The North West region has recently witnessed a series of strategic appointments across various sectors. From legal experts to housing executives, the new recruits bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their respective fields.
These appointments highlight a forward-thinking approach, focusing on strengthening teams to address both current challenges and future opportunities. Let’s delve into the recent significant appointments and their potential impact on the organisations involved.
Knights Welcomes Children’s Law Specialist
Children’s law specialist Katie Welton-Dillon has joined as a partner, enhancing the regional legal services business. Katie is one of the few family lawyers in the UK dedicated solely to children’s law and domestic abuse cases.
Welton-Dillon is recognised as one of the North West’s top family lawyers, advising on complex cases involving parental alienation, child abuse, and mental health issues. She brings over 15 years of experience, both domestically and internationally, in safeguarding children’s best interests.
Katie expressed her excitement, stating, “I am thrilled to join Knights and their exceptional family law team. Excellent client service is at the heart of everything at Knights, which aligns perfectly with my approach in this sensitive area of law.”
Hugh Jones Solicitors’ New Director
The Manchester-based Hugh Jones Solicitors has appointed Dale Shimwell as the new director of its private client team. This move is part of the firm’s latest recruitment drive to strengthen its expertise in the Court of Protection domain.
Dale Shimwell, who qualified in 2012, previously oversaw the private client and property teams at a Lancashire firm. He is joined by Holly Simpson, who brings 12 years of specialised experience in drafting wills and handling Lasting Powers of Attorney.
Managing Director Liz Hughes emphasised the importance of these appointments, noting, “As our firm evolves, the strength of our team remains central to our success. Recruiting and developing the best possible team ensures we meet and exceed client expectations.”
Strengthening Business Support with The Director’s Choice
Corporate finance expert Simon Dempsey has joined The Director’s Choice as Associate Director. By empowering directors to make informed choices, the organisation aims to build stronger, more resilient companies.
Simon highlighted the unique value of The Director’s Choice, stating, “There’s nothing like this available to directors nationally. By building on the trusted reputation of The Director’s Helpline, we aim to support and empower business owners across the UK.”
Jonathan Cooper, Director and Founder, commented on the increasing demand, noting that their helpline receives upwards of 600 calls a month from directors seeking advice. Simon’s extensive experience in finance and business operations is seen as a valuable asset to the team.
Livv Housing’s Commitment to Financial Strategy
Livv Housing Group has appointed Chris Holden as the new Director of Finance and Investment. Chris joins from the Money and Pensions Service, where he was instrumental in modernising the finance function.
Holden expressed his dedication to Livv’s mission, “Livv’s strong sense of purpose and commitment to the community was a compelling proposition. I am grateful for the warm welcome and look forward to contributing to the organisation’s financial strategy.”
Howard Roberts, Executive Director of Finance, Risk & Performance, welcomed Chris, acknowledging his extensive experience and strategic insight as critical to driving sustainability and impact through sound financial management.
Salford City Council’s Housing Transformation
Alan Caddick has been appointed as the Interim Director of Housing Transformation at Salford City Council. Alan previously held similar roles at local authorities in the North East and London.
Caddick brings a wealth of experience, having served as Director of Housing and Residential Growth at Manchester City Council. He returns to Salford, where he previously worked as Lead Officer for the New Deal for Communities program.
Cllr Tracy Kelly, Deputy City Mayor and Lead Member for Housing and Anti-Poverty, praised the appointment, stating, “Alan brings incredible knowledge and experience of the housing sector. His leadership will be instrumental in delivering quality affordable housing for our residents.”
FFT’s Investment in New Talent
Manchester-based accountancy firm FFT has welcomed two new Audit and Accounts Trainees, Max Roscoe and Almis Essa. Max, a University of Nottingham graduate, is eager to start his accountancy career, while Almis joins from another audit-focused role.
Both trainees are undertaking their ACA qualification at the firm. Partner Adam Caplan emphasised the importance of nurturing new talent, stating, “We’re proud to provide this opportunity and look forward to helping them develop their careers and skills.”
The addition of new trainees signifies FFT’s commitment to growth and investment in future professionals. The firm aims to build a robust team capable of delivering high-quality services to clients.
Brabners’ Real Estate Team Expansion
Independent law firm Brabners has appointed Robert Arnison as a new partner to its real estate team. Robert brings over 20 years of experience from global firm DLA Piper, where he was a senior figure in the Manchester-based development team.
Arnison’s expertise will further enhance Brabners’ capacity to support major national regeneration projects. He will collaborate with colleagues across the firm’s offices in Manchester, Liverpool, Preston, and Leeds.
Managing Partner Nik White highlighted Robert’s talent and experience, stating, “Robert will be a valuable addition to our real estate practice, helping us influence ambitious infrastructure schemes that drive regeneration across the North.”
MHA’s Record Trainee Intake
National accountancy firm MHA has recruited 50 new trainees and apprentices across its five North West offices— a record number for the organisation. This intake follows the firm’s recent merger with MHA Moore and Smalley.
The new recruits, including university, college, and sixth form graduates, will be mentored by senior colleagues and receive bespoke development plans. This approach is designed to support their progression within the firm.
Graham Gordon, regional chair, commented on the merger’s success, noting that it was driven by cultural alignment and a commitment to talent development. He expressed optimism about the new cohort’s potential to thrive within MHA.
These strategic appointments across various sectors emphasize the importance of strengthening teams with experienced professionals.
From legal expertise to financial strategy, each appointment brings unique skills and insights, poised to drive growth and innovation within their organisations.