Attracting praise for its ‘exceptional helpfulness and approachability,’ Ward Hadaway LLP’s employment team multifaceted workload encompasses contentious and non-contentious matters, with notable sector expertise across the education, healthcare, and manufacturing segments. Practice head Jamie Gamble handles complex TUPE matters, senior executive dismissals and contracts, and minimum wage compliance mandates for clients in the manufacturing sector. Paul Scope is routinely instructed by clients in the third and public sectors and has a particular specialism in sports and recruitment issues, in addition to handling trade union matters and discrimination claims. Gillian Chinhengo is the key contact for complex collective consultation processes and senior executive exits, while the ’commercially astute and driven‘ Graham Vials frequently receives instructions from clients in the education sector. On the business immigration front, Roisin Patton is the name to note. Rounding out the core team are Mark McKeever, who acts for clients in the public sector, and the ’unfailingly excellent‘ Tom Shears , whose broad practice extends to advice on disciplinary processes and settlement negotiations.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Roisin Patton is personable and professional. She dedicates herself to assisting you with your inquiries, patiently discussing the issue and consistently offering valuable advice. Despite my years of experience in HR and exposure to various situations, Roisin continually imparts fresh insights and knowledge, keeping me engaged and informed. Her advice is always spot on.’
- ‘Paul Scope's approach to employment law is ethical, progressive, and commercial in equal measure. In my experience, he is unique in the balance that he strikes, when we engage with him he genuinely wants to find a good outcome for all and help solve problems not just advise us in a way that ensures we operate within the relevant laws. His ability to genuinely empathise whilst also providing an appropriate level of challenges is exceptional.’
- ‘Tom Shears, whilst a relatively junior member of the team as a whole, is a stand-out lawyer. His preparation, instructions and insight into cases is unfailingly excellent. Graham Vials is a commercially astute and driven lawyer, who works very hard to achieve great results for clients.’
- ‘We work predominantly with Paul Scope. Paul has a great understanding of our business and the ways in which we operate, which enables us to have more meaningful, practical conversations in relation to employment law issues. He is very approachable, responsive, and pragmatic, which works well for us.’
- ‘Hadaway’s exceptional qualities have set them apart from competitors in the legal field. Their in-depth knowledge of the law, coupled with a keen understanding of industry nuances, distinguishes them from competitors and positions them as a trusted authority in their field.’
- ‘Ward Hadaway's Employment practice stands out for its commitment to excellence, client-focused approach, and a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of employment law. The firm's unique blend of legal expertise and personalised service ensures that clients receive tailored solutions to meet their specific needs.’
- ‘The WH team consistently demonstrates exceptional helpfulness and approachability, always willing to go the extra mile to provide support. They prioritise safeguarding your business from an employment law standpoint while also recognizing the commercial considerations involved in decision-making. Their advice is tailored to ensure optimal support for your needs.’
- ‘The team members are personable and approachable, showing genuine interest in you and your business. They customise their work to align with your business's unique requirements, rather than offering generic advice.’
Key clients
- Nobia Holdings UK Limited (Magnet Kitchens)
- Inn Collection
- North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust
- Samuel Smith Old Brewery Tadcaster
- Port of Tyne
- Ashworth and Parker Limited
- Newcastle United Football Company Limited
- Story Homes Ltd
- Bannatyne Fitness Limited
- Komatsu UK Limited
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.
Gillian Chinhengo
Graham Vials
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Mark McKeever
Practice head
Jamie Gamble
Other key lawyers
Paul Scope; Gillian Chinhengo; Graham Vials; Roisin Patton; Mark McKeever; Tom Shears