Leading law firm Ward Hadaway has announced 13 new appointments across its offices, including four in Manchester, reinforcing its commitment to growth under managing partner Steven Petrie. The appointments add to the nearly 500-strong team at the full-service firm, one of the leading independent practices in the UK.
The Manchester appointments include two new partners in the North West. Carlyn Weale joins as co-lead of the commercial litigation team in Manchester, alongside Nick Wells. Carlyn advises businesses and company directors on a range of commercial disputes including corporate claims, complex breaches of contracts and confidentiality, and cyber litigation. She also regularly represents clients as an advocate in the High Court.
Stuart Whitehead joins the housing management team, which now includes 17 sector specialists. The department has grown by over 65% in the past two years, doubling its client base since 2021. Stuart brings with him extensive experience in representing housing associations and local authorities in housing possession and disrepair claims, anti-social behaviour injunctions, and tenancy breaches.
The multi-disciplinary team of legal experts work in partnership with a range of social housing providers including Together, Yorkshire Housing, Gentoo and Places for People, as well as local councils and combined authorities across the North.
Additionally, new recruits have joined the corporate finance, debt, employment, housing, real estate, and family teams.
Manchester executive partner, Liz Bottrill, commented; “I’d like to extend a warm welcome to all our new people who have joined us across our offices. Our ambitious growth plans are strengthened by these skilled legal professionals, enhancing our full-service offering.
“Attracting such talent reflects our reputation as an employer of choice and all our new team members are aligned around our values of being straightforward, respectful and ambitious. Each individual is a specialist in their field and supports our vision to deliver exceptional client experiences. It’s a pleasure to have them onboard.”
Steven Petrie, who became managing partner in April 2024, recently outlined the firm’s goal to double in size over the next decade, expanding its national footprint.
New partner Carlyn Weale said; “I’m delighted to join Ward Hadaway at this exciting time in the company’s journey. I was attracted by the firm's clear ambitions and its focus on developing its people and supporting them to be their very best; the culture here fits perfectly with my values. The commercial litigation team’s reputation is outstanding, and the opportunity to co-lead the Manchester team and drive its growth was compelling. It’s great to be here.”