Firms To Watch: Employment

rradar fields an ‘approachable and knowledgeable ‘ team which is ‘available to answer queries and make the whole process as smooth as possible’. At the Birmingham office, Balbir Bird is among the names to note.
Lodders Solicitors LLP has Damian Kelly at the helm; he is praised by clients as someone who’ always responds in the appropriate time scales‘ and who will ‘will work with you to find a resolution‘.

Employment in West Midlands

DLA Piper

The ‘fair, reasonable, but very sharpEmma Phillips heads the department at DLA Piper. Phillips has a wealth of transactional, litigation and cross-border project experience. Sandra Wallace is another leading light who continues to manage an enviable employment client portfolio advising on a whole host of issues from business reorganisations to senior executive management issues. Wallace also has a keen interest in diversity matters. Lisa Hodgson has significant experience in the consumer goods sectors and leads the relationships with a number of well-known names in the high-end retail arena.  In addition, the team garners praise for its high-profile and complex employment tribunal and High Court litigation expertise.



Practice head(s):

Emma Phillips


Other key lawyers:

Sandra Wallace; Lisa Hodgson; Bethan Odey; Matthew Jeavons; Samantha Haglington


Testimonials

‘Great strength in depth, responsive and very commercial in approach. Makes efforts to engage with and understand our business‘.

‘Emma Phillips – incredible technical knowledge, highly engaging and willing to roll sleeves up and provide pro-active support. Also helps coordinate billing issues globally, and the provision of a global employment law helpline‘.

Lisa Hodgson – very responsive, excellent sounding board and good understanding of our business. Other honourable mentions: Sam Haglington, Bethan Odey and Matt Jevons‘.

Lisa Hodgson is an exceptional lawyer. She has always explored every angle of a particular issue and her advice is the perfect mix of commercial and strategic while being rooted in a really strong understanding of the legal issues at play. Any client is in safe hands with Lisa on their case‘.

What was immediately noticeable about DLA was the diverse team and at a senior level too. This is always great to see’.

‘My time working with Sandra Wallace, is always pleasant. Sandra, is very pragmatic in her approach, and always provided sound advice which enabled me to go back to the business and explain things with ease’.

Key clients

C&J Clark International UK Limited (Clarks)


Boparan Limited (2 Sisters Food Group and Northern Foods)


Synopsys, Inc


Shure UK Limited


Hilton Hotels UK Limited


Genting Casinos


Sodexo


National Grid


Lomondo Limited (Melia Hotels)


Dignity plc


Crawford & Company


Superdry


Valentino


Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy


Parfums Christian Dior


RCI Europe


Prologis


Infosy


Work highlights


  • Acting for the official receiver on issues relating to the collapse of the Carillion group in January 2018. The insolvency of the group resulted in the dismissal of most of the group’s employees in the UK (c.14,500 dismissals).
  • Asked by its longstanding client London Stock Exchange to assist with a number of changes to contracts of employment across 27 jurisdictions.
  • Represented a major client in respect of a complex unfair dismissal and discrimination matter (involving historic allegations of race and pregnancy/maternity leave discrimination).

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP

At the Birmingham office of Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLPAudrey Elliott heads the department that acts for a number of FTSE 100 companies together with various global and Fortune 500 companies. It also acts for several public sector organisations as well as educational institutions. The group is well-equipped to handle tribunal work, labour relations and transactional matters such as outsourcing and business reorganisations. Hannah Wilkins specialises in supporting global companies (especially those in the IT sector), as well as UK plcs, on various employment matters. Principal associate, Michael Hardiman, is a known name for his employment tribunal work and for cross-border expertise.


Practice head(s):

Audrey Elliott; Mark Fletcher


Other key lawyers:

Hannah Wilkins; Michael Hardiman


Key clients

BMI Group


NEXT PLC


Skanska UK PLC


DFDS Seaways Limited (and group)


Carpetright Limited


Pendragon Plc


Specsavers Optical Group Limited (and other subsidiary companies)


Sandwell College


Gowling WLG

Headed by Jane Fielding, the team at Gowling WLG advises a vast array of UK and international private and public sector clients on the full gamut of employment, labour and equality matters. It specialises in key sectors such as manufacturing, life sciences, technology and central government. Its contentious expertise covers High Court business protection litigation through to complex discrimination and whistleblowing tribunal claims. Martin Chitty acts for some of the UK’s largest housing associations and retailers - he advises on all areas of employment law while overseeing the team’s work on corporate transactions. Jonathan Chamberlain  has particular expertise in advising on business protection issues.


Practice head(s):

Jane Fielding


Other key lawyers:

Martin Chitty; Jonathan Chamberlain


Key clients

Jacobs


Birmingham Organising Committee for the 2022 Commonwealth Games Ltd


London Borough of Croydon


Dudley Building Society


The Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis


Sanctuary Group


Credit Karma


Cummins


Work highlights


  • Acting as the Official Legal Advisers for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games – the employment team’s involvement in B2022 was to provide support on all workforce issues.

Pinsent Masons LLP

The large employment practice at Pinsent Masons LLP has a stellar reputation for its work with local, national and international household name clients. Under the joint leadership of Jonathan Coley and Helen Corden, it also acts for over 30 universities. Coley excels at defending strategic and high-value claims that could have a major reputational impact. Corden plays a pivotal role in the practice and is the UK head of Employment and Reward. Corden has particular expertise in TUPE, outsourcing and discrimination matters. Linda Jones has considerable expertise in gender and social mobility issues. Legal director, Rebecca Stephen, advises many clients in the higher education and financial services sectors.


Practice head(s):

Jonathan Coley; Helen Corden


Other key lawyers:

Rebecca Stephen; Linda Jones; Sam Harris


Testimonials

Good range of lawyers with detailed knowledge of the specialist area – with a commercial focus. Rebecca Stephen – stand-out’.

‘What makes this team unique is that they work together with each other exceptionally well which results in a very seamless service to clients’.

‘Sam Harris picked up a tribunal matter for us midway but he knew the matter inside out within days and delivered what we required perfectly.  (Detailed, strategic advice as well as legal advice, timely, patient, and a pleasure to deal with.)’.

Key clients

Serco Limited


Fujitsu Services Limited


St Modwen PLC


Centrica PLC


Homeserve Membership Limited


E.on UK PLC


Univrsity College London


RAC


University of the Arts


Work highlights


  • Instructed by the Respondent and successfully defended an Employment Tribunal claim of alleged disability discrimination (failure to make reasonable adjustments) relating to a Claimant suffering from Primary Reading Epilepsy.
  • Continuing to manage a number of Tribunal portfolios for its clients.

Averta Employment Lawyers LLP

Exceptional partnersAlan Jones  and David Sykes, co-head the ‘highly skilled’ team at Averta Employment Lawyers LLP.  The 'responsive and collaborative' group focuses on the employment law needs of directors, managers, senior executives and other professionals. It thrives on negotiating exit packages, settlement agreements and discrimination claims. The group is active in the private and the public sectors and is also adept at advising on post-termination restrictions and TUPE transfers. Recently, it has seen an increase in corporate and SME work. Consultant, David Beswick, is another known name in the market. Izzy Canning is an able associate.



Practice head(s):

Alan Jones; David Sykes


Other key lawyers:

Alan Dark; Izzy Canning ; David Beswick


Testimonials

‘In my experience, the firm achieves a perfect balance between personal contact combined with a wider team of professionals when needed. It is highly specialised in employment law, and handling sensitive or conflict situations’.

The service at Averta was very person centred and both my legal needs and personal needs were always considered’.

Alan Jones helped me handle a very difficult employment situation. He grasped the facts quickly; gave clear, experienced and imaginative advice; and was always available when I needed him. His robust negotiation led to a swift exit for me, with a very good result’.

‘Alan Jones and David Sykes are very experienced employment advisers, and no issue is impenetrable. Their approach immediately takes the stress and anxiety away for senior individuals’.

‘Alan Jones is very commercial, recognises what his client’s objective is and works hard to find the best solution for his client. David Sykes is focussed, driven and easy to deal with. Izzy Canning is a rising star’.

Alan Dark has provided an exceptional level of service once again last year. Balancing a pragmatic approach and sound commercial acumen. Alan has always been very responsive and solutions focused’.

‘Personable lawyer. Alan Jones was excellent to work with. He was reassuring when I was unsure and clear about the consequences of decisions in the short and long term’.

David Sykes – technical but highly practical and always solution focussed. Always available and easy to talk to. Highly recommended’.

Work highlights


  • Representing three directors of a national firm of accountants in respect of their unfair dismissal following the sale of their shares in the business.
  • Acting for a European director of an American company based in Switzerland in respect of the termination of his secondment.
  • Acting for a director/shareholder of a construction business in relation to historic allegations of sexual harassment

Browne Jacobson LLP

The versatile team at Browne Jacobson LLP, advises its national and international clients on the full range of employment matters. Key clients include household names, large multi-academy trusts and public and private healthcare organisations as well as central and local government bodies. Peter Jones’ work spans both contentious and non-contentious issues. James Tait  predominantly advises clients in the private sector and has a keen focus on TUPE compliance as well as the protection of trade secrets. Jacqui Atkinson is well-regarded for her experience of advising NHS organisations, trust boards and senior NHS managers.

Practice head(s):

Peter Jones; James Tait; Jacqui Atkinson


Testimonials

‘Browne Jacobson really understand their clients. They take the time to get to know us and this allows them to cater their advice to us.’

‘Excellent customer service, response times; and one can trust in the advice offered.’

Key clients

Hiscox


Lumentum Ltd


Bureau Veritas UK Limited


Crown Commercial Services


Platform Housing Group


East Midlands Ambulance NHS Trust


TT Electronics Plc


Transalliance


EM Lawshare


R Capital


Gateley Legal

The ‘professional and practical’ team at Gateley Legal receives plaudits for its ‘solutions focused’ advice. Under the leadership of the ‘commercially minded’ Benedict Gorner, the group receives a steady flow of  high-value and complex instructions. It continues to advise on a number of large-scale projects involving proposed site closures and on complex restructuring deals. Merran Sewell regularly supports clients with complex discriminatory and grievance issues and on change management programmes. Senior associate, Joanne Duck, continues to operate across a broad spectrum of industries including logistics, finance, retail, healthcare, manufacturing, construction and education.



Practice head(s):

Benedict Gorner


Other key lawyers:

Merran Sewell; Joanne Duck


Testimonials

‘Gateley has provided exceptional support on a range of extraordinarily challenging legal matters in a very customer focused and results orientated way. I have had exceptional service from Ben Gorner and the team’.

‘Benedict Gorner is the reason I choose to work with Gateley time and time again. He makes himself available at short notice and makes great efforts to understand our business’.

‘Merran Sewell is always both pragmatic and commercial. Her advice is always tailored to us. She is supported by Joanna Duck who again is wonderfully personable and a fabulous communicator’.

‘Joanne Duck – we have the greatest confidence in her ability to advise on issues in terms that are clear and concise. Joanne is knowledgeable and her professional advice is balanced and supportive’ .

‘Joanne Duck and Merran Sewell – responsive, friendly, patient, willing to explain, give practical guidance, commercially savvy. Verbal advice is always followed up comprehensively in writing’.

Two partners stand out for me – Merran Sewell and Benedict Gorner. I have worked closely with both individuals and both are a joy to work with. They are pragmatic, honest as well as generous with their time and advice. They are also extremely grounded and relatable’.

High level of experienced partner attention, empathetic with applying the law to ‘live’ situations, with good support and at reasonable cost. Ben Gorner’.

Joanne Duck very quickly got to grips with the main issues and was able to advise me as to what I should expect. The final outcome was better than I had hoped for and throughout the process I was always made to feel I had “somebody on my side”‘.

Key clients

AGA Rangemaster


Arts Council England


BNP Paribas Personal Finance


Busy Bees Nurseries


Caparo Plc


Cath Kidston


Cox Automotive


Dune Group


ESF Capital / ThinCats


Funrise International


Goodyear Tyres


Gymshark Limited


Intermedia


Hurst Point Group


Leadec Limited


Lincat Limited


RSM UK


Sanlam Investment and Wealth Management


Sevacare (UK) Limited


TS Tech UK Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised Gymshark in connection with its plans to open its flagship store in London which was its first ever permanent physical retail site.
  • Advised a major construction and fit-out business in relation to the closure of their UK operations, project managing the redundancy and consultation process for over 40 members of staff.
  • Successfully advised and represented a client in respect of a holiday pay Employment Tribunal claim.

Mills & Reeve LLP

Mills & Reeve LLP fields a ‘strong’ employment team that acts for a large number of high-profile clients across the private and public sectors. It continues to be busy advising on numerous complex employment cases and has provided employment support on many key corporate transactions and projects. Jog Hundle is highly regarded for her work in the health and care sectors. Nick Abbott  is renowned for his work with clients in the education sector. The ‘very well respectedRichard Santy continues to act for several football clubs and has represented sports governing bodies on some complex cases. Richard Barker is also recommended. Jameel Mann joined the team as a principal associate from Knights plc.

Practice head(s):

David Mills


Other key lawyers:

Jog Hundle; Nick Abbott; Richard Santy; Fiona Goodman; Siân Jackson; Joanna Burrows; Jameel Mann; Richard Barker; Jameel Mann


Key clients

Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust


River Island


Jaguar Land Rover Limited (“JLR”)


Triumph Motorcycles Limited


Topps Tiles


Lloyds Pharmacy Limited


Leicester University Hospitals NHS Trust


Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust


The University of Birmingham


University of Sussex


West Midlands Ambulance Service University NHS Foundation Trust


Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust


The Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust


Shakespeare Martineau LLP

Shakespeare Martineau LLP has considerable strength in the education sector and is particularly adept at advising on international collaborations between UK universities and universities overseas. It is also skilled at advising on large restructuring exercises,  senior management departures and at handling complex employment tribunal litigation. David Browne has particular expertise in the education sector along with Tom Long.  Michael Hibbs is well-regarded for his work across a wide range of sectors including education, logistics, manufacturing and insurance. Matt McDonald is another name to note.

Practice head(s):

Philip Pepper, David Browne


Other key lawyers:

Tom Long; Michael Hibbs; Matt McDonald


Testimonials

‘Shakespeare Martineau take the time and effort to really get to know their clients and organisations. The team are dynamic, professional and understanding. The team seem knowledgeable and are always friendly and efficient’.

‘The individuals I work with are kind, and take a balanced view on the legal approach to take. They are honest if I need to do something differently or they need more information before advising. I am confident in their abilities, no matter what I need support with’.

‘I work closely with Mike Hibbs and have done for many years, he knows me and my organisation well. He understands the internal and external pressures we face, and what we need to consider when dealing with employment legislation matters’.

‘Responsive and extremely pragmatic, they have a good understanding of our organisation and the wider HE sector’.

‘Whole team are great – David Brown especially..’.

‘Client focussed, extremely professional and responsive. The team are excellent practitioners, who have a broad and in depth understanding of the HE sector’.

‘David Browne is superb. He is a highly experienced lawyer with in depth knowledge of employment matters. His understanding and significant experience of dealing with the Higher Education Sector is invaluable to clients’.

‘David Browne is solutions focussed and instils confidence to clients through the pragmatic advice and guidance he gives‘.

Key clients

The University of Cambridge


Hodge Bank


The University of Warwick


The Royal College of Art


Valsoft


The University of Hertfordshire


Capital City Colleges Group


The University of West London


Bromford Industries


SOAS University of London


ArcelorMittal


Loughborough University


D4T4 Solutions Plc


Ansell (UK) Ltd


CBSO


Solihull College and University Centre


Staffordshire University


University of Wolverhampton


Sheffield Hallam


Work highlights


  • Undertaking a sensitive investigation regarding allegations of bullying and harassment in a culturally diverse department. Also advising on a complex grievance and counter grievance investigation involving separate allegations of race discrimination, bullying and harassment.

Shoosmiths LLP

With the ‘very well-respectedCharlie Rae at the helm at Shoosmiths LLP, the practice receives plaudits for providing an ‘excellent service’. It handles a sizeable employment tribunal caseload for many major multi-national clients and has also significant experience of handling sensitive, senior executive exits in regulated sectors such as financial services. In addition, the group acts for a wide range of clients in the public, private and ‘third’ sectors. Other areas of focus include advising on business reorganisations and complex TUPE matters. Nick Vernon was promoted to the partnership.


Practice head(s):

Charlie Rae


Other key lawyers:

Nick Vernon


Testimonials

‘Shoosmiths in Birmingham use friendly language that is easily understood. They explain case management very well and offer us all the information so we can make informed decisions. Charlie Rae’.

‘Charlie Rae always goes the extra mile and provides excellent advice and counsel. Excellent customer service and always quick response times. He has integrity and has built trusted relationships with me and my colleagues. In my view he is the best’.

‘Highly competent technically, but more importantly highly personable. Charlie Rae has exceptional relationship building skills and oodles of expertise, empathy and pragmatism’.

‘Charlie Rae understands the industry I work in (FinTech) and ensures he approaches situations with us in a way that works well for a fast paced scale up environment’.

‘The team are very responsive and quick to turn things around. The team are very personable, friendly and easy to talk with. The team are always available directly for calls and if not available will always ensure others support. The advice the team give is relevant and helpful’.

‘The team have a collaborative approach and are open to working through different options and solutions with our own team’.

‘High expertise, approachable, knowledgeable, adaptable to our needs’.

‘Practical advice. Make a point of understanding my business and its legal needs’.

Key clients

The Law Society


Kuehne + Nagel


Aramark


Stellantis Group


British Association of Social Workers


Idverde Limited


Randstad


PRS for Music


The National Exhibition Centre


Jensten Group


Royal Institute of British Architects


Linnaeus Group


Vanderlande Industries


Work highlights


  • Successfully defended a high value whistleblowing claim brought by the former Chief Financial Officer of a financial services client.
  • Provided employment support for a large insurance group client on several of its key corporate transactions.
  • Advised Vanderlande Industries in the defence of a contested application by a Trade Union to the Central Arbitration Committee.

Squire Patton Boggs

Led by Charlie Frost, the team at Squire Patton Boggs garners praise for its ability to ‘always provide timely and practical advice’. It handles the full gamut of employment matters and has increasingly been advising on investigations and whistleblowing claims as well as diversity and inclusion issues. It receives a steady flow of instructions from international and blue-chip companies and has substantial experience in the sports arena too. It regularly advises on complex restructurings and other matters including high-value and complex litigation. The ‘really responsiveRamez Moussa  plays a pivotal role in the department.

Practice head(s):

Charlie Frost


Other key lawyers:

Ramez Moussa; Sarah Wilkinson; Sophie Copson; Joanna Galbraith


Testimonials

‘Each member of the Squire Patton Boggs team is able to turn their hand to all areas of employment law asked of them with ease. They are available whenever is required and the advice provided is always pragmatic allowing the business to move forward with confidence’.

‘Ramez Moussa and Sophie Copson are both efficient, detailed, pragmatic, give great advice and alternatives to support the business. Honestly feel they are an extension to my team and genuinely care also’.

‘Charlie Frost, Joanna Galbraith, Sarah Wilkinson – All exceptional professionals. Highly reliable, trustworthy and I fully appreciate the personal service, response rate and passion to deliver more’.

‘This team provide outstanding levels of service. They are well organised within their own team which means they are able to provide a quick response to new cases as well as showing a huge level of dedication and personal commitment to ongoing cases’.

‘Ramez Moussa is hugely talented. He has a very easy going manner but is quick and astute, a good listener, incredibly knowledgeable, and manages to explain complexity in a very clear way’.

‘Sophie Copson is a pleasure to work with. Sophie picks up on what we are saying and understands the question we are still trying to formulate, giving us a summary of issues with ease. Gives neat, clear options and recommendations’.

‘Sarah Wilkinson is a pragmatic lawyer that gets the job done’.

‘Ramez Moussa provides high quality employment related advice on a wide range of matters. Ram stands out as being extremely knowledgeable, reliable and really approachable. He asks great questions to fully understand the matter at hand when providing support and advice, which is always pragmatic and really useful’.

Key clients

Aggregate Industries / Holcim Group


Bayer Plc


Birch Hospitality


BDO LLP


Carl Zeiss


CEVA Logistics


Citron Hygiene


Dalata Group


Essilor Luxottica


Helios Technologies Inc


Jewson / Saint-Gobain


Klarent Hospitality


Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland (formerly Jurys Inn)/Fattal Hotel Group


Logicalis Group


National Australia Bank


Ontic


Roper Technologies Inc.


Ryder Inc/Ryder UK


Theobalds Hospitality


West Bromwich Albion Football Club


Work highlights


  • Assisted Ryder with proposed exit of its operations in the UK and Europe over a 12-18 month period.
  • Advising one of the world’s leading hotel companies with over 51 hotels in the UK and Ireland alone, on all of its day-to-day employment and immigration-related matters and in particular on the employment law implications arising from its acquisition of The Dilly, one of London’s most iconic hotels located in the heart of Piccadilly Circus
  • Reappointed by Sanit Gobain/Jewson as their exclusive go-to external legal provider for all employment tribunal claims.

Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP

Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP has a thriving employment practice that has considerable sector strength in the health and social care arena. Under the direction of Anna Dabek, it is also lauded for its experience in the charities and local government sectors along with its expertise in housing and education. The team covers a broad range of issues from advising on strike actions and TUPE matters to resolving employment disputes and advising on working time regulations. Matthew Gregson and Matthew Wort are also well-regarded.

Practice head(s):

Anna Dabek


Other key lawyers:

Matthew Wort; Matthew Gregson; Hannah Bollard


Testimonials

The team are extremely knowledgeable about the employment issues affecting our sector. The team has a range of expertise so no matter what the specific issue, they have people to support us‘.

Matthew Wort and Hannah Bollard are both experts and able to provide complex advice in an understandable way. No issue is too small or seemingly too simple and they are always ready to guide us in our thinking even if more formal advice isn’t require’.

‘The ACS team are very approachable, pragmatic and helpful’.

‘Huge expertise and knowledge, excellent at working in partnership and very supportive of the care and support sector’.

‘The individuals are very responsive and pro-active. They help us to explore more complex issues with the law relating to government policy & proposals and they make sure we don’t miss any important issues‘.

‘The Team have a blend of different experiences to help us steer through the basic, to the very complex of issues, on a wide range of topics. They’re very professional, very friendly and work with us to find a solution’.

‘Matthew Wort is a great person to work with. He has got such a breadth of experience with a very curious mind and is really able to think out of the box to help find solutions’.

Key clients

Mind


Barnardo’s


The Salvation Army


Everyone Active


London Borough of Haringey


Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council


Homecare Association (formerly known as UKHCA)


Thirteen Housing Group Limited


Baptist Union of Great Britain


Sodexo Home Care UK & Ireland


Work highlights


  • Advised Thirteen Housing Group, one of the largest employers in the Northeast, when faced with strike action over the 2022 pay award.
  • Successfully defended a claim for Derby City Council, which was facing a costly unfair dismissal claim.
  • When faced with the Supreme Court decision in the Harpur v Brazel case in the summer of 2022 (concerning holiday pay for part year workers) , the team provided sector specific advice to clients in health and social care, housing and education.

Freeths LLP

The ‘reliable and responsive’ team at Freeths LLP acts for many key private sector clients as well as a significant number of public and educational sector clients. Rebecca Sawbridge heads the Birmingham employment team and is skilled at advising on all areas of employment law. The group is renowned for its work on complex restructures and TUPE matters as well as matters relating to the ‘gig economy’ and employment status.

Practice head(s):

Rena Magdani; David Potter; Rebecca Sawbridge


Key clients

Goodridge Limited


Paul Smith Limited


AP Racing Limited


Birmingham Metropolitan College


Higgs LLP

The 'responsive’ team at Higgs LLP is headed by the ‘highly rated and excellent' Tim Jones. Jones is particularly recommended for his employment tribunal advocacy as well as for his advice on confidentiality and restraint of trade clauses.  The practice continues to be best known for its advice to SMEs, owner managed businesses and their families, primarily in the West Midlands region.


Practice head(s):

Tim Jones


Other key lawyers:

Joanne Walker; Katherine Cooke


Testimonials

‘They are exceptionally professional in their approach and any questions are answered without delay’.

Tim Jones is extremely knowledgeable. Tim has a very down to earth friendly approach and is excellent at explaining the law in ‘lay mans’ terms’.

‘Tim Jones at Higgs is my prime contact, he always provides excellent guidance and responds quickly to requests for assistance‘.

Key clients

Jonathan Lee Recruitment Limited


Elta Group Limited


The Walsall Wheelbarrow Company Limited


N E Downing (Blackheath) Limited


T(N)S Catering Management Limited


Teacheractive Limited


Stiltz Limited


Harris Lamb Limited


First Blue Group


Dudley CVS


Midland Tool & Design Limited


JW Hinks LLP


RCL Partners LLP


Work highlights


  • Advised T(n)S Catering Management Limited on HR and employment law matters.  Advised upon and negotiated the TUPE provisions in a commercial contract with a significant new client.
  • Advised NE Downing (Blackheath) Limited on HR and employment law matters.
  • Advised Midland Tool & Design Limited on HR and employment law matters.

Irwin Mitchell

At the Birmingham office of Irwin Mitchell, Elaine Huttley  is recommended for her work on a wide variety of employment advisory matters and acts for high-street and household name clients. Huttley also has a special interest in advising on the employment aspects of shareholder/director management disputes. Donna Seferta  has a particular specialism in contentious matters and frequently advises on a wide range of tribunal claims such as discrimination actions, whistleblowing cases as well as unfair/constructive dismissal claims.


Practice head(s):

Glenn Hayes


Other key lawyers:

Elaine Huttley; Donna Seferta


Testimonials

‘Irwin Mitchell provided outstanding and experienced solicitors/teams who were specialised and had a deep understanding of the relevant laws and regulations. Irwin Mitchell focused on the needs and concerns of my case and provided an excellent service‘.

Key clients

AOC


Costa


Reconomy UK Limited


ThyssenKrupp


Arc Legal Assistance


Gleeson Recruitment Group


Correla


Work highlights


  • Provides independent legal advice to over 100 individuals who were offered enhanced redundancy terms under the terms of settlement agreements.
  • Represented the Claimant in two Employment Tribunal claims against NHS England and NHS Health Education England.
  • It has, once again, been appointed as the sole legal provider of employment law support to the Association of Colleges (AoC).

Lanyon Bowdler

John Merry  leads a ‘professional and approachable’ team at Lanyon Bowdler  that is lauded for its ‘clear and concise advice’. It specialises in TUPE  issues and is also skilled at advising schools and colleges as well as farmers and growers on various employment matters. Another core area of expertise includes advising Court of Protection appointed deputies and case managers on the employment of carers.

Practice head(s):

John Merry


Testimonials

‘Excellent and friendly advice – very clear and pragmatic. Everyone is professional but ‘user friendly”.

‘John Merry – the nicest, most sensible and direct employment lawyer I have ever worked with – a dream‘.

This practice is unique by giving the personal touch and are with you every step of the way. Nothing ever feels like too much trouble and they are open and honest about their costs’.

‘John Merry made everything a lot easier by walking me through what was needed and was always easy to contact either by email or telephone. He has lots of patience and a friendly personality, so I would always recommend him‘.

‘Very competent, helpful and knowledgeable. Quick to reply to matters raised’.

Lanyon and Bowdler are a very `’on the ball’ practice, their knowledge of employment law and up to date case law, makes the more difficult aspects of employee relations easier. They are able to guide my team into a fair approach which does not put the business at risk‘.

‘John Merry is a seasoned solicitor with a vast amount of experience in employment law, his down to earth approach is amazing and we have returned to him time and time again’.

‘John Merry is exceptional. His attention to detail and insights into complex employment law matters has given our business the support and confidence to navigate our way through challenging times’.

Key clients

Plastic Omnium Automotive Limited


Dodd Group


Shropdoc


British Gymnastics


Grange Fencing Limited


St Paul’s Academy Trust


LAF Holdings Limited


Fabric Worldwide Limited


Lugwardine Academy Trust


The 3-18 Academy Trust


Work highlights


  • Advised Plastic Omnium in respect of TUPE in connection with insourcing contracted out logistics services.
  • Advised Plastic Omnium in connection with the UK employment law aspects of its acquisition of ACTIA Power.

VWV

Jane Byford  and Kathy Halliday co-head the department at VWV, which focuses on three key sectors namely education and charities as well as helping its strong commercial client base on a whole host of employment matters. Byford has a wealth of experience of advising universities and FE colleges on employment and HR issues. Halliday is well-regarded for her advice on change management projects and on complex employment litigation.

Practice head(s):

Jane Byford; Kathy Halliday


Other key lawyers:

Lorna Scully; Katie Hurst


Testimonials

‘The team have a wealth of knowledge within the education sector which is a massive benefit. The legal team I have dealt with have always been professional, prompt and highly supportive with a collaborative approach and excellent understanding of our school‘.

‘Kathy Halliday takes the time to understand our organisation and tailor the advice accordingly and we have built an excellent working relationship over the past 2 years. In her absence we have been very satisfied with the advice of Katie Hurst and Lorna Scully‘.

Our main contact was Kathy Halliday. She was pragmatic and pleasant to deal with. She went out of her way to help us reach a resolution‘.

‘Very skilled and able team of employment lawyers‘.

Kathy Halliday is an excellent partner and very knowledgeable‘.

Key clients

Bath Spa University


Birmingham Airport


Birmingham Royal Ballet


Cheltenham Ladies College


De Montfort University


Dudley Academies Trust


Edgbaston High School


Engage, National Association for Gallery Education


Hallfield School


King Edward VI Foundation


Moy Park Limited


New College Swindon


Norland College


Pilgrim’s Pride Limited


RMO International LLP


Society of Radiographers


St Philips Chambers


University of Bath


University of Brighton


University of Derby


Work highlights


  • Advised on the employment implications of establishing Pilgrim’s Shared Services Limited and the transfer of staff from Moy Park Limited and Pilgrim’s Pride (UK) Limited.
  • Following the Supreme Court Judgment in Harpur Trust v Brazel in July 2022, (and having acted for Harpur Trust as a firm throughout the litigation), it has advised a significant number of both maintained and independent schools on the implications of this case on entitlements to holiday pay for their part year workers.
  • Represented a modern university in its defence of a complex set of six employment tribunal claims that were based on  hundreds of allegations stretching back many years, as early as 1990. The majority of the claims were struck out and the remaining claim was withdrawn.

Weightmans LLP

Weightmans LLP has a strong reputation in the hospitality sector and in local government and police. It has a dedicated equal pay team that is led by Jawaid Rehman  that defends a large number of equal pay claims against public sector organisations. Rehman is also recommended for his handling of cases involving embassies. Andrew Forrest  is an experienced advocate in the employment tribunal.

Practice head(s):

Jawaid Rehman


Other key lawyers:

Andrew Forrest


Testimonials

‘Weightmans have some heavyweight UK clients which they service with efficiency, passion and drive’.

‘Jaiwaid Rehman ensures that everything is about the client. He is hyper-focused on their needs and pressure points whilst never losing sight of the bigger picture‘.

Jaiwaid has an encyclopaedic knowledge of equal pay and masses of practical hands on experience which is unrivalled. He is extremely commercial and strategic’.

‘Their level of knowledge of our business and interest in the key root causes of issues. They give considered responses and listen to understand what is exactly happening’.

Key clients

Whitbread Group PLC


Pizza Hut (UK) Limited


English National Ballet


PizzaExpress (Restaurants) Limited


London Business School


Fuller, Smith and Turner PLC


Guoman Thistle Hotels


Government of the State of Kuwait


London Borough of Ealing


Amber Beverages


Work highlights


  • Successfully represented the Government of the State of Kuwait in an Employment Tribunal claim.
  • Represents Whitbread and a number of other household names in respect of their employment Tribunal claims, including issues arising post pandemic involving claims for unfair and automatic unfair dismissal based on whistleblowing (s103A ERA).
  • Operates a HR helpline for London Business School’s HR department.

Bevan Brittan LLP

The employment team at Bevan Brittan LLP has an excellent reputation for its work in the healthcare, housing and local government sectors. In recent years, its work has also expanded more into the private, education and international sphere. Ashley Norman deftly handles a variety of contentious and advisory issues for various large private sector employers and numerous public sector bodies. James Gutteridge is also recommended.


Practice head(s):

Jodie Sinclair; Ashley Norman


Other key lawyers:

James Gutteridge


Testimonials

‘Highly committed and providing sound professional advice’.

‘Ashley Norman is a highly committed, commercially astute individual‘.

Key clients

Staffordshire Fire & Rescue


North East London ICB


South East London ICB


Hillingdon London Borough Council


De Montfort University


Birmingham City University


University of Oxford


Abri Housing Group


YMCA Heart of England


Pioneer Housing Group


Work highlights


  • Successfully defended University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust in a complex ET claim brought by a doctor.
  • Successfully defended Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service from a claim of unfair dismissal and part time worker discrimination.
  • Advising on a workplace investigation and supplying relevant investigator to support on satisfactory resolution.

Capsticks LLP

The employment team at Capsticks LLP has ‘unparalleled experience in the healthcare sector and knows how to litigate employment matters concerning NHS trusts’.  Clients include the NHS and private healthcare providers along with clients in the emergency services, medical technology and the housing and social care arenas. At the Birmingham office, Chloe Edwards and Raj Basi are well regarded. Raj Chahal is also recommended and  Jonathan Lewis is praised for his ‘timely guidance and support’.


Practice head(s):

Victoria Watson


Other key lawyers:

Chloe Edwards; Jonathan Lewis; John Hatton; Raj Basi; Raj Chahal


Testimonials

The Capsticks team is really knowledgeable in the sector, for example with the complexities of medical workforce challenges, but the team is also approachable, friendly and down to earth which supports getting to the nub of issues and advice quickly’.

‘Capsticks’ sector knowledge in employment law is excellent, as is its overall client representation. It is well experienced in NHS employment work‘.

‘John Hatton is thorough and detailed in his preparation and representation of his clients, for example, I’ve seen his input on interlocutory issues that require written representations and those representations are on point and persuasive‘.

‘What this team don’t know about Healthcare isn’t worth knowing… They provide pragmatic, proportionate, responsive reassuring support. It’s crystal clear that they look after and really value their staff living their own values’.

‘Raj Chahal’s no nonsense, reassuring, razor sharp timely approach is impressive’.

‘A genuinely brilliant and likeable group of employment and healthcare sector specialists. They are charismatic, tactical and exceptionally knowledgeable. They work as a team effectively and efficiently to achieve outstanding results for clients nationally. They deal with the full range of employment litigation’.

Jonathan Lewis: An outstanding solicitor who is firmly on the partner track. He is a master tactician in complex litigation who carefully navigates difficult cases to achieve excellent results for his clients time after time. Jonathan regularly transforms a weak case into a strong one‘.

‘Jonathan Lewis is a standout associate in the team who will undoubtedly go far – he has a nose for strategy, is unafraid to think laterally about cases, and gets involved in the technical legal nuances engaged in any given matter which other associates might avoid’.

Key clients

Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust


Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust


Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation Trust


Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust


Solicitors Regulation Authority Limited


Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust


Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust


Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust


Social Work England


Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust


University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust


Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Hospital NHS Trust


Arden and GEM CSU


University Hospitals Leicester NHS Trust


North Bristol NHS Trust


Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust


Methodist Homes


Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust


Platform Housing


A2Dominion


East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust


Work highlights


  • Successfully defended a multi-day Tribunal claim of unfair dismissal and disability discrimination arising from a sickness absence dismissal against Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.
  • Supported an NHS Trust to manage internal investigations into concerns relating to a consultant surgeon’s clinical practice and relationship breakdown, and the handling of counter grievances.
  • Succeeded in obtaining costs awards in respect of two claims by the same Claimant against Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in a case of constructive dismissal and discrimination.

Heminsley Law

Heminsley Law is a ‘very sleek set-up’ that is led by Trevor Gibson. It advises companies on a wide range of people risks from employment law to bribery and corruption. The 'accessible' team frequently handles high-risk issues from whistleblowing and complex discrimination cases to IR35, bonus claims and the enforcement of restrictive covenants. Jemma O’Reilly has an excellent reputation too. Another highlight for the team was Simon Stephen joining the firm from Gowling WLG.

Practice head(s):

Trevor Gibson


Other key lawyers:

Jemma O’Reilly; Simon Stephen


Testimonials

‘Heminsley Law has long been my ‘go-to’ for advice as their team is readily available and provides advice that is clear and unambiguous‘.

‘Heminsley are a fabulous firm. They are small but punch well above their weight. In many ways their size is to their advantage – Trevor and Jemma are able to offer a fantastic, efficient and personal service to their clients in a way that larger firms just can’t‘.

‘Trevor Gibson is one of the finest employment lawyers I have ever worked with. Always accessible, Trevor makes complex issues seem simple, and exceeds expectations every time’.

Key clients

Sales Layer Ltd


MBNL


Slater & Gordon Group


Claims Consortium Group


The Automobile Association


SKG Capital Partners


Rowan International Ltd


ASHS t/a Anya Hindmarch Ltd


Gloucestershire Airport Ltd


Mastek (UK) Ltd


The Conran Shop


Williams Group UK Properties Ltd


Work highlights


  • Over the course of the year, it has provided strategic legal advice and employee relations support to the Chief Executive, the Chief Operating Officer and the Chief People Officer of Slater & Gordon in respect of a number of strategic people issues.
  • Advising the board of Claims Consortium Group Limited on strategic employment issues.
  • Advising the Global Head-Legal Affairs and the Global Chief Human Resources and Diversity Officer of Mastek (UK) Ltd on the management of a high-value multi-day Employment Tribunal claim.

MFG Solicitors LLP

Sally Morris  leads a strong team at MFG Solicitors LLP that excels in providing TUPE  advice. It is equally adept at advising on discrimination claims, dismissals and on a whole host of compliance issues. The team is lauded for the ‘consistent quality of its advice’ and Christopher Piggott is another significant member of the department. Clients include UK plcs and Colleges of Further Education. The group also has key sector expertise in diverse areas such as professional services, manufacturing and retail.

Practice head(s):

Sally Morris


Other key lawyers:

Christopher Piggott


Testimonials

‘I greatly appreciate Sally Morris for her pragmatic and practical advice. She speaks in a down to earth, friendly manner and makes sure you understand the main points. She has made herself available whenever we have needed her, even on Sundays and has been invaluable to us’.

‘Sally Morris on the HR team is a real dynamo and is always able to help. She has given me excellent advice and helped me through some really difficult times during covid’.

Sally Morris is a real asset to the MFG company. She is efficient, effective and her advice and support is always helpful. Her step by step plans are so helpful especially as we are currently without an HR Manager‘.

Key clients

MG Motor UK Limited


West Midlands Safari Park Limited


Severn Valley Railway (Holdings) Limited


The Best Connection Group Limited


Roxel (UK Rocket Motors) Limited


Hewett Recruitment Limited


Handling Concepts Limited


Rollinson Smith Limited


Andy Loos Limited


BRI Wealth Management Plc


Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce


Toyota Financial Services (UK) Plc


Toyota (GB) Plc


South and City College Birmingham


Solutions by Jigsaw Limited


Thermaco Limited


Bumble Hole Foods Limited


TCS Taurus Customer Services Limited


Group Gear Limited


Apperley Honing Limited


Pickerings Solicitors

Kate Johnson heads the practice at Pickerings Solicitors that  acts for organisations from a variety of sectors such as manufacturing, leisure, care, education and professional services. Johnson covers both contentious and non-contentious matters and has particular knowledge of claims of unfair dismissal, employment status and whistleblowing. Sue Hatton is another name to note for her work on all aspects of employment from recruitment and selection through to termination of employment.

Practice head(s):

Kate Johnson


Other key lawyers:

Sue Hatton; Peter Brady


Testimonials

‘The team have personalities which give confidence. Strong knowledge base and experts in their subjects‘.

‘They always go above and beyond to help with any guidance and advice on the matter on hand. Their experience and knowledge is exceptional‘.

‘Kate Johnson and Sue Hatton. Are both very professional and helpful’.

Sydney Mitchell LLP

Headed by Emma-Louise Hewitt , the team at Sydney Mitchell LLP has 'excellent legal expertise  and a common-sense approach’. The group provides ‘pragmatic advice’ to both employers and employees on a range of contentious issues. It also advises on other issues such as TUPE and is skilled at drafting handbooks. Dean Parnell  is another key figure who primarily advises companies and very senior employees.


Practice head(s):

Emma-Louise Hewitt


Other key lawyers:

Dean Parnell


Testimonials

‘Emma-Louise Hewitt is easily one of the finest legal partners in-house at Sydney Mitchells LLP, specialising in Employment Law. Her humility and honesty symbolises her work, resulting in successful outcomes in all kinds of cases. She is approachable and delivers to the highest scale’.

‘Emma-Louise Hewitt was excellent. She explained things to me in simple terms that I could understand (not all legal speak). She went above and beyond to help me at every turn with my case and I was lucky to have her fighting my corner’.

‘Emma Louise Hewitt always provides clear and concise advice taking circumstances into account and taking a balanced view. Emma always does what she promises she will do, and comes back to you in a timely manner’.

‘During the cases Emma was supportive, extremely knowledgable,straight talking, engaged and passionate. I knew exactly what to expect and how realistic my expectations were. I would recommend her to anyone. She is a credit to her profession’.

‘Emma has enormous expertise and experience, which enables her to provide a brilliant service for her clients. She is technically excellent, incredibly supportive and always looks to achieve the very best outcome. Emma gets to grips with complex detail in a case from the outset‘.

‘Sydney Mitchell’s team is consistent in its ‘no stone unturned’ approach to getting the best outcome for clients. Friendly and approachable, they instil confidence with their practical advice‘.

‘Emma-Louise Hewitt is knowledgeable and always on top of a client’s case. Dean Parnell infuses the team with his ‘extra mile’ attitude to client’s cases, coupled with a good dose of commercial realism‘.

‘Quick response, understanding the client’s expectations and providing the service at reasonable cost’.

Work highlights


  • Advised a global automotive on a complex TUPE transfer.
  • Advised and assisted a client in obtaining a substantial settlement following the employers attempt to exit them from the business owing to spurious allegations of poor performance.
  • Assisted and negotiated a sizeable exit package for a client who had a potential claim for disability discrimination against their employer.

Trowers & Hamlins LLP

Rebecca McGuirk is at the helm at Trowers & Hamlins LLP. McGuirk has a vast array of experience in advising major private sector clients as well as registered providers and care providers. Other key clients include charities and local authorities. She covers both contentious and non-contentious matters and has particular strength in advising on diverse matters such as trade union issues and strikes; restructures/ reorganisations as well as the ‘exiting’ of senior/ difficult employees.

Practice head(s):

Rebecca McGuirk


Testimonials

‘The team are very responsive to the needs of clients. They are forward thinking, and quick to offer effective solutions. Having used their services for many years there is trust and confidence in their ability to both represent and advise’.

‘Rebecca McQuirk is exceptional. Knows the sector, employment law and offers sound advice’.

‘A very extensive and detailed knowledge of the social housing sector, an open approach to work with organisations of charitable status to ensure the commercial arrangements are fair’.

‘Really take time to understand the issue – will ensure they provide opportunity for us to do some of the prep work to help with costs and have a good grasp of risk for the sector and when to push and when not’.

‘The team have been excellent and this has been particularly with the partner Rebecca McGuirk’.

‘Rebecca McGuirk has been outstanding. She always goes that extra mile and is always accessible at short notice; whether it is a simple email or phone call it is reassuring that a knowledgeable and pragmatic employment practitioner is on hand to give you the best possible advice’.

Key clients

CORE Education Trust


Wolverhampton Homes Limited


Mosscare St Vincent’s Housing Group Limited


SCC UK Holdings Limited


Rugby Borough Council


First Choice Homes Oldham Limited


Walsall Housing Group Limited


Longhurst Group Limited


Risedale Estates Limited


Midland Heart Limited


Work highlights


  • Supports CORE Education Trust on all its HR/ employment issues.
  • Supports Wolverhampton Homes on all of its HR/ employment issues.
  • Provides strategic employment advice to Walsall Housing Group, as well as litigation support.

Wright Hassall LLP

Wright Hassall LLP continues to be busy advising various employers and employees on tribunal proceedings  as well as dealing with a number of large scale and complex redundancies. Another key focus is advising on settlement agreements for employees. Practice head, Tina Chander,  covers both contentious and non-contentious matters. Chander frequently advises on diverse issues such as TUPE transfers, collective redundancies and complicated high-level terminations.

Practice head(s):

Tina Chandler


Testimonials

‘Friendly team who take time to understand us and how we work’.

‘Personable, friendly and provide practical advice. We have a laugh too!’.

Key clients

Keller Group Plc


British Dressage Ltd


Places for Leisure Limited (“Places Leisure”)


The Coventry City of Culture Trust


Princethorpe Foundation


EOS Electro Optical Systems


Guthrie Douglas Limited


Autosport Engineering Limited


Kite Packaging Group Limited


Amy Walsh (Individual)


Freightline Carriers Limited


Cogent Elliot Limited


Reverend David Butterworth


Nadem Sadek


Hawksyard Priory Nursing Home Limited


RG Wilbrey (Consultants) Limited


J and G Environmental Limited


Global University Systems


Aaron & Partners LLP

The employment team at Aaron & Partners LLP, has through Ben Mason , a strong reputation for its specialism in sports-related matters, large-scale restructures, TUPE and corporate support work.  Mason also has a specific focus on financial, IT, manufacturing and the care sector. Chester-based Helen Watson , co-heads the department, and advises clients in the public and private sectors on contentious and non-contentious employment matters.



Practice head(s):

Helen Watson; Ben Mason


Other key lawyers:

Jennifer Gibson


Testimonials

‘Ben’s advice was first class, he was almost able to 2nd guess what the next phase of the processes would be and thus give sage advice on what we should be doing as an Employer’.

‘Ben was very attentive throughout the process, advised with confidence & clarity. His advice was priceless and allowed me to sleep at night’.

‘I always find Ben to be personable and grounded and very easy to talk to. Ben is very pragmatic. Ben will always seek to find a commercially viable realistic solution and is very supportive. Ben is very approachable’.

‘I have mainly worked with Ben Mason who was able to give me the advice required in a quick and professional manner. Always follows up a short time after to make sure all ok‘.

‘Aaron & Partners are extremely professional but also very approachable, they communicate with our team in a straight forward manner which is never clouded in `legal speak’, this allows any member of our team to pick up the phone and ask for guidance. They are also always available’.

‘Jenny Gibson – her knowledge and experience are exemplary, her ability to think outside of the box and provide solutions have prevented any possibility of a crisis turning into a drama. Jenny’s thorough approach is invaluable’.

‘We find the firm to be extremely responsive and personable with a great understanding of our business’.

Key clients

Field Studies Council


West Bromwich Building Society


Invertek Drives Limited


Hoshizaki Europe Limited


Peter Posh Limited


Carey Glass Chester Limited


AXYZ Automation (UK) Limited


Tudor Griffiths Limited


AP Wireless (UK) Limited


Leapwork UK Limited


Work highlights


  • The employment department advised on the strategy of a hive up in relation to a TUPE and about when such transfer would take place.
  • A senior level employee was being ostracised immediately following a TUPE transfer and had been offered a settlement agreement. The firm successfully advised him on strategy including pursuing a grievance and lodging a DSAR request.
  • A Non-profit membership organisation instructed the department to advise and represent the client in the Employment Tribunal.  A claim had been made against the client for direct and indirect age discrimination.

Ansons

Jason Alcock and Martin De Ridder co-lead the department at Ansons which continues to be busy advising its commercial clients on a broad range of contentious and non-contentious matters. It frequently advises on disciplinary and grievance issues as well as cases where there are allegations of discrimination. The group is also skilled at advising on TUPE matters and redundancies.

Practice head(s):

Jason Alcock; Martin de Ridder


Other key lawyers:

Louise Palmer


Testimonials

‘The team is comprised of a body of highly dedicated and extremely experienced legal professionals who combine their vast knowledge of employment law with a holistic approach to client care’.

‘Jason Alcock is extremely helpful and knows his stuff, offers very professional advice with an uncanny ability to sense what might be around the corner. A Great Litigator’.

Jason Alcock is truly straight forward and extremely knowledgeable in all HR and employment law matters. He is a strong people person. Jason is also very easy to get hold of with a phone call returned within an hour and emails answered within a day, which is incredible considering his workload’.

‘Jason Alcock’s knowledge of employment law is amazing. From flexible working matters, to maternity and discrimination, to grievances, to severance pay and the rest he knows his market area more than anyone and you truly feel listened to and you know you’re in good hands’.

‘Jason Alcock is very reliable and attentive, answering queries swiftly and professionally’.

‘Jason is always very helpful in whatever capacity he is needed. Whether it is a question to help us how to deal with a certain situation, employment, policies and procedures. Louise Palmer has also been excellent in dealing with a personal issue for our director’.

‘We always get a timely response to our queries, professional and helpful advice for our employment questions’.

‘Personal approach. Allocation of files is done by senior staff who understand their team’s capabilities’.

Key clients

Seconique Limited


Walton Homes Limited


George Green LLP

Tim Lang , (who is also a fee paid Employment Judge who sits in the South-East), leads the employment practice at George Green LLP. It is known for its work with owner managed businesses and for providing support to the firm’s corporate department. The practice has solid experience in TUPE matters and in restrictive covenants/confidentiality litigation. Amy Brokenshire is another primary contact.

Practice head(s):

Tim Lang


Other key lawyers:

Amy Brokenshire


Key clients

Sims Group UK Limited


AGCO Limited


Hadley Industries Plc


Argus Fire Protection Company Limited


Inenco Group Limited


Hayfield Homes Limited


Namesco Limited


Saltus Partners LLP


Dudley Council


Hatchers Solicitors LLP

Practice head at Hatchers Solicitors LLP is Nigel Harrison, who advises various employers ranging from private limited companies to partnerships. Harrision is skilled at handling all aspects of employment law relating to the modern workplace. He is adept at advising on diverse matters such as  staff retention, redundancies and tribunal proceedings. The group has a particular focus on advising charities, the not-for-profit sector as well as schools.


Practice head(s):

Nigel Harrison


Testimonials

The depth of knowledge is outstanding. Particular thanks to Nigel Harrison whose depth of knowledge and support in relation to data protection and related matters is phenomenal’.

‘The team is so approachable, knowledgeable and professional ‘.

‘Nigel Harrison is exceptional , he talks you through the issues, provides advice and supports you through to the end. His knowledge is huge and is able to give advice immediately’.

Work highlights


  • It continues its long-standing relationship with its client – which is a not-for-profit organisation that provides education, care, and day services for learners with severe, profound and multiple learning difficulties and autism.
  • The Team continues to advise a leading co-educational independent school, on senior level employment and GDPR issues.
  • The Team continues to advise  a significant producer of Artisan desserts for the food service industry in the UK, Europe and the Middle East.

The Wilkes Partnership

James Leo spearheads a ‘very helpful’ team at The Wilkes Partnership, which primarily acts for employers as well as senior executives. It covers the full range of contentious and non-contentious employment services. The group covers a broad range of issues from TUPE and discrimination claims to also advising on restrictive covenants. Pam Sidhu has a particular focus on issues surrounding the management of international workforces.

 

Practice head(s):

James Leo


Other key lawyers:

Pam Sidhu


Testimonials

‘Strong people, excellent coordination and cooperation, quick reactions and excellent availability; clear legal communication’.

‘Take time to listen before offering commercial and pragmatic advice which is easy to implement’.

‘James Leo is a highly professional lawyer. His advices are business oriented and practical’.

‘Excellent legal knowledge, excellent communication, understandable for non legal people. Outstanding: Pam Sidhu’.

‘James Leo could very quickly reduce legal complexities to a few relevant bullet points I could understand. He improved the size of a settlement agreement and reduced some of the risks. I felt like I had his whole attention’.

‘Team is very skilled in international cross-border issues. Hands on, fast communication, detailed practical knowledge’.

‘A personal and fast response to questions dealt with in a professional manner. Very knowledgeable and honest approach to cases’.

‘I never felt like I needed a calendar appointment for another billable hour, I was able to send an email and get a quick useful reply or have a quick ‘phone call. This was really important as the situation was changing frequently at my end’.

Key clients

Greenfield Recovery Limited


Arcadian Products Limited


Emslie Bird


Transoft Solutions (UK) Limited


Comic Enterprises Limited


Doorfit Limited


Nova Express Limited


Architectural Building Fabrications Limited


QTM Global Services Limited


Daybreaks Trust


Premier Care (Midlands)


RNA Automation Limited


Complete Building Control Limited


Radiant Financial Group UK Holdings Limited


Hills Numberplates Ltd


German Christmas Company Limited


Star Group Live Limited


Sit SteuerungsTechnik  GmbH


Margetts Limited


Ramfoam Limited


THK GmbH


Eneco UK Limited


Simportal Limited


CEC Solar GmbH


Hofats GmbH


Advena Medical Limited


Caeser LLC


Lunar HR


Hanson Lawrie


HUF Haus GmbH & Co KG


Manke Markets UK Limited


Kestrel Aluminium Systems Limited


Work highlights


  • Advice on all UK immigration and employment law issues for an international company.
  • Adviser to a fast growing global events company on international employment and immigration issues arising from the deployment of staff across the globe in order to design, build and de-rig stage infrastructure for major world events.
  • Advised the client on various issues including the grievance hearing.

Thursfields Solicitors

Jonathon Forrester heads the department at Thursfields Solicitors, which receives a steady flow of instructions from its corporate client base as well as representing individuals on all aspects of employment law from disciplinary issues to managing senior exits. The ‘pragmaticLisa Kemp frequently handles a range of contentious issues in addition to advising on the employment aspects of corporate transactions.

.

Practice head(s):

Jonathon Forrester


Other key lawyers:

Lisa Kemp


Testimonials

‘Very responsive and excellent legal and practical advice. Deliver what they say they will do. Good interpersonal skills and well written documents prepared quickly and to timescales’.

‘Lisa Kemp provides us with an excellent service. Lisa always responds quickly giving options of further calls, either on the telephone or on teams’.

‘Lisa Kemp – Extremely knowledgeable in Employment Law – and good at assessing a situation and coming up with options for clients to choose from’.

Work highlights


  • Advising the Sellers of Demma Group Limited in respect of the employment matters (including settlement agreements, consultancy agreements and considering employment provisions within the sale agreement) .

Band Hatton Button LLP

Band Hatton Button LLP is recognised locally as having a strong employment department which continues to grow its commercial client base. Under the leadership of Mark Ridley, it has a varied case load of contentious and non-contentious employment matters. Ridley is also skilled at conducting Employment Tribunal litigation.

Practice head(s):

Mark Ridley


Testimonials

‘Mark Ridley was very communicative and issued regular updates’.

My experience with Band Hatton Button was excellent. There was a friendly and personal service which was delivered by one senior member of the team. Consistent, direct and logical advice allowed me to understand clearly how to best deal with my specific position’.

Mark Ridley’s experience and professionalism helped me to quickly come to an agreement in a friendly yet objective manner. Through his open and sometimes humorous personality, he was able to balance the serious side of the work with a friendly and more human touch’.

Clarke Willmott LLP

At the Birmingham office of Clarke Willmott LLP , Anna Youngs is a key contact. Youngs mainly acts for employers from both the public and private sectors, on a range of contentious and non-contentious matters. In addition, she sits as an employment judge in the South West region.


Practice head(s):

Anna Youngs; Marc Long


Testimonials

‘Brilliant team. I am most grateful for Anna’s understanding of my case. Anna was methodical and extremely strategic in her approach to my case. Additionally, Anna ensured at every level my expectation was managed. I found Anna highly experienced and competent’.

‘Anna was extremely strategic and very professional. I found Anna very understanding and extremely compassionate’.

Key clients

Marina Developments Limited


Xpediator Plc


Chichester City Club


The Chartered Institute of Public Finance & Accountancy


The Rugby Players Association


Work highlights


  • Acting for a College in relation to complex TUPE litigation, which arises out of a point of law that has not previously been litigated.
  • Advising on the employment aspects of the purchase of numerous shopping centres, including complex TUPE advice relating to employees of sub-contractors.
  • Advising the Rugby Players Association and the Wasps and Worcester Premiership rugby playing squads, following the insolvency of their respective employer clubs.

DWF

Head of department at DWF is Kate Meadowcroft, who advises employers on a whole host of employment issues with significant experience in advising on large scale change management projects as well as collective consultation programmes. The team has particular strength in the healthcare, social care and financial sectors.


Practice head(s):

Kate Meadowcroft


Pillinger & Associates

Pillinger & Associates has a proven track record in the region for advising employers and employees on various employment and HR issues. Amanda Pillinger advises on cases such as unfair dismissal, whistleblowing and breaches of contract.

Practice head(s):

Amanda Pillinger


Testimonials

‘Advice and support is always supplied promptly and is consistently relevant to the situation. Billing is transparent‘.

Amanda provides an excellent service by discussing and exploring various options always resulting with clear advice regarding a way forward which is consistently relevant to the respective situation‘.

‘Amanda is an excellent employment lawyer and will represent her clients with tenacity. Amanda is always fair in her approach and unlike many lawyers, she is not interested in one-upmanship or scoring points‘.

Key clients

Worcester Carsales Limited


Stanfield Nursing Home


Haines Watts Birmingham LLP


Recruit 12 Limited


London Dance Academy


Cognition Agency Limited


Headway Traffic Management


Wendyhouse Day Nursery


Quanta Dialysis Technologies Limited


Work highlights


  • Supported a client in negotiating an exit package with a senior employee that included  shareholdings and accommodation along with a financial package.
  • Achieved a settlement equivalent to 1 year’s salary for an employee who had been unfairly dismissed and discriminated against.
  • Provided advice and support to a client in relation to a large scale restructure and office move