Bates Wells

Charity & Social Enterprise

David is a Senior Counsel in the Charity and Social Enterprise team at Bates Wells, bringing over 25 years of legal experience to his work with purpose-led organisations. He supports charities, social enterprises, impact investors and mission-driven businesses committed to social and environmental change.

David advises commercial organisations on embedding purpose into their governance and stakeholder relationships, often in the context of climate and biodiversity goals. He also works with grant-making foundations and investors to develop fairer, more balanced funding and investment terms.

His practice includes advising community-focused organisations delivering renewable energy, affordable housing and community finance, as well as providing guidance on procurement, subsidy control and contracting with an emphasis on achieving social and environmental outcomes.

Senior Counsel, Bates Wells, 2011-present

Director, Net Zero Lawyers Alliance, 2022-2023

Director, Bristol Pound CIC, 2011-2021

Co-optee, Sustainable Future Programme, Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust, 2014-2020

Director, Bristol Green Capital Partnership CIC, 2014-2015

Chair and Secretary, The Community Farm, 2010-2019

Partner, Bevan Brittan LLP, 2001-2011

Head of Corporate and Social Responsibility, Bevan Brittan, 2008-2010

Solicitor and Associate, Bevan Ashford, 1995-2001

Articled Clerk and Solicitor, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, 1992-1994

UK Regional Board Member, Global Alliance of Impact Lawyers (GAIL)

Climate Change Working Party, The Law Society

Member, Diversity Committee, Bevan Brittan

Recent Pro bono advice to NEF, Action for Happiness, Foundation for Compassion and Wisdom, Real Farming Trust

Former Trustee, Ethical Property Foundation

Former Director, Self Help Community Housing Association

University of Bristol, Research Fellow, 2017

Hult Ashridge Executive Education, Msc Sustainability and Responsibility, 2010-2012

College of Law, CPE and Law Society Finals, 1989-1991

Oxford Oriel College, English, 1984-1987