, who is ‘very attentive and has a broad knowledge' in the transport sector and a seasoned Employment Tribunal advocate, and employment and commercial law specialist James Lomax, who focuses on disputes in Road Transport Working Time issues, dismissals, trade union disputes, TUPE, restrictive covenants, and discrimination.

Practice head(s):

Steven Meyerhoff; James Lomax


Other key lawyers:

Heather Lunney


Testimonials

‘I think one of the things that strikes me the most is how well they know our business. They know our policies inside out, our people, what makes us tick, and what matters to us. They also make us feel important in their accessibility, approachability, advice and more.’

‘They’re all down-to-earth, knowledgeable, direct and helpful. They give you the advice you need but aren’t afraid to tell you about risks and better approaches. They don’t pander and that’s good, as it’s not what we’re looking for!’

‘Pragmatic approach to advice and support. Always commercially focused. Explains potentially complex situations in simple and understandable terms. Everything dealt with in an efficient and timely manner. Simply put they feel like part of our team.’

‘Heather Lunney is an absolute pleasure to partner with. Given the nature of our collaboration Heather is always professional and has a great sense of humour which inevitably saves me from my frustrations with particularly challenging scenarios.’

‘They are all very easy to deal with and you always get the impression that they know their stuff.’

‘Steven Meyerhoff is very attentive and has a broad knowledge in his subject area.’

‘Backhouse Jones have a history and pedigree as the best legal firm within the PCV, bus and coach sector.’

‘Their dedication and knowledge of the sector is unparalleled.’

Key clients

Road Haulage Association Limited


Rotala plc


Abellio UK


Jaques of London


Warrington Borough Transport Limited


Stagecoach Manchester


McCarthy Haulage Limited


Somerset Passenger Solutions Ltd


Transdev Blazefield Ltd


Go South Coast


T & R Precision Engineering Ltd


Blackpool Transport


Krispy Kreme


Work highlights


  • Advising most of the major UK bus operators and many major UK HGV operators on daily employment matters, and representing them in tribunals.
  • Acting for Abellio in various employment-related matters, including the highly publicised London bus worker strikes.

Beyond Corporate Law

Beyond Corporate Law in Manchester is an ‘exceptional' specialist corporate and commercial business with broad employment expertise. The group advises on all aspects of employment law and HR, and has specialist knowledge in the financial services, healthcare, technology, retail, transport, and property sectors. The group is co-headed by the ‘pragmatic and commercialAdam Pavey, who is an expert in disability discrimination and regularly represents doctors and nurses in the Employment Tribunal, and Anthony Dempsey, who has ‘great knowledge of employment law' as well as strong corporate and commercial capabilities.

Practice head(s):

Adam Pavey; Anthony Dempsey


Testimonials

‘We find the team responsive and they have good commercial skills.’

‘Anthony Dempsey has a great knowledge of employment law and he has an ability to inform us of future potential issues.’

‘Anthony Dempsey is an excellent individual that understands our requirements instantly and works to a resolution. ’

‘Adam Pavey is pragmatic and commercial. A safe pair of hands who will give clients added value. He is known for undertaking complex investigations with an excellent, pragmatic, no-nonsense approach.’

‘The employment team have always been exceptional at Beyond Corporate Law in assisting us with all our employment enquiries. We have no hesitation in instantly reaching out to them whenever we have an issue.’

‘Adam Pavey has been exceptional at aiding our business when needed with all our employment queries. He is always only a phone call away, and that gives us the comfort that even in emergencies when we need advice, we can get it.’

‘Adam Pavey always gives us the help and advice to put us in the strongest position possible and ensure we are always protected.’

‘We have never been happier with our employment legal support.’

Key clients

Supreme PLC


Work highlights


  • Advised Supreme PLC on its employee incentive arrangements, including the implementation of its 2022 LTIP and the planning and co-ordination of a multiple exercise of existing share options and sale of shares by employees.

DTM Legal LLP

The ‘approachable, pragmatic and solution-focused team' at DTM Legal LLP  advises commercial clients on the full range of employment issues, and the group has particular expertise in matters involving shareholder disputes and TUPE issues, as well as representing clients in the Employment Tribunal. Leading the group from Liverpool, Tom Evans is ‘extremely knowledgeable' and has a broad employment practice with a focus on Employment Tribunal litigation and shareholder disputes. The group also includes Alison Brennan in Chester, who specialises in all aspects of business and non-contentious employment law.

Practice head(s):

Tom Evans


Other key lawyers:

Alison Brennan


Testimonials

‘Tom Evans and the DTM team give practical advice on what to do to protect us legally but also adopt the best practice for managing people.’

‘Tom Evans is very good at providing information in layman terms that we can understand as non-experts in HR and law.’

‘Tom Evans has always assisted and worked within the timescales. He is extremely knowledgeable and often points out risks associated with the claim.’

‘The team are so easy to talk to and are detailed in responses. They take time to explain legalities around certain situations in an easy to understand way. I wouldn’t want to work with any other team.’

‘Great to work with, really engaging and friendly whilst having great skills and knowledge.’

‘Attention to detail, knowledge and relationship and understanding of our business.’

‘Very approachable, pragmatic and solution-focused team.’

‘Tom Evans brings clarity to his advice alongside excellent client handling skills.’

Key clients

Callitech


Typhoo Tea Limited


Village Bakery (Wrexham) Limited


CSA Group Testing UK Limited


Proximo Holdings Limited


Thornton Hall Hotel Limited


Smylie Limited


Calder Industrial Materials Limited


MCS Service Company Limited


The MCS Foundation


Regency Wealth Ltd


Regentia Lifestyle Planning Ltd


53 Degrees Global Limited


Net World Sport Limited


Work highlights


  • Successfully defended a national recruitment consultancy against multiple claims of race discrimination in the Employment Tribunal, Employment Appeal Tribunal, and Court of Appeal.
  • Advised Typhoo Tea Limited on a site closure triggering collective consultation with recognised trade unions.
  • Advised a client on obtaining settlement agreements for 60 employees exiting a national University.

Glaisyers ETL

Working across a broad range of sectors, the full-service employment practice Glaisyers ETL provides ‘expert and realistic employment advice' to employers on all aspects of day-to-day employee relations, as well as on redundancies, restructurings, terminations, and litigious matters. The group is led by Russell Brown in Manchester, who is a ‘senior and well-respected lawyer affording quality service’. Another key lawyer is Nicola Clarke in Stockport with ‘exceptional legal experience', and she advises on all aspects of employment law and HR matters.

Practice head(s):

Russell Brown


Other key lawyers:

Nicola Clarke


Testimonials

I would highly recommend Nicola Clarke for her exceptional legal experience and unwavering support during a challenging legal matter. Nicola’s professionalism and attention to detail was instrumental in achieving a favourable outcome for me.’

‘Nicola Clarke put my mind at ease and took the time to understand the situation and filled me with confidence.’

‘They always provide advice that is easy to understand and they always work with you in order to find the right solution for the issue.’

Work highlights


  • Assisted an international business with securing the exit of a senior employee who was suspected of serious malpractice.
  • Advising a school on an ongoing matter relating to a complex six-figure grievance and discrimination claim brought by a former employee.
  • Defended a charity successfully against claims brought by a former employee for disability discrimination, sex discrimination, harassment, victimisation, whistleblowing detriment, and automatic unfair dismissal.

Gorvins Solicitors

Gorvins Solicitors provides a broad range of employment services with specialist knowledge in matters involving redundancies and bulk settlement agreement exercises, disciplinary actions, corporate support, and HR work. The group also has extensive experience representing clients in discrimination and unfair dismissal disputes in the Employment Tribunal.

Key clients

Tetrosyl Limited


Sheet Piling UK Limited


Dean Group International Limited


Kisimul School Holdings Limited


Select E Commerce Limited


Multi ply Limited


Tailor Made Commercial Limited


TMT Commercial Contractors Limited


Rowlinson Group Limited


Odd Arts Limited


Satake Europe Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised the shareholders of Print Image Network Limited on the sale of the entire issued share capital of Print Image Network Limited to a new company backed by Owner Venture Managers and funded via 7 figure loan from Frontier Development capital.
  • Advised the shareholders on the sale of the entire issued share capital of Quiqsolutions Ltd to The Citation Group.

Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers Ltd

Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers Ltd in Manchester can uniquely offer both employment and financial advice to employment clients across a broad range of industries, with particular expertise in the medical and professional services sectors. The group is co-led by seasoned employment lawyer Alan Lewis, who advises professional services firms, GP practices, accountants, and SMEs on a broad range of employment matters and HR issues, and employment specialist Susan Mayall, who assists a wide variety of employers in many sectors with the entire gamut of employment matters.

Practice head(s):

Alan Lewis; Susan Mayall


Key clients

Rayburn Trading Limited


Jack Ross Chartered Accountants


Family Care Group Limited


Phase 3 Consulting Ltd


Acumen Financial Advisers Limited


RJ Gill Solicitors


PLS Solicitors


Work highlights


  • Acting for approximately 60 employer clients on a retainer basis, providing employment law advice on a wide range of employment law issues affecting their businesses.
  • Acting for a HR consultancy in relation to two sets of restrictive covenant disputes with both former and new employees.

Bradshaw Trees Law

Boutique employment practice Bradshaw Trees Law in Stockport advises a variety of clients, including national companies, SMEs, and high-net-worth individuals across many sectors, with particular expertise in the retail industry. Practice head Karen Sanderson has ‘an excellent reputation in the market‘ and extensive experience advising clients on all aspects of contentious and non-contentious employment work. Elizabeth Ebrahimi joined the group from Gateley Legal in December 2023.

Practice head(s):

Karen Sanderson


Other key lawyers:

Elizabeth Ebrahimi


Testimonials

‘I have worked with Karen Sanderson for years and she is a very capable solicitor. Hardworking, knows the law well and good with clients. ’

‘Karen Sanderson is superb. Nothing is too much trouble.’

‘Super responsive and prepared to always go the extra mile. Commercial and prepared to give a view rather than sitting on the fence.’

Key clients

Profile Security Services Ltd


Lancashire Eccles Cakes


Interfloor Limited


Scanwel Ltd


Walker Lovell


Connaught Facilities Ltd


Lawler & Co Estate Agents


Flock Development & Research Ltd


Shannon R. & D. Limited


Vita Student & Select Property Group


Evolution Aqua Limited


ACE Scaffolding (Mcr) Ltd


Heligan Group LLP


DentalCare@62


Laeto Trading Ltd


Eftec Ltd


The Recycling Association


Deskpro Ltd


Ink Clothing Ltd


Brandalley UK Ltd


The Head Partnership


Eftec Ltd


Vendcare Ltd


Work highlights


  • Advised Ink Clothing Limited on the employment aspects of their acquisition of Hunter Boots Limited and Hoodrich Limited.
  • Advised Brandalley on the employment aspects of their acquisition of Internet Fusion Group and The Edit.
  • Represented Profile Security Services in all employment claims received in 2023.

Clarke Willmott LLP

The employment group at Clarke Willmott LLP in Manchester has a ‘great client focus and astute understanding of the commercial realities of litigation'. The team provides an extensive legal and HR service for employers and senior executives, and has particular expertise in the financial services, manufacturing, and sports sectors. Praised as a ‘walking bible of employment legislation', practice head Louise Rogers has a broad employment practice and is especially capable handling dismissal, discrimination, and whistleblowing claims, as well as being particularly knowledgeable in the banking and financial services, technology, and media sectors.

Practice head(s):

Louise Rogers


Testimonials

‘The practice has proved invaluable in its understanding and appreciation of issues relating to charitable organisations and the impact they might have. Working across their team of specialists within given disciplines we have been able to navigate tricky positions without heavily impacting on our finances.’

‘The attorneys are so responsive and give you peace of mind that your case is high priority.’

A full-service firm with high-calibre specialist lawyers. Seamless operation and first-class client service.

‘Clarke Willmott were extremely helpful in assisting us with our case. They tailored our experience and allocated an individual for us to deal with, which really helped. We were able to deal with our case efficiently and effectively and really recommend Clarke Willmott.’

‘Great client focus and astute understanding of the commercial realities of litigation.’

‘Louise Rogers was fantastic throughout. She never failed to assist in our needs and as our case was urgent, she ensured she gave us the time we needed.’

‘Louise Rogers is a walking bible of employment legislation. She is a strategic and smooth operator, able to think on her feet and has a clear eye at all times on her client’s objectives. A smart, no-nonsense lawyer who is well regarded by her clients and colleagues.’

‘The partners we have worked with genuinely place themselves in our shoes when considering our needs and offer the advice and guidance we need rather than what we would like. They work tirelessly in building and maintaining a strong bond of trust which we truly appreciate.’

Martin & Co

Praised for its ‘consistent personal service to a very high standard', Martin & Co in Manchester is a specialist employment firm that has particular expertise in executive termination work and discrimination matters. The group is sought after by clients in the education sector and frequently represents colleges, academies, and high-profile private schools, and is also skilled in industries such as IT and construction. The group is led by employment specialist John Martin, who is ‘knowledgeable in his field of expertise' and has a particular focus on discrimination matters, boardroom disputes, and reorganisations. He is also a seasoned Employment Tribunal advocate.

Practice head(s):

John Martin


Testimonials

‘Consistent personal service to a very high standard. Put the time in to get to know our company and how we work.’

‘Straight talk without legal jargon.’

‘Strengths are responsiveness and clarity of advice.’

Key clients

St Bede’s College


David Lewis Centre


Oldham College


Acuma


Heaton Moor Medical Group


Heyrod Construction


Esprit Windscreen Repairs


Eurowrap


Opus 4


TJ Refrigeration


Custom Powders


Beara Properties


Hahn Plastics


Unilin Flooring


Concept Cubicle Systems


Satec Service Ltd


Work highlights


  • Defended David Lewis Centre in two multi-day discrimination claims in the Employment Tribunal.
  • Defended TJ Refrigeration in a claim in the Employment Tribunal arising out of TUPE following the win of a multi-store contract with Aldi.
  • Defended Oldham College in a claim for discrimination in the Employment Tribunal.

Peninsula Business Services

Described by clients as ‘adaptable, thorough, highly skilled and involved in each engagement', Peninsula Business Services in Manchester advises a broad range of businesses on issues relating to employment, HR, and health and safety, and is particularly skilled at representing clients in the Employment Tribunal. Practice head Robert McKellar has extensive experience with employment issues, such as HR, recruitment, investigations, grievances and disciplinary matters, and data protection, while seasoned litigator James Gilbert advises on both contentious and non-contentious employment matters. Smaira Younis and Ed McFarlane are both key contacts for Employment Tribunal advocacy.

Practice head(s):

Robert McKellar


Other key lawyers:

James Gilbert; Smaira Younis; Ed McFarlane


Testimonials

‘The employment team are very helpful and able to guide all our management teams through the steps they need to do clearly.’

‘The legal team of Peninsula have been very good. They have always kept us involved in all the steps of the legal process, providing advice on what our next steps should be to achieve the best result.’

‘Their advice is clear and working with one person instead of several makes building a trusting relationship easier.’

Key clients

The CO-OP


Carlisle Support Services


ICTS


Creative Support


Circle Health Group


Six Oak Home Care Ltd


Stepway


Nevis Range


Intelcia


Belong Limited


David Lloyd Leisure Ltd


Merkur Casino Holdings UK


Work highlights


  • Representing Bauhaus Educational Services in the Employment Appeal Tribunal following the Employment Tribunal’s earlier decision not to strike out the claimant’s claims in a complex discrimination claim.
  • Representing Creative Support Ltd in a four-day final hearing at Manchester Employment Tribunal.
  • Representing a respondent in a five-day employment tribunal hearing at Leeds Employment Tribunal, in relation to a complex discrimination case.

People Legal

People Legal in Cheshire is a ‘highly collaborative and modern' specialist employment law firm that advises businesses and individuals on all aspects of employment law. The ‘fantastic' practice head Chris McAvoy-Newns is an employment expert with a broad practice whose experience includes acting for both employers and employees in all types of discrimination, whistleblowing, and unfair and constructive dismissal cases. Another key contact is Rizwana Ishaq, who is ‘highly knowledgeable on all employment matters' and also acts as an independent workplace investigator in grievance and disciplinary cases.

Practice head(s):

Chris McAvoy-Newns


Other key lawyers:

Rizwana Ishaq


Testimonials

‘This practice distinguishes itself through its unparalleled commitment to understanding our business and industry, ensuring that their advice is not only legally sound but also commercially practical.’

‘They are responsive and personable and are able to advise on a broad range of employment issues. They are highly commercial and always have the best interests of the client in mind.’

‘Rizwana Ishaq is quick to respond to all queries and makes time for her clients. Highly knowledgeable on all employment matters.’

Key clients

Plxsur Limited


Prevayl Limited


Deel


Appfollow


Daintree Wealth Management


Retrofit works


Great Influence Limited


Work highlights


  • Represented a large employee of Record organisation in respect of a complex Employment Tribunal claim for whistleblowing which included successfully defending an application for interim relief.
  • Represented an international mobile marketing company in respect of a complex Employment Tribunal claim including complaints of Equal Pay.
  • Advised the Director of Innovation and Partnerships at a major UK bank on her exit from the bank, securing a settlement package in excess of £200,000.

Primas

Primas in Manchester has ‘a first-class team' that advises clients on a variety of employment issues across multiple sectors. The group is led by employment expert David Walton, who advises both businesses and individuals across the full spectrum of contentious and non-contentious employment work, and is also a skilled litigator at the Employment Tribunal. Another notable practitioner is Danielle Ayres, who advises on all aspects of employment law and has niche knowledge in pregnancy and maternity-related issues.

Practice head(s):

David Walton


Other key lawyers:

Danielle Ayres


Testimonials

‘The employment team demonstrate a level of commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for their clients that is rarely seen in modern litigation. Primas put people ahead of profit, ensuring that those who have been wronged are seen and heard by those responsible.’

‘A first-class team with a personal approach to their work that sets them apart.’

‘Danielle Ayers genuinely cares about her clients and the sense of responsibility is present from the outset of each case.’

Ward Hadaway LLP

Co-led by Laura Darnley, who joined from Brabners LLP in August 2023, and Caroline Shafar, the employment practice at Ward Hadaway LLP has a ‘really skilled and experienced team with a focus on finding practical solutions'. The group advises on all aspects of employment matters with sector-specific knowledge in industries such as transport, technology, life sciences, healthcare, manufacturing, and financial services. The team also has considerable experience supporting the corporate and commercial teams with employment advice relating to complex transactions. The firm welcomed Charlotte Nuttall from Napthens LLP in March 2023.

Practice head(s):

Caroline Shafar; Laura Darnley


Other key lawyers:

Charlotte Nuttall


Testimonials

‘The team provide prompt and reliable advice on a range of employment issues.’

‘The Ward Hadaway team are professional, provide great advice aligned to our business needs and give me confidence as a client on how I can proceed with any issues I have consulted with them.’

‘Ward Hadaway provide exceptional employment law support, taking time to understand the issues and exploring options for consideration.  They are customer focused, taking time to understand the business and how they can most effectively support us.’

‘Really skilled and experienced team with a focus on finding practical solutions.’

‘Laura Darnley handled an employment law matter for our company. She was kept in contact throughout with regular updates and was always extremely balanced with her approach and advice. She understood the desire of the business to dispute the claims but managed expectations against the potential commercial risks.’

‘Caroline Shafar has provided practical, structured support on several complex employment law and industrial relations matters in a very accessible style.’

‘The strength and breadth of expertise in the employment team is excellent.’

‘They care. They are professional and personable. They invest time in equipping you with the necessary tools and knowledge tailored to your day-to-day responsibilities.’

Key clients

Go North West Limited


Technation Group Limited


Recycling Lives


IfM Bolton Limited


Love Sugar Science


Notorious Communications


Assetz SME Capital Limited


GN Hearing UK Ltd


GN Audio UK Limited