Yorkshire law firm Ward Hadaway has reported a record financial performance in its latest filed accounts for 2023-24, with revenue rising by 7% to £48m.
This achievement marks a significant milestone in the firm’s history. Driven by strong growth across its Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle offices in a wide cross section of service areas, it demonstrates the firm’s robust financial health and commitment to sustainable growth.
Managing Partner Steven Petrie said: “These financial results from 2023-24 represent a really strong foundation on which to build, as we strive to realise our ambitious long-term growth plans, remaining independent and increasing our turnover by over 50% in the next five years and achieving £100m by 2034.
“It’s really encouraging to see the positive impact our strategic investments are already having on our business, including our ability to attract, recruit, retain and engage excellent people to the firm.”
Key hires in core practice areas and the firm’s focus on developing emerging talent remain a consistent theme. Last year, Ward Hadaway’s Leeds office welcomed Laura Hill as a Partner in the commercial litigation team. She brings specialist expertise and experience in handling AI-related litigation, a complex and developing area.
Across the entire firm, eight partners were appointed, representing a range of service sectors, alongside more than 100 new colleagues who joined throughout the year.
A key focus of Ward Hadaway’s strategy is its commitment to nurturing talent. In this last year, the firm appointed 14 new trainee solicitors and one solicitor apprentice across its offices bringing the total headcount to over 500.
Petrie continued: “We provide an environment where individuals can excel at every level, offering guidance, growth opportunities and the tools to fulfil their full potential. Our people are fundamental to our success. We are well-positioned to build on what we have already achieved and to deliver on our ambitious growth objectives.”
To adapt to the challenges of a rapidly changing legal landscape, the firm has made significant investments in technology and established a firm wide Innovation team to explore the role of AI in delivering legal services.
Ward Hadaway also remains focused on responsible business practices, working on initiatives to reduce its carbon impact, making contributions to over 50 charities and maintaining a strong focus on diversity, inclusion and wellbeing.
