York 
Tell us about the day-to-day life of your job?
My role is focused on the strategic leadership and overall direction of the firm. A significant part of my time is working with my fellow directors and senior leadership team to shape our strategy, drive sustainable growth and ensure we continue to evolve in an increasingly competitive legal market.
That includes business planning, financial and operational oversight, and making sure we are investing in the right areas – whether that is people, technology, client service, or expanding our presence across the region.
Alongside this, I remain closely involved in marketing and business development, building relationships with clients, professional contacts, and wider networks to support the firm’s long-term vision.
Ultimately, my day-to-day work is about ensuring we deliver for our clients and our staff today whilst continuing to develop and strengthen the firm for the future.
What excites you about your job?
I take real satisfaction from helping shape the strategic direction of the firm.
I enjoy the challenge of thinking ahead – considering how we grow, where we invest, and how we continue to evolve as a firm across Yorkshire and beyond.
A particular highlight is seeing the impact of good leadership in practice – watching teams develop, individuals take on greater responsibility, and everyone working together to deliver excellent results for our clients and the wider business.
What is the proudest moment of your career?
Playing my part, alongside my fellow directors and colleagues, in the growth of one of Yorkshire’s leading law firms. Seeing the firm develop into a business with approximately 100 members of staff and offices in York, Wetherby and Malton is something I am incredibly proud of.
If you knew someone was wanting to get into your industry, what advice would you give them?
Be thorough, learn to listen and remain curious. Technical ability is important, but the best solicitors understand people as much as they understand legal issues.
Attention to detail is essential, as is the ability to stay calm and think clearly and make sound decisions under pressure.
Above all, be someone people can trust. The legal profession is built on relationships, and the ability to understand and support people is what makes a great solicitor.
What makes a good boss?
A good boss sets a clear direction and then creates the environment for people to succeed within it.
For me, it’s about combining strategic clarity with trust – giving people the autonomy to do their jobs in a supportive environment, whilst maintaining high standards and accountability.
It is important to take the time to fully understand a situation before making decisions, whilst remaining open to different perspectives.
Ultimately, good leadership is about consistency and trust. Being approachable, communicating openly, and setting the right example through your own actions and behaviour. When you get that right, you build both confidence and a strong culture within the firm.
What is it you love about York?
York is a fantastic city to live and work in. It has a unique combination of history, character and ambition.
There is a strong sense of community, but also a real energy in terms of business growth and opportunity. It is a city that respects its heritage whilst continuing to look towards the future.
Who is your idol and why?
I don’t really have one idol as such, but I admire strong leaders who combine vision, resilience and the ability to inspire others. People like Steve Jobs, Nelson Mandela and Sir Alex Ferguson have all demonstrated different aspects of leadership – whether that is innovation, overcoming adversity or bringing people together
Name 4 people dead or alive you would like to go to dinner with.
I would choose Churchill, Roosevelt, Stalin and Mao Zedong because they were among the most influential figures of the 20th century playing a significant role in determining the course of history. I would be interested in understanding how they made decisions under immense pressure, how they justified their actions, and how they viewed the consequences of their decisions. A conversation with them would offer insight into leadership, power and the far-reaching consequences of leaders’ decisions, highlighting their potential to shape the world in both positive and negative ways.
What is your favourite book?
Animal Farm – George Orwell
It is a short but powerful book that reads on various levels. On one level it is a simple story, and on another it is a compelling political allegory that explores themes of ambition, power and leadership. It remains remarkably relevant today.
What do you do to unwind after a long day in the office?
Sport is a big part of that. I enjoy playing football and squash.
Outside of sport, spending time with family and friends helps me relax.
What would your superpower be?
Having the ability to create more hours in the day – balancing work, family, friends and the things I enjoy is always a challenge, so a few extra hours would be very useful
What is your happy song?
Perfect Day’ by Lou Reed. It’s a reminder that happiness often comes from the small moments rather than the big occasions, whether that is spending time with family, friends or simply taking time to enjoy the moments away from the everyday demands of work.
If you could retire tomorrow what would be the first thing you’d do?
I would like to get involved in some community or charity project. Something where I could use my experience and time to make a positive difference.
Tell us a joke!
I told my team I wanted to improve communication…
Now I’m copied into everything.
York –