Ward Hadaway has appointed James Foster as its new finance director, strengthening its senior team during a period of significant growth for the firm.
James brings extensive experience in venture capital and financial services. He has a strong track record of supporting companies of all sizes, providing financial guidance and strategic insight. His expertise will be instrumental in driving forward the firm’s expansion strategy, which includes the opening of a new Birmingham office this summer and ongoing merger discussions with Teesside-based The Endeavour Partnership LLP.
The appointment comes as the firm makes 34 new hires across its Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle offices in the first quarter of 2025. These include three partners, one director, three managing associates, three associates, four solicitors, two conveyancers, two paralegals and 15 professionals in business support roles across teams such as real estate, corporate finance and construction. Eight are based in the Leeds office.
Steven Petrie, managing partner said: “This time last year we set out ambitious plans to double the firm’s revenue within five years and reach £100m by 2034. Continuing to invest in talent and infrastructure and attracting the right people is essential to achieving this growth.
“James brings invaluable commercial and financial insight that will support our next phase of expansion. We’re also pleased to welcome new colleagues across our business who strengthen the specialist teams we’ve built across the entire firm.”
Other new starters include Tom Wills and Richard Bradbury who join the Real Estate department as partners, with Tom bringing substantial experience and expertise to the firm's agricultural team and Richard specialising in a wide range of commercial property matters. Meanwhile, Louise Masters brings almost two decades of experience in high value and complex financial remedy cases, as well as being a pioneer in the "one lawyer" approach to divorce settlements.
Ward Hadaway now employs over 500 people across its offices, with headcount expected to rise further as recruitment continues in line with the firm’s long-term strategy.
James Foster added: “It’s a very exciting time to be joining Ward Hadaway. The scale of the firm’s growth plans is ambitious, but the clarity of vision and client-first approach I’ve seen so far gives me every confidence in what’s ahead. I’m looking forward to contributing to a firm with such deep roots in its regions, an extremely strong and diverse client base, and a depth of legal talent.”
