Leeds law firm appoints business development director

A leading law firm based in Leeds has made a key strategic appointment with the creation of a new role to help drive further growth.

Alistair McDonald has been promoted to the position of business development director at Ward Hadaway, following a competitive recruitment process.

The appointment marks a key milestone for business development across the firm. One of Alistair’s first priorities is to support everyone at the firm, from trainee to partner, to develop the necessary skills and knowledge that help them to more effectively grow their client base.

Alistair’s extensive experience and proven track record in business development will enable him to work closely with the firm’s legal teams to identify new business opportunities, build strategic partnerships, and enhance client engagement initiatives. He will also establish a specific business development team that will help support growth across the firm.

Emma Digby, executive partner in Ward Hadaway’s Leeds office, said: “Alistair’s appointment is great news for Ward Hadaway as we continue our growth trajectory. He is a fantastic colleague with the experience and enthusiasm to take us to new heights. We’re keen to continue improving and expanding our business development skills and Alistair’s expertise will enable us to better identify and seize new opportunities, allowing us to grow our client base and further strengthen our existing relationships.

“By providing every employee with business development skills, and enabling an entrepreneurial culture across the firm, we can collectively contribute to the growth of Ward Hadaway. This will enable us to create even more exciting opportunities and propel the firm towards continued success. Congratulations, Alistair.”

The appointment follows the recent announcement of 19 firm-wide promotions. Three of these were made within the rapidly expanding Leeds team, which has grown by 16% in last 12 months.

Alistair McDonald said: “I’m delighted to join Ward Hadaway. The firm is well respected, forward thinking and filled with talent, and is already seeing solid growth across all its offices. Its ambitious plans for the future are what makes this role so exciting.

“An effective business development strategy plays a vital role in all successful organisations. By embedding business development into the fabric of the firm, Ward Hadaway aims to remain at the forefront of legal services in the North of England, driving innovation and providing exceptional service to its clients.

“I’m looking forward to working closely with our talented teams, utilising our collective expertise to build on the great progress we’ve made so far in cultivating new relationships and key partnerships across Yorkshire. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.”