Joined
June 2009

Background
I’ve spent over twenty years working mainly in IT, including a stint working for a software firm that developed know-how systems for the legal market, so I was already familiar with many aspects of the profession before I joined Slater Heelis. I relocated to the Northwest in 2002 and at the same time, I moved out of IT into professional services marketing, working initially for an accountancy practice.

Career at Slater Heelis
As a brand marketing specialist, my first project has been developing and implementing the firm’s new brand. It’s been an extremely demanding responsibility, which suits me well as I enjoy working with tough deadlines and under pressure. In my first six months I’ve worked with lots of people in the firm, so it has helped me to get to know my colleagues quickly and understand their perspective on how the firm needs to develop to continue to be successful.

What is life like at Slater Heelis?
It’s a very friendly, hard-working and fun place to work. There is no doubt in my mind that everyone is very committed to getting “the job done”; irrespective of their own tasks, everyone pulls together when it’s needed.

I’ve got a lot of support for my work and there is a genuine sense of enthusiasm for where the firm is heading. It’s very obvious that the senior management team is very committed to the firm’s success, so it’s a positive environment for anyone who is keen to make their mark and develop their skills. I am really excited about the possibilities for Slater Heelis – the competition really does have something to worry about!

What are your future plans?
Launching a new brand is just the beginning, so I have lots more work to do with our brand. We need to continue developing our internal communications tools and processes, so that all of our staff are fully engaged with our brand. Plus, I have big plans for marketing and business development activities, particularly for specialist fields such as IP, sports, media and immigration amongst others.

Joined
March 2008

Background
After twenty-seven years with my last firm, where I had progressed from secretary to partner, found myself spending more time managing the office than actually doing what I qualified to do - practicing law. Having also been appointed as a Deputy District Judge in 2005, I wanted to free up some of my time to sit more frequently. I was attracted to Slater Heelis because of the firm’s excellent reputation, not just with their clients but with fellow practitioners and the judiciary. I also knew that they were a well-run and managed practice, so I knew that I would be able to rely on the management and support teams to get on with running the business, leaving me to concentrate entirely on practicing law.

Career at Slater Heelis
I joined Slater Heelis in March 2008, based primarily at the Heaton Moor office. As one of our smaller offices, I’ve really enjoyed the combination of working in a small, “family-like” team while still having the benefit of being part of a larger commercial firm. Since joining, I’ve built a successful family practice at Heaton Moor, so I’m now spending some of my time at our Urmston office to help build up their family practice too. As I have the flexibility to move from office to office without any disruption to the way I work with clients, it’s extremely beneficial for my clients. In fact, I now meet with clients at our Sale and commercial offices – it’s really down to whatever suits the client best.

What is life like at Slater Heelis?
My move to Slater Heelis was probably the second best career move I have ever made, the first being applying to be a part-time Judge. It’s a pleasure working here because I’ve got all the support I need, while having the freedom to develop my part of the practice as I feel best. The entire family team consists of extremely experienced, competent lawyers and although we all have our own clients, we work together as a team for the benefit of all clients. I’m very proud to be part of what I consider to be an excellent firm offering an excellent service throughout.

What are your future plans?
I’m aiming to continue developing the family practice at our Heaton Moor and Urmston offices. From a personal perspective, I want to enjoy being a lawyer as part of an excellent firm and continue to resolve problems for my clients – which is what I do best!