Mills & Reeve LLP is engaged by the NHS, national bodies, ICBs, and primary care providers in complex disputes, contractual and regulatory matters, as well as supporting public inquiries and investigations. The firm is also noted for its ability to provide ‘pragmatic solutions’ across related public procurement, supply chain, and infrastructure projects. The team is led by Birmingham-based Jill Mason, who has considerable experience advising public and independent sector providers and NHS commissioners on all aspects of healthcare and mental health law. Key contacts include Rob Day, who specialises in complex primary care and NHS governance work, and Shailee Howard, experienced in non-contentious public procurement.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Good knowledge of GP practices.’
‘Mills and Reeve has extensive knowledge of the NHS and the complexities of the issues and situations which present themselves. Mills and Reeves provide a personalised service, taking time to get to know their clients and their business to understand pressures and challenges. ’
‘Rebecca Harker-Smith is personable, pragmatic, and solution-focused. She always provides sound advice, explaining options, risks, and opportunities. Flexible and available at short notice and out of hours. Jog Hundle is personable, pragmatic, and solution-focused. Her knowledge of the NHS and medical issues is outstanding. She is calm and never gets flustered and is always able to find a solution, providing reassuring words.’
‘Working with the team at Mills & Reeve has been nothing short of exceptional. What sets this practice apart is the rare combination of deep technical expertise, genuine commercial awareness, and a truly human approach to legal partnership. In a fast-paced and often high-pressure environment, they bring clarity, precision, and a calm, confident presence that immediately inspires trust. The team is not only professional and articulate, but also impressively responsive - consistently delivering high-quality advice at pace without ever compromising on detail or rigour. Their technical ability is second to none; they don’t just apply the law, they understand its nuances and how it intersects with real-world business challenges. Importantly, they’re not afraid to challenge and be challenged, fostering a collaborative relationship built on integrity and mutual respect. What truly distinguishes Mills & Reeve, however, is the people. They are down-to-earth, personable, and a genuine pleasure to work with. Legal excellence is expected from any top-tier firm—but the experience of working with a team that combines such high standards with approachability and empathy is something special. For anyone seeking a legal partner who is as skilled as they are easy to engage with, I can wholeheartedly recommend Mills & Reeve.’
‘What truly makes the individuals at Mills & Reeve stand out is not just their legal expertise—which is unquestionable—but their ability to bring a sense of calm assurance and genuine connection into every interaction. They have that rare quality of making you feel both completely at ease and completely confident in their advice. It’s a combination that’s hard to find in the legal world, and it sets them apart from other firms in a very real and meaningful way. Across both partners and associates, the team are consistently personable, approachable, and grounded. They’re not afraid to challenge ideas, but they do so constructively, with respect and open-mindedness. They’re collaborative, responsive, and articulate, but never at the expense of being warm and relatable. That human side makes a huge difference, especially when dealing with time-sensitive or high-pressure issues. Natalie Wade, Paul Krivosic, and Kim Lindsay-Smith, in particular, have delivered standout service on projects we have worked closely on. Each of them brings a unique blend of technical excellence and genuine client care. Their ability to engage in a personable, human way has made a real difference. You never feel like just another client; you feel like you’re working with people who genuinely care about getting the best outcome for your organisation.’
'My dealings with Mills & Reeve have always been positive, from the initial meet and greet with the Partner to working closely with one of their Principal Associates on a range of complex ER organisational change, TUPE, and M&A. I have found their ability to help us translate complex legal advice into pragmatic solutions second to none. Always accessible, professional and responsive, yet down to earth and personable, I have developed a good working relationship with the firm.'
Work highlights
Advising Supply Chain Coordination in connection with Module 5 of the UK Covid-19 Inquiry in relation to the procurement of Personal Protective Equipment during the pandemic.
Acting for Supply Chain Coordination Limited in the defence of procurement claims valued at £4.4bn.
Supporting NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board on a contract management dispute of a poor-performing primary care provider.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Rob Day
Practice head
Jill Mason
Other key lawyers
Rob Day; Shailee Howard; Natalie Wade; Paul Krivosic; Kim Lindsay-Smith; Rebecca Harker-Smith