Firms To Watch: Employment: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire

Lewis Silkin is continuing to build out its national platform, following up its Manchester launch with an office in Leeds led by former Knights plc partner James Keogh.

Employment: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire in Yorkshire And The Humber

Addleshaw Goddard

Addleshaw Goddard maintains an eminent market position through a combination of deep sector expertise, particularly in the consumer retail arena, and capabilities covering the full span of core employment work. The ‘exceptional’ Shakeel Dad, who counts high-profile players in the consumer and retail sectors among his key roster of clients, jointly leads the team alongside Rebecca Kitson, who has experience in the energy, financial services, and retail sectors, and is praised for her ‘customer-focused, practical and ‘real world’ advice’. Legal director Gerri Elliott is another key contact in the practice.

Responsables de la pratique:

Shakeel Dad; Rebecca Kitson


Autres avocats clés:

Gerri Elliott


Les références

The key strength of the team is the leadership: Shakeel Dad is an exceptional partner who I have worked with for many years. The strength and depth of the team in terms of expertise is also excellent. Over the last year we have needed support on a variety of matters from immigration through to TUPE and complex ER cases, and the standard of service is always second-to-none.’

Shakeel Dad is a pragmatic lawyer and he is able to distil down information very easily and in an understandable and logical way.’

The team at Addleshaw Goddard give us legal support that we are able to apply on a practical level. They are approachable and have been very quick to understand our business and culture. When required, we have been able to reach out to their colleagues on other matters such as tax, immigration, and investigations.’

Principaux clients

Kraft Heinz


Euro Garages


Asda


Boohoo


Arla


Network Rail


British Business Bank


Natwest


HSBC


British Airways


Government Legal Department


Haribo


Vision Express


Safestyle Plc


Symington’s


Mothercare


Miller Homes


Kcom


SSE


Octopus


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising ASDA and Boohoo, among others, on remote working issues and the legal and practical implications of international working arrangements.
  • Advising a financial institution on a highly confidential whistleblowing investigation.
  • Advising one of the country’s largest food and drinks retailers on injunction proceedings in the High Court.

DLA Piper

DLA Piper has broad capabilities across advisory, litigation, restructuring, and outsourcing work, with a strong offering in employment mandates involving a cross-border element and in issues surrounding the gig economy. Leveraging its international resources, the firm acts as a one-stop shop for clients with complex employment matters with a global dimension. Jane Hannon oversees the work of the Leeds team, in addition to acting as the firm’s national head of employment, advising on the full range of employment matters with particular experience working on complex international projects. Chris Baker is also noted for the global reach of his practice, with experience managing complex employment disputes and restructurings.

Responsables de la pratique:

Jane Hannon


Autres avocats clés:

Chris Baker


Les références

‘The team at DLA Piper are outstanding. They handle an enormous workload with ease and have extremely impressive attention to detail.’

‘Jane Hannon is calm, responsive and collaborative. Jane leads an extremely complex litigation and settlement work-stream of significant importance to UK businesses, whilst also connecting us with her team outside of the UK on related matters.’

Principaux clients

Uber


The Official Receiver


Morphe Cosmetics


Anglo American


Persimmon Homes PLC


OneTrust


Howden Joinery Group


Stanley Black & Decker


Dentsu Aegis


ITV


LSL Property Services PLC


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising Uber on all aspects of engaging drivers in its Rides business with worker status, including holiday pay, minimum wage, and pension rights.
  • Defending approximately 1,000 claims for a protective award arising from redundancies due to the collapse of Carillion in 2018.
  • Advising One Trust on a global workforce restructuring project.

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP attracts a range of high-profile clients through the combination of its ‘commercial and practical understanding’ of employment law matters and the firm's international footprint. Industrial relations, board-level exits, and tribunal work are particular strengths of the practice, as is the education sector, which is managed by its own separate team. Operating out of Leeds, practice head Paul Cotton specialises in the employment aspects of M&A transactions, particularly TUPE matters, reorganisations, and redundancies, while Chris Mordue remains eminent nationally in the higher education space, with recent activity in industrial action mandates. Other lawyers of note include Simon Rice-Birchall and his work around minimum wage compliance; Lousie Lightfoot, whose strengths are in immigration and multi-jurisdictional projects; and Ben Wood, who specialises in the education sector.

Responsables de la pratique:

Paul Cotton


Autres avocats clés:

Chris Mordue; Simon Rice-Birchall; Louise Lightfoot; Ben Wood


Les références

Paul Cotton is my go-to counsel when I need an attorney in the UK, EU, or Asia.’

The Eversheds Sutherland Employment team at Leeds standout as a practice which puts the client firmly at the heart of what they do. They have a really stable, experienced team who make it their business to get to know their client’s particular circumstances and needs so any advice is always given in context.’

The professionalism of the the entire Eversheds Sutherland employment team means that whoever my team engages with, they can be sure of excellent service and advice. Specifically, I have worked closely with Simon Rice-Birchall over many years and his knowledge, experience, and commerciality make him a stand-out performer.’

Principaux clients

Virgin Atlantic


Lloyds Bank


University of Leicester


Assura PLC


Hallmark Cards


University of Nottingham


Network Rail


University of Reading


DHL


Skipton Building Society


Squire Patton Boggs

Squire Patton Boggs acts on a number of novel mandates and is noted for its ‘pragmatic‘ and ‘commercial‘ advice by ‘personable' lawyers for clients across the technology, finance, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing industries. Industrial relations, pay-related issues, and executive-level departures are areas of particular activity for the team, though it possesses broader capabilities relating to Employment Tribunal disputes, restructurings, and redundancies. Matthew Lewis chairs the practice from Leeds, leading on the firm’s strong offering in industrial relations and business-critical corporate change projects. Andrew Stones works with a number of major FTSE clients in relation to their most sensitive projects.

Responsables de la pratique:

Matthew Lewis


Autres avocats clés:

Andrew Stones


Les références

Excellent and pragmatic employment advice. Personable lawyers who understand their clients businesses and those they interact with.

Matthew Lewis is an excellent employment lawyer. He is pragmatic, knowledgeable and prepared to give a commercial view. He understands the uniqueness of our business and the sector.

Always felt that they are an extension of our in-house legal and HR teams. Genuinely care about our business and able to deliver pragmatic but also technical advice on tap.’

Principaux clients

2Sisters


Brewdog


Burton’s Biscuits


Compass Group plc


Dominos


Gate Gourmet


Greggs plc


Morrisons


NewDay


Pets at Home plc


Pret a Manger


Radley


Tesco


Tusker


University of Law


Whittard of Chelsea


Zenith Vehicle Contracts


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising Tesco on the equal pay claims being brought by store colleagues claiming the right to equal pay with colleagues in Distribution Centres.
  • Acting for FMCG businesses in applications for union representation.
  • Acting for one of the world’s largest healthcare companies on an Employment Tribunal claim brought by a former employee alleging unfair dismissal and multiple counts of discrimination.

Walker Morris LLP

Walker Morris LLP is notable for both the range of sectors in which it advises clients and its comprehensive capabilities across those sectors. Andrew Rayment sits at the helm of the department and frequently advises on the employment elements of transactions, technology-related matters, and logistic mandates, as well as handling worker status in multiple industries. The team consists of a number of senior directors with wide-ranging expertise: Lucy Gordon boasts an established practice assisting international clients setting up in the UK; Charlotte Smith leads the sports work, acting for a number of major football clubs; Shabana Muneer heads up work relating to business immigration; and Lorna Hopps handles high-value transactional mandates.

Responsables de la pratique:

Andrew Rayment


Autres avocats clés:

Lucy Gordon; Charlotte Smith; Shabana Muneer; Lorna Hopps


Les références

They offer a very good mix of making us know we are a valued client and also having a breadth of services on offer. It has been refreshing to work with the team who always look to be innovative in their approach and champion diversity across their team and the industry.’

We absolutely adore working with Lucy Gordon. To sum it up simply, she gets us. She really understands what makes us tick as a business and has a great rapport with many of our employees. We really like the way Lucy applies the relevant employment law but with a very commercial interpretation alongside.’

The employment team have a wide range of skills and experience in all areas of employment disputes and an enviable client base. The cases are always very thoroughly investigated at an early stage to keep costs in check. The team ensure that all paperwork is immaculately presented and user friendly.’

Principaux clients

Lucozade Ribena Suntory


Burnley Football Club


Hallmark Cards Plc


Starbucks


Chipotle Mexican Grill


Menzies Distribution Group


British Steel


Hovis


Watford Football Club


Wavin


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising Hovis on diversity initiatives, recruitment, and disputes, including industrial action and union negotiation.
  • Advising British Steel on a significant strike which affected their operations and the impact on the workforce following the proposed closure of a blast furnace.
  • Advised Watford FC on the appointment of head coach, Slaven Bilić, successfully obtaining an FA governing body endorsement for him.

DAC Beachcroft LLP

DAC Beachcroft LLP has market-leading sector expertise in the insurance and healthcare spaces, and a broader offering that also encompasses a range of major corporate clients. Operating out of Leeds, employment litigation is a particular strength of the firm, handling a number of complex, sensitive, and high-profile mandates before the Employment Tribunal and appellate courts. The team also has a proven track record in significant restructurings and broader advisory work. Practice head Louise Bloomfield leads on the team’s insurer work with broad expertise across restructurings, TUPE, industrial relations, and restrictive covenants, while James Rhodes focusses on the team’s healthcare work. Associate Tim Gooder is noted for his restructuring work with the NHS.

Responsables de la pratique:

Louise Bloomfield


Autres avocats clés:

James Rhodes; Tim Gooder; Suki Attwal; Zoe Thomas; Andrew Tomlinson


Les références

Leaders in the use of technology and set the pace when it comes to hybrid working. The team is very knowledgeable, especially with regard to industrial disputes and NHS employment matters.’

Louise Bloomfield is a leader in her field and one of the most respected employment lawyers in the Leeds area.’

Responsive, contactable and taking a practical approach to advice in handling complex issues and people. Ability to adapt their approach where appropriate, thinking of both service and people needs.’

Principaux clients

NHS England


McDonald’s Restaurants Ltd


DHL


Royal Mail


Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS FT


BUPA


HSS Hire


Zurich Insurance


Currys


Unilever


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising Sainsbury’s on large-scale equal pay litigation, dealing with over 9,000 claims drawing a comparison between retail and distribution staff.
  • Advising a well known PLC on the intra-group transfer of 1000s of employees in the UK and Ireland to a newco following a lengthy TUPE consultation process.
  • Acting for employers in mass litigation brought by more than 120 care workers who were dismissed for refusing to be vaccinated against COVID.

Pinsent Masons LLP

Pinsent Masons LLP's Leeds-based employment team leverages the national resources of the firm to provide teams of sector-specialists across a range of industries, in addition to drawing upon the capabilities of other adjacent practices, such as data protection and immigration, to offer a depth of service. Jon Fisher heads the local team while also coordinating the national work for major retail clients and employment mandates related to financial services. Also of note in the Leeds office are senior associates Joe McMorrow, the firm’s global head for sports employment with an increasing focus on tech; Kate Dodsworth, who is responsible for higher education work; and Ben Brown, who is developing a specialism in the life sciences arena.

Responsables de la pratique:

Jon Fisher; Helen Corden


Autres avocats clés:

Joe McMorrow; Kate Dodsworth; Ben Brown


Les références

The team have several strengths that I have seen since I have been working with them: they are quick to respond, proactive, reactive and pragmatic. They will always work with you to find a solution that is right for your business, and put some great recommendations forward.’

They differ from competitors in that they are solutions oriented, quick to respond, and pragmatic. I always feel like they go above and beyond with their approach, and are happy to accept challenge and come to the right solution for the business. Ben Brown is who we deal with on a day-to-day basis, and I would highly recommend him.’

Always responsive, and able to deal with enquiries straight away. We have a long standing relationship and feel that they very much understand our business and our culture which is important in how we manage employee relation issues. I typically work with Jon Fisher at Leeds, and he is very much considered a trusted advisor.’

Principaux clients

Centrica plc


British Gas


RSA Insurance plc


Royal London


Tesco


Liverpool FC


Marshalls plc


NHS Property Services


International Personal Finance plc


Leeds Beckett University


University of Lincoln


University of Sheffield


Principaux dossiers


  • Supporting Tesco with all of its UK Employment Tribunal litigation.
  • Advised Northside Investments on their bid to acquire Chelsea FC.
  • Defending a leading technology company from a claim by its former CEO which could result in the highest award made by a UK Employment Tribunal.

Shoosmiths LLP

Shoosmiths LLP focusses on providing wide-ranging advisory services for clients, working closely with major companies to improve their everyday employment-related practices, while also being noted for proven capabilities in high-profile Employment Tribunal litigation, restructuring mandates, and sensitive executive-level departures. Phil Crowe heads the Leeds-based practice, with a specialism in defence of worker status and gig economy claims, and a track record in strike action and union recognition cases. He works alongside the national employment team head Paul Stokey, also based in Leeds, who is able to leverage the broader resources of the firm to advise clients with a nationwide reach.

Responsables de la pratique:

Paul Stokey; Phil Crowe


Les références

‘The Shoosmiths employment team are excellent and offer great client care. I have a very high volume of litigation with them, and they provide a very high-end service.’

‘They are always very efficient and work really well with our employees, many of whom have not been involved in litigation previously.’

‘Shoosmiths have either won or helped us efficiently settle every litigation matter that they were instructed on in the last year.’

Principaux clients

Boots PLC


Alliance Healthcare Management Services Limited


Wm Morrison Supermarkets PLC


The Constellation Automotive Group


We Buy Any Car Limited


Cinch Cars Limited


Marshalls Motor Group


Vaultex UK Limited


Next PLC


A1 Comms Limited


Meadow Foods Limited


The IDH Group


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising BCA Logistics on an on-going defence of a 500+ Claimant Employment Tribunal class action by employed trade plate drivers claiming worker status.
  • Advised Capfun UK on its share acquisition of ClawfordLakes, Lakeview Manor, and Otter Falls holiday parks.
  • Acting for the Alliance Healthcare Management Services Limited on all of the Employment Tribunal claims and general advice queries.

Blacks Solicitors LLP

Besides its broad capabilities across the full range of contentious and non-contentious employment matters, Blacks Solicitors LLP provides a niche offering in advising clients on actions against the police and the Ministry of Defence, and on behalf of GP surgeries, dentists, sports professionals, and recruitment businesses. Paul Kelly co-heads the team, handling matters involving redundancy, disciplinary matters, and grievance procedures, alongside co-head Tom Moyes, who specialises in the national minimum wage and work for agency workers. Chris Allen, who also works as part of the sports team, assists in senior departures and shareholder disputes.

Responsables de la pratique:

Paul Kelly; Tom Moyes


Autres avocats clés:

Chris Allen; David Ward


Les références

The team at Black’s always make you feel welcome and answer any queries, quickly making you feel at ease.’

David Ward is who I have worked with on a number of occasions. His knowledge of employment law is impeccable and he has always given me sound advice that has benefited the decisions I have then made. He knows when to move on a case and always explains the risks if any are involved. I have recommended David to family and friends who needed advice previously, as I fully trust his ability and expertise when dealing with employment law.’

Very easy to deal with. Open and timely communication.’

Principaux clients

Really Useful Products Limited


EMS-FP&S Truck & Trailer Parts


Augean PLC


BigChange Limited


Southern Wind Limited


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Timothy Lumb on a successful claim for whistleblowing against Greater Manchester Police before the Employment Tribunal and Employment Appeal Tribunal.
  • Advised Kandice Farrow on a successful employment tribunal claim for disability discrimination against a firm of solicitors.
  • Advising Eville & Jones Group on its acquisition of Vorenta Group.

Capsticks LLP

Capsticks LLP specialises in advising public sector clients on the full range of employment mandates, working across the healthcare, social care, emergency services, housing, and charities sectors. The firm has been particularly active in relation to various NHS Trusts, advising locally and nationally on a number of critical contentious and non-contentious matters. Co-head Rachael Heenan shares the public sector focus of the wider practice, regularly assisting health and social care clients on employment and governance issues. Heenan works alongside co-lead Alistair Kernohan, who advises clients across a range of sectors, including healthcare, the emergency services and police, local authorities, and charities.

Responsables de la pratique:

Rachel Heenan; Alistair Kernohan


Les références

‘Very experienced and down-to-earth. They really understand healthcare and the challenges that brings. They think strategically in employment relations cases and can explain complex legal arguments in simple terms.’

‘Friendly and approachable. Rachael Heenan and Alistair Kernohan have provided excellent support to me on employment relations cases. Rachael gained the trust of my CEO in a particularly difficult case which made the process much easier.’

Worked with the team on a long-running case and the particular standout was their adaptability in light of feedback and the amount of time they dedicated to ensure we were kept properly (and promptly) informed throughout the case.

Principaux clients

Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Foundation Trust


Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust


Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust


NHS South West London ICB


Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust


Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust


South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust


The Chief Constable of Humberside Police


Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Foundation Trust


Principaux dossiers


  • Supported Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Foundation Trust to enable the deployment of staff across the Integrated Care System, ‘Joined Up Care Derbyshire’.
  • Advising an NHS Trust on mitigating the potential risk to patients following the short-notice stepping down of clinical activity of a local Children’s Hospice.
  • Supported a police force in defending a multi-respondent claim for discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and age, harassment, victimisation, flexible working, and unfair dismissal.

Clarion

Clarion provides a range of employment services, with capabilities across litigation, business immigration, and strategy. It is particularly noted for the strength of the training that it provides to its clients. Sarah Tahamtani heads the team and is highly experienced in advising the boards and management of international corporate clients. He is supported by Chris Booth, whose particular expertise is in board-level departures. Below partner level, Deborah Warren has experience in restructuring and redundancies; Joanna Dodd is active in litigation and strategy; and Suzanne Treen has an established track record in discrimination and whistleblowing claims.

Responsables de la pratique:

Sarah Tahamtani


Autres avocats clés:

Chris Booth; Deborah Warren; Joanna Dodd; Suzanne Treen


Les références

‘The employment team are a pleasure to instruct. They take the time to understand clients’ businesses and tailor their advice to meet client needs.’

Irwin Mitchell

Irwin Mitchell has impressive capabilities across both advisory work and in defending Employment Tribunal cases, possessing specialist knowledge of the education, financial services, manufacturing, retail and consumer, technology, and private wealth sectors. The practice has also grown with the promotion of Padma Tadi-Booth to partner in May 2022, and she has a focus on specialist status issues, as well as an increased amount of work in major settlements and industrial relation mandates. Glenn Hayes heads the team in Leeds with a specialisation in restrictive covenants and all matters relating to senior level employees. He works alongside Jenny Arrowsmith, who leads in the practice’s noteworthy education sector work.

Responsables de la pratique:

Glenn Hayes


Autres avocats clés:

Padma Tadi-Booth; Jenny Arrowsmith


Les références

We feel that the team at Irwin Mitchell keep us safe. Always on hand to answer a general query and there to guide us through some of the trickier elements that arise in education.’

‘Our main contact is an employment specialist, but we know that any query sent will be passed on to colleagues in the relevant field.’

Jenny Arrowsmith is personable, helpful and professional. She understands the challenges that are faced in the education sector and we do not need to explain too much as she has normally come across a similar issue before.

Principaux clients

Amino Communications plc


Association of Colleges


Begbies Traynor Plc


Capita PLC


Cash Converters


Costa Coffee


DAS


ERS Medical


Floorbrite Group


Firesprite Gaming


Headway Group


Henry Boot PLC


Maher Limited


MJ Gleeson plc


New College Durham


Newson Health Limited


North Huddersfield Trust School


Overgate Hospice


Premex Services Limited


Pure Gym


Westfield Health


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised a large number of Colleges on the impact of the Harpur Trust and Brazel holiday pay case for term-time workers.
  • Advised Capita plc on a £6m ten day Employment Tribunal claim for whistleblowing and race discrimination.
  • Advised a senior executive in the Formula 1 business and negotiated a six figure settlement to leave employment and a waiver of his restrictive covenants.

Lupton Fawcett

Based in Leeds, Lupton Fawcett has capabilities relating to the full range of employment matters, with a particular sector strength in education. Andrew Gilchrist chairs the department, employing his substantial expertise in relation to a wide range of employment and HR issues in his work with employers and high-level employees. Angela Gorton has notable experience in matters regarding the construction, housebuilding, logistics, manufacturing, and education sectors, while York-based Tom Watkins is active in relation to both day-to-day mandates and strategic projects in the independent school space.

Responsables de la pratique:

Andrew Gilchrist


Autres avocats clés:

Angela Gorton; Tom Watkins


Principaux clients

Bauer Group Limited


Simpson Millar LLP


The King’s School, Canterbury


Darchem Engineering Limited


Pocklington School


Barnard Castle School


Hymers College


Adva Optical Networking Limited


Vet Partners


Steve Clayton


Terrington Hall Preparatory School


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Bauer Group on the departure of a director/shareholder in relation to shareholder issues, unfair prejudice, the defence of tribunal proceedings and data protection issues.
  • Advised the King’s School Canterbury on numerous employment issues.

Mills & Reeve LLP

Mills & Reeve LLP's employment department leverages the sector strengths of the firm in healthcare, education, and the public sector to bear on the local market, with capabilities across Employment Tribunal disputes, transactional work, and industrial relations. The firm’s offering in healthcare has been bolstered by the promotion of industry-specialist Rebecca Pallot to partner, working alongside the ‘experienced, pragmatic, easy to work with and unflappableStuart Craig, who heads the team with expertise in disputes. The team is also able to employ its ‘commercial sensitivities‘ to assist corporate clients in their employment mandates.

Responsables de la pratique:

Stuart Craig


Autres avocats clés:

Rebecca Pallot


Les références

Amazingly pragmatic advice which takes into account how you operate as a client and internal risk appetite. A good common sense approach, which is well-thought through and based on outcomes. The team have an excellent knowledge of the law and don’t waste time by quoting it at you.

Stuart Craig is experienced, pragmatic, easy to work with and unflappable. Couldn’t recommend him highly enough.’

The employment team at Mills & Reeve is an outstanding group of people to work with. The team as a whole demonstrate that, in addition to in-depth legal knowledge, they understand the client’s commercial sensitivities and are able to offer advice on the best strategy with that in mind.

Principaux clients

HM Land Registry


Rema Tip Top Industry UK Limited


Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust


Leeds & York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust


Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust


University of Bradford


The Prince’s Trust


The Children’s Trust


VetPartners Limited


University of Hull


Lancashire & South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust


NHS England


Ward Hadaway LLP

Ward Hadaway LLP has expertise advising on the full scope of employment matters, with a strong presence in the transport and private healthcare sectors. Practice head Harmajinder Hayre is also the national head for employment, working across the retail, financial and professional services, technology, and transport sectors on issues relating to industrial action, restructurings, and disciplinary hearings. Edward Nuttman leads the team on Employment Tribunal work, with a specialism in the transport sector, and Flora Mewies heads up immigration matters, focussing on the recruitment, technology, and healthcare sectors.

Responsables de la pratique:

Harmajinder Hayre


Autres avocats clés:

Edward Nuttman; Flora Mewies


Les références

Efficient at providing solutions to potential problems and scenarios we would encounter. A true partnership in enabling us to overcome any contractual issues.

Harmajinder Hayre was great to deal with; always came back to me on my queries, provided solutions to any issues that could arise, understood the full landscape of our problems, and enabled me to take our business forward without any bumps or legal issues. I would highly recommend him for the service he gave us!

I have worked closely with Harmajinder Hayre on a wide variety of issues and I always find his advice clear, pragmatic and solutions focussed. There is no waffle with Harmajinder; he goes straight to the heart of an issue and gives you the pros and cons of a solution. He always gets back to me and is responsive, which I really value, as quite often my needs are time sensitive.’

Principaux clients

RATP London


Stagecoach North East


Turner & Townend Ltd


Photobox


Weir Minerals Plc


Grosvenor Integrated Services Limited


Paccor Packing Gmbh


Maria Mallaband Care Group


Naylor Wintersgill Chartered Accountants


Springfield Healthcare


Weightmans

Weightmans is primarily active across litigation, project work, and risk management, with a specialism in dealing with industrial disputes and organisational change management. The team has a significant presence in the healthcare and public sectors, while practice head Ben Daniel‘s particular involvement is in industrial disputes relating to transport. As an advocate, he is also active in relation to Employment Tribunal hearings, much like Nick Newman, who also provides strategic advice across the full spectrum of work.

Responsables de la pratique:

Ben Daniel


Autres avocats clés:

Nick Newman


Les références

The employment team has a keen customer-focused approach, seeking to understand what is important to the client and what the customer is seeking in respect of issue resolution. The legal expertise offered is exceptional, well considered and thought through, and delivered in a way that makes it easier for the client to understand opportunities and risk and determine its approach.’

‘Nick Newman is an amazing lawyer; professional in his approach and clearly well versed in his specialism. He is clear in his guidance and advice, takes time to understand and clarify issues, and delivers clarity in respect of risk and opportunity. Nick is calm and assured and works through problems with seemingly effortless ease in order to identify options for management and resolution. Nick is a joy to work with.

All individuals are extremely knowledgeable and helpful with queries, responding quickly to queries. Nick Newman works with us closely, understanding the nuances of the industry we work in and he is on hand when needed. He is always able to respond to queries or situations we are experiencing, and where not possible immediately, will come back when he says he will.’

Principaux clients

FirstGroup


National Express


Turners


Hoyer Group


West Yorkshire Combined Authority


Cafcass


Phoenix Futures


Harrogate & District NHS Foundation Trust


Mid-Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust


Calderdale & Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust


Principaux dossiers


  • Supporting the National Transport Provider with the management, defence, and attendance at hearings for Employment Tribunal claims.
  • Acted for an NHS Trust in relation to a disputed TUPE transfer, with both the client and another employer claiming no responsibility for certain terminated employees.
  • Acting for a University client in the defence of an Employment Tribunal claim from a member of academic staff.

Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP

The Leeds employment team at Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP leverages the resources of the wider firm to advise a range of both local and national employers, with an established sector specialism in the chemical, manufacturing, and utilities industries, as well as growing capabilities in charities and education. Gearalt Fahy chairs the Leeds group, having joined from Gateley Legal in October 2022, with a particular focus on corporate clients in the energy, construction, manufacturing, and retail sectors. Managing associate Ed Duffield is also of note for his Employment Tribunal focus.

Responsables de la pratique:

Gearalt Fahy


Autres avocats clés:

Ed Duffield


Les références

Highly specialised areas of practice, particularly in the healthcare sector. I have worked with WBD on a large number of complex Tribunals.

‘The team work well together to cover for each other over periods of leave and do well in handovers so as a client I don’t feel I have to explain any case over and over.’

Principaux clients

Dnata Limited


Royal Academy of Dramatic Art


Ordnance Survey Limited


Value Demonstration Group


Sanderson Weatherall LLP


Huntsman


Ampleforth College


Saint Catherine’s Hospice


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising Dnata’s senior leadership and HR teams on employment-related issues, including furlough arrangements, restructuring, TUPE, trade union issues, and disputes.
  • Assisting Ordnance Survey Limited on a variety of complex matters concerning a number of potentially contentious employment matters, some of which were resolved through negotiated settlements.

Consilia Legal

Consilia Legal is best known for its litigation specialism, with an established track record in whistleblowing and discrimination matters before the Employment Tribunal. It also has demonstrable capabilities in relation to senior departures, representing both high-level employees and employers in this regard. Marie Walsh heads the practice and co-directs the entire firm, with broad capabilities across employment and qualification as a workplace mediator.

Responsables de la pratique:

Marie Walsh


Gateley Legal

Gateley Legal operates a broad practice across a range of sectors, including logistics, financial services, rail, air, construction, engineering, and charities, and the group works with corporate clients locally, nationally, and abroad. Paul Ball heads the practice in Leeds, providing ‘sound, commercial and pragmatic advice’ for a range of clients, with discrimination, business transfers, and in-house client training being areas of particular activity.

Responsables de la pratique:

Paul Ball


Les références

Paul is the go-to person in Leeds for commercial employment advice. Paul has a vast array of experience in the area and his pragmatic approach is valued by clients and other lawyers. Paul is the go-to person for me if I have an issue or question and he is always happy to help; working collaboratively with other professionals is a strength.

The team are pragmatic, responsive and wise. Their advice is excellent and straightforward. Much of their work is for corporates but they have also been very helpful and equally attentive to individuals, which differentiates them from many in the employment market.’

Paul Ball, the head of the practice, is particularly good. Despite his seniority, he’s always super responsive. He has well-placed and high confidence in his team if he’s not around. He never leaves you hanging.’

Principaux clients

Bridon-Bekaert the Ropes Group


Wabtec Rail Limited


Leeds Bradford Airport Limited


Deep Sea Electronics Limited


Sue Ryder


Loram UK Limited


StepChange


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Remedy Healthcare Solutions on an IR35 and worker/employment status audit.
  • Advised a rail sector client on resolutions to an industrial dispute and challenging the unions about the behaviour of people on the picket line.

McCormicks

McCormicks specialises particularly in employment law relating to sports organisations, with football and shooting being the two primary points of focus. The Harrogate team is active in relation to non-contentious work and it is led by Peter McCormick, who is eminent in the sports sector. Iain Jenkins is another name of note, and he acts across the technology, manufacturing, financial services, recruitment, transport, and healthcare sectors.

Responsables de la pratique:

Peter McCormick


Autres avocats clés:

Iain Jenkins


Les références

They have a strong understanding of data protection legislation in general, but especially as it applies to the field of occupational health.’

Iain Jenkins is an exceptional solicitor, being both knowledgeable and approachable. He explained the process to us regarding our issue, allowing us to make an evidenced-based and informed decision regarding our case. He was responsive, illuminating and professional. A joy to work with.’

‘Really good service, good at listening and providing options to be taken, which are very clearly explained. Efficient and friendly. Superb service.’

Principaux clients

The Premier League


Professional Game Match Officials Limited


Leeds United Football Club Limited


Norwich City FC


Harrogate Town AFC Ltd


The Premier League Charitable Fund Ltd


Harrogate International Festivals Ltd


Walsall FC


Yorkshire Agricultural Society


Rudding Park


Redline Specialist Cars


Principaux dossiers


  • Advising Professional Game Match Officials on numerous matters originally arising from the pandemic and issues relating to officials, working practices, and various capability issues.
  • Advising Professional Game Match Officials on a key case before the Supreme Court on worker status against HMRC.
  • Advising Leeds United on an ongoing basis and following a new HR appointment.

Raworths

Operating from Harrogate, Raworths has experience handling advisory, contentious, and transactional mandates for its clients. Deborah Boylan, as practice head, brings her experience in industry to provide commercial advice, working alongside Sally Togher, who supports the corporate team in providing employment advice on transactions and works with individuals on their senior-level departures. Associates Liz Pollock and Harjeet Nangla have specialisms in schools and data protection respectively.

Responsables de la pratique:

Deborah Boylan


Autres avocats clés:

Sally Togher; Liz Pollock; Harjeet Nangla


Les références

This firm provides a fantastic service in employment law with a strong team of knowledgeable solicitors. They are all very approachable and easily contactable and their knowledge of employment law is second-to-none. They embrace all the new technologies available and respond promptly to calls if not available. Meetings can take place either face to face or online, which provides great flexibility for clients.’

Sally Togher was very approachable and carefully listened to the position that I was facing, as well as fully understanding the details of my employment contract. She was very knowledgeable about what my employment rights were and to what I would be entitled. Throughout the whole process she kept me fully informed and was always chasing up my employer if she had had no response from them.’

The have a strong, diverse presence in the local area, being renowned for their ability to resolve difficult issues. A team with differing specialisms within a well-respected practice.’

Principaux clients

Lomond Capital


Linley & Simpson Limited


Schofield Sweeney

Schofield Sweeney provides a strong offering in contentious work, but also has capabilities in respect of restructurings, redundancies, and advisory work. Education is a particular sector focus for the firm, but healthcare, housing, and immigration are also spaces of activity. Simon Shepherd heads the Leeds-based practice and specialises in education, as does the newly promoted Annie Gray, while John Robinson focusses on corporate clients.

Responsables de la pratique:

Simon Shepherd


Autres avocats clés:

Annie Gray; John Robinson


Les références

Warm and friendly staff with considerable expertise and sector knowledge. Partners are very available and respond promptly to any enquiry. Staff go above and beyond to support, often with a pragmatism and solution-focused approach that is refreshing in this sector.’

‘Our support package represents exceptional value for money in the way that it is highly tailored to our specific needs and context. The firm often runs events which are highly informative and provide excellent networking opportunities.

‘Simon Shepherd is highly efficient, with nuanced understanding of the context of our organisation; he has lots of integrity but with a lightness of touch and a sense of humour that makes him a pleasure to work with.’

Principaux clients

GMI Construction Group PLC


Wakefield and District Housing Limited


DMC Mining Services (UK) Limited


Wellspring Academy Trust


Carlton Academy Trust


Greenhous Group Limited


Alpek Polyester UK Ltd


Eville & Jones (GB) Ltd


Barca Leeds


Torque Retail Services Ltd


TOG24


McCarthy’s Removals and Storage Ltd


Barwick Bathroom Distribution LLP


Techbuyer Limited


Torque Law LLP

Torque Law LLP has niche expertise in executive departures, advising both high-profile executives and employers on the relevant issues, both regionally and nationally, from York. Practice head Emma Whiting employs her ‘top-class, pragmatic perspective' to these mandates, and has worked for notable employers on a number of contentious matters, including discrimination and unfair dismissal claims. Tiggy Clifford handles a similar caseload, working across senior-level departures and contentious mandates.

Responsables de la pratique:

Emma Whiting; Tiggy Clifford


Les références

Attention to detail and tailoring the advice in a very personal way.’

Their commitment is breath-taking. Also, their levels of empathy and understanding for the challenges and injustices being faced have been a fantastic support for us. The team are there for you and each other no matter what.’

Excellent level of partner service and practical advice.’

Principaux clients

Alvar Financial Services Limited


David Pelter


Anglo American Woodsmith Limited


Sofina Foods


Emerald Publishing Group


Saint Catherine’s Hospice


Greenray Turbine Solutions


Bartoline Limited


Stage One Creative Services Limited


York Racecourse


Northpoint Wellbeing Limited


Belmont Green Finance Limited


Principaux dossiers


  • Acted for David Pelter in the Employment Appeal Tribunal in relation to a high-profile direct age discrimination claim regarding the cessation of PHI benefits.
  • Defended Alvar Financial Services Limited successfully in an application for interim relief brought by a former employee against.

Wrigleys Solicitors LLP

Wrigleys Solicitors LLP specialises in advising charities and educational establishments on the full breadth of employment issues, with a particular emphasis on assisting trustees. Chris Billington heads the practice in Leeds, with expertise cutting across data protection, senior staff, employment contracts, worker statements, and trustee disputes; he works alongside Sue King, who, in addition to working closely with the firm’s wider charities and pensions offering, specialises in discrimination issues before the Employment Tribunal.

Responsables de la pratique:

Chris Billington


Autres avocats clés:

Sue King; Alacoque Marvin


Les références

‘We have always been very pleased with the work and advice we have received from Wrigleys, whether this is ad hoc HR advice on employee relations or a larger piece of project work. They are attentive, understand our business, and are flexible and willing to provide tailored advice at all times.’

‘Alacoque Marvin was our main contact and is excellent. She understands our business needs, will always offer tailored advice, and works hard with us to ensure the right outcomes.’

‘The employment law team has a great understanding of the needs of the NFP sector and are willing to share ideas and to help support our clients, even if it is for a limited piece of work. I like the in-depth understanding of the sector, which includes active involvement with at least one of the governing bodies, which helps to provide some additional insight where this will help the client.’

Berwins

Berwins works with a number of SMEs and employees on a broad sweep of issues, and has been developing its offering in data protection. Mike Patterson heads the team in Harrogate and undertakes a range of work, advising employees, professional sports people, and company directors across various sectors.

Responsables de la pratique:

Mike Patterson


Principaux clients

Champion Health Limited


Belzona Polymerics Limited


The Dextrous Web Limited


Fineline VAR Limited


GV&Co


Greyhound Box


It’s Clean Limited


Supreme Search Specialists


Xiros Limited


Harrogate Business Improvement District


Principaux dossiers


  • Acted for Champion Health in a range of employment maters arising from a multi-million-pound sale of this innovative wellbeing business.

Bevan Brittan LLP

Bevan Brittan LLP has a sector specialism in healthcare and housing, supporting clients on a range of issues with capabilities across contentious and transactional mandates. Jodie Sinclair heads the national practice, with the Leeds-based team of Nigel Bolton and legal director Andrew Uttley working on pensions and NHS mandates respectively.

Responsables de la pratique:

Jodie Sinclair


Autres avocats clés:

Nigel Bolton; Andrew Uttley


Les références

On the whole, I find Bevan Brittan to be supportive and collaborative. I appreciate and actively seek their advice, whether it’s a formal employment law case or a highly complex issue. I find their advice sensible and pragmatic, and in the more formal interactions I find them genuinely supportive and engaged.

‘Responsive and knowledgeable.’

The practice has taken the time to build relationships with key stakeholders and acts as a trusted source of advice as we navigate complex employment matters. We are always quickly triaged to the correct person with the specialist knowledge to respond to our enquiries.’

Principaux clients

Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust


Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust


Financial Conduct Authority


Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust


Barts Health NHS Trust


Holmes Care Group Ltd


St Georges Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust


Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust


Isle of Wight NHS Trust


Barnet, Enfield and Haringey Mental Health NHS Trust


Active Care Group


Holmes Care Group


Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust


Rockline Industries Limited


Oxfordshire County Council


Catalyst Housing Limited and Peabody Trust


Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust


Rehability UK Community Ltd


University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust


Medway NHS Foundation Trust


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised and represented Barts Health NHS Trust in relation to 54 Employment Tribunal claims from 28 claimants arising out of a TUPE transfer and related contractual disputes.
  • Advised Holmes Care Group on a range of workforce and HR initiatives following the acquisition of 12 care homes in Fife, Scotland from Kingdom Homes.
  • Advised Catalyst Housing Limited and Peabody Trust on relation to a merger to form PeabodyGroup, with a merged turnover of £664m

gunnercooke LLP

Gunnercooke LLP continues to grow its presence in the region, working in conjunction with other national offices, in addition to undertaking a range of contentious matters from its Leeds office. Jo Tindall, Joan Pettingill, and Mini Setty are noted for the breadth of their practice, while Angela Brumpton has experience in unfair dismissal and discrimination claims. Paul Menham and Ed Jenneson have expertise in the Equality Act and redundancy mandates.

Autres avocats clés:

Jo Tindall; Mini Setty; Angela Brumpton; Joan Pettingill; Ed Jenneson; Paul Menham


Les références

‘Reliable, personable and attuned to the risk appetite of the organisation. Easily available and rapidly responding to issues as they arise. Feels like part of the team rather than an external stakeholder’

‘Paul Menham is knowledgeable, realistic, transparent and to the point. He does not try to overcomplicate issues and cuts through complex issues in an easy to understand way. Paul is personable and approachable and emotionally invests in supporting his clients.’

‘They are all experienced solicitors with over ten years experience, so you know the advice you receive will be to the highest standard.’

Principaux clients

Premier Technical Services Group Limited


Thomas of York


Bishop Burton College


Transaction Network Services Limited


Orion Himes Ltd


Cafeology Limited


SolarFrame Holdings


Aprolis UK


Homes for Students


Prince of Wales Hospice


St Gemma’s Hospice


Yorkshire Sculpture Park


Halton Housing


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised the UK arm of Hologic Limited, a global women’s health business, on its employment matters.
  • Advised Sheffield Forgemasters International Limited on employment law matters.
  • Acting as sole employment adviser to Sir Robert McAlpine Limited.

LCF Law

LCF Law works with SMEs and senior executive employees in the professional services and healthcare sectors, providing a range of services. James Austin heads up the employment team, undertaking his own advocacy in the Employment Tribunal and representing employees from a range of sectors in their claims.

Responsables de la pratique:

James Austin


Les références

I have known James Austin in a professional capacity for almost two decades and over that period, James has always come across as someone who thinks outside the box, provides solutions, and resolves complex cases in a timely manner. His knowledge in his area of specialism is remarkable.’

We have used LCF Law for many different issues, and always find them responsive to our needs.’

‘Our main dealings at LCF have been with James Austin: his methodical in his approach, and always delivers excellent, easy to understand information.

Ramsdens Solicitors LLP

Ramsdens Solicitors LLP is weighted to senior individuals and matters involving discrimination and whistleblowing. David Bradley heads the Huddersfield team, working on trade unions and changes in management, alongside Paul Booth, who is active in relation to disputes and Employment Tribunal claims.

Responsables de la pratique:

David Bradley


Autres avocats clés:

Paul Booth; Emily Walker


Les références

Emily Walker is extremely responsive, well organised, and has an excellent grasp of the law. She provides a level of service beyond many of her peers practising in London.’

Emily Walker was fabulous: she’s young, hungry for success, dynamic, and she worked so very hard on my case; I had every faith in her. She was always there for me, by phone, by email or in person. Nothing was too much trouble; she supported me through an extremely difficult and long employment tribunal.’

‘Emily Walker would always be very clear and concise at delivering all of the facts, and she would speak in layman terms and not in legal jargon. I simply cannot praise Emily highly enough and I’m certain she has the brightest of futures ahead of her.

Principaux clients

Verizon UK Limited


Greenhead College


Manzana Contracts (UK) Limited


C&K Careers Limited


HGF Limited


Innovative Bites Ltd


Northern Belle Limited and West Coast Trains


A-Safe HQ Limited


rradar

rradar offers a broad service, both in terms of the claims that it handles and the sectors in which it works. In Leeds, senior solicitor Toni Haynes acts in contentious mandates for trade unions and individuals, and solicitors Tom Bernard and Janine Lawton defend Employment Tribunal claims. In Hull, solicitor Joshua Lee acts across a range of sectors.

Responsables de la pratique:

Robin White


Autres avocats clés:

Toni Haynes; Tom Bernard; Janine Lawton; Joshua Lee


Les références

The approach is very open, friendly and understanding. The knowledge level is good and the approach to risk is very balanced.’

Individuals go the extra mile to engage and understand. They are very professional and spend time explaining the issues. They understand the charity sector and how it is different.

‘Fully engaged, solid, professional experts who are able to give confident and productive information and insight.’

Principaux clients

Pallotine Missionary Sisters of the Catholic Apostolate


Abbatt Dual Management Ltd


Opus Care


Complete Sport Solutions


Exeter Leukaemia Fund


H I Weldrick Ltd


Principaux dossiers


  • Acted for a large property management company in successfully persuading the Employment Tribunal to strike out a disruptive claimant’s disability discrimination claim.
  • Defended a charity successfully against a claim for unfair dismissal, unlawful deduction of wages, and whistleblowing detriment made by a former employee.
  • Defended a large family run network of pharmacies successfully against a claim for constructive unfair dismissal and discrimination worth £169,000.

Stone King LLP

Stone King LLP has a major sector focus in education, but also undertakes some work for charities and businesses across the transport and hospitality sectors. Polly O’Malley heads the team in Leeds, with expertise in education and acting as the deputy head of the firm’s education sector. Craig Vincent similarly specialises in education.

Responsables de la pratique:

Jean Boyle; Polly O’Malley


Autres avocats clés:

Craig Vincent


Les références

What stands out from colleagues at Stone King is that the advice is pragmatic and empathetic: the legal position is made clear and the probabilities attached to risks are spelled out in a way that supports, rather than unduly constrains, management decisions.’

From Polly O’Malley, I have valued particularly her availability, the directness of her advice, and the pragmatism and empathy shown to the management position. I always feel like she and her colleagues are on our side, even if the advice is not what we want to hear.

The team has a good depth of employment law expertise in the education sector and have given us helpful and pragmatic support and advice through a number of very complex cases over the last couple of years.