A new leadership team has been unveiled at a Hull law firm, reflecting steady growth and a collective aspiration to build on success.
Two new senior figures have joined the board at Williamsons Solicitors, marking the start of a significant restructuring process. Further director-level appointments are anticipated this spring for the £6.9 million turnover firm, which saw a 24 per cent increase in fee-generation in 2021/22.
Operations director Neil Waterhouse and finance director John Auld will join experienced solicitors Sarah Clubley, an owner-director and partner since 2000, and Jane Cousins who has held her owner-director role since 2016. They lead a 130-strong team working from the head office in Lowgate and branches in Bridlington and Driffield.
Read next: Regional law firm chooses Hull for its latest expansion
Neil spent 30 years working in corporate banking, including at HSBC, RBS and Barclays. He was more recently vice principal of East Riding College. He said: “As a senior business manager with the banks, I looked after numerous law firms, and while in the education sector, I focused on operational management.
“This has given me the experience to help Williamsons achieve further growth and develop key service areas. It is fantastic to have a new challenge with this well thought of and successful business.”
John is a chartered accountant and chartered tax advisor. During his career, he has worked for RSM and Smailes Goldie, along with firms in the South East and Harrogate. He said: “Turnover has increased year on year and there is a great opportunity for Williamsons to build on its excellent reputation. I am very much looking forward to making a positive impact.”
Williamsons started in Hull 131 years ago, and has grown steadily through service development, expansion of its client base and acquisitions. It provides a range of essential services including crime, probate, conveyancing, family law, civil litigation, personal injury, clinical negligence and business property.
Sarah, who heads the family and childcare department, said: “We now have a core senior management team with a superb range of complementary skills. Both Neil and John bring niche experience to the firm which will help us move to the next level.”
Jane, head of residential conveyancing, wills and probate, added: “The addition of Neil and John allows for a clearer division of responsibilities, while bringing specific areas of expertise to help us achieve our ambitions.”
Read next:
New Hull chambers for city's barristers on court centre's doorstep
Hull tax professional joins HMRC anti-abuse advisory panel
Global footcare business Scholl commits to Hull with footprint switch following Reckitt sale
100 new jobs at BAE Systems as defence expert supports next generation tech
All your Humber business news in one place - bookmark it now
