Schofield Sweeney announces five new promotions

The Yorkshire-based law firm has started the year celebrating its team’s achievements by announcing five promotions.

Dan Bisby, has been promoted to partner in the corporate team. Dan specialises in acquisitions and disposals, with a particular focus on transactions within the professional and financial services sector.

“I am incredibly proud to have been promoted to partner and equally grateful for the opportunity to assist in taking the Corporate Team forward into 2022 and beyond.” said Dan Bisby.

“Dan’s promotion to partner is richly deserved and reflects upon his dedication and commitment to clients, as well as demonstrating our willingness to invest in our people for the long term. 2021 was another year of year on year growth for the Corporate team and we are delighted to welcome Jack Venable as a solicitor to add further strength and depth to a department which is in excess of 15 lawyers strong and continues to grow.” said partner Steven Millward.

Duncan Watson has been promoted to director in the private wealth team. Duncan advises landowners, business owners, and families with significant private wealth on inter-generational succession and inheritance.

"Since Duncan joined the firm in 2018, he has made a significant contribution to the ongoing growth and success of the Private Wealth & Succession team across our 3 offices. His promotion, and ongoing development and progression, recognises his fantastic skill set and role in the steps already taken by the team and the exciting future plans we have,” added Simon Glazebrook.

Abigail Falshaw has been promoted to associate in the commercial property team and Damian Kilroy has been promoted to associate in the litigation team.

Abi completed her trainee contract with Schofield Sweeney, qualifying in 2017, she advises clients on acquisitions of development sites, commercial landlord and tenant matters and real estate finance transactions.

“Abi’s promotion reflects her commitment to providing a first-class service. She works hard to assist and support colleagues, clients and the firm as well as good causes outside of the office. The quality of Abi’s work and her enthusiasm add significantly to the strength of the team," said partner Darren Birkinshaw.

Damian has a wide range of experience in insolvency and commercial disputes, often involving allegations of fraud. He regularly acts on behalf of insolvency professionals, private individuals and companies.

Ann-Marie Keighley is the firm’s first non-lawyer to be promoted to an associate.

Ann-Marie joined in 2014. During this time, she has led the firm’s marketing and communications strategy, building the brand and developing the values. She also manages the firm’s CSR, helping to raise over £60,000 for charity and local causes over the years.

“A new career progression framework was launched last year, creating a pathway to promotion for all members of the firm. I’m delighted to be Schofield Sweeney’s first non-lawyer to have been promoted to an associate; it demonstrates the value the firm puts on its marketing and business support services,” said Ann-Marie

“All of those promoted have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to client service and developing their practice areas. The promotions reflect Schofield Sweeney’s commitment to developing all team members and acknowledging their contribution to client service and the wider business. Well done all,” concluded COO Graham Sweeney.