The Third Annual Employee-Owned Law Firm Conference: A Day of Connection, Learning, and Inspiration
On 12th March 2025, we had the privilege of hosting the third annual Employee-Owned Law Firm Conference at the historic Armourers’ Hall in the City of London. The event brought together employee-owned law firms from across the UK, as well as those exploring the model, for a day packed with insightful discussions, shared experiences, and meaningful connections.
A Growing Movement in Law
Employee ownership (EO) is becoming an increasingly popular succession route for law firms, providing a sustainable and values-driven alternative to traditional structures. As pioneers in the field, we at Postlethwaite Solicitors were delighted to host this event once again, facilitating discussions that help shape the future of EO in the legal profession.
Key Themes and Discussions
The day featured a diverse range of sessions covering aspects of the EO model, with expert speakers sharing their knowledge and first-hand experiences.
Opening Address: The State of Employee Ownership
The day began with an insightful update from James de le Vingne, Chief Executive at the eoa, who provided an overview of the latest trends and developments in the EO sector. His presentation highlighted the growth of EO businesses, the increasing awareness of its benefits, and the opportunities and challenges ahead.
Myerson Solicitors’ Journey to EO
Carl Newton shared the story of Myerson Solicitors’ transition to employee ownership, outlining the motivations behind the move, the challenges they faced, and the successes they’ve seen since making the shift. His insights provided a valuable case study for firms considering a similar journey.
Succession Planning: Replacing the Traditional Partnership Model
One of the key sessions of the day was a panel discussion on succession planning, which tackled some of the most pressing questions for law firms transitioning to EO:
✅ What leadership structures work best for an EO business?
✅ How do we develop future leaders and plan for succession?
✅ How do we recognise and reward those who might have previously expected equity?
This engaging discussion featured insights from Kay Cook (Oliver & Co), Jonathan Wearing (Ison Harrison), and Lisa Bell (Progression Solicitors), each of whom shared their firm’s approach to leadership, succession, and reward structures within an EO framework.
Employee Engagement and the Employee Voice
Another highlight of the conference was a deep dive into employee engagement and the role of the employee voice in an EO business. This session featured perspectives from Lorna Martin (Postlethwaite Solicitors), Becky Williams (Talbots), and Liz Chapman (Oliver & Co), exploring how firms can create an inclusive culture where employees feel empowered, valued, and actively involved in decision-making.
Purpose-Driven Leadership: Workshop with Dr John Blakey
In the afternoon, Dr John Blakey, a leading executive coach, led a thought-provoking workshop based on his new book. He focused on how leaders in EO firms can adopt purpose-driven behaviours to thrive while balancing: ⭐ Profit ⭐ People ⭐ Planet
His interactive approach provided attendees with practical tools and strategies to enhance their leadership style in an EO environment.
Leveraging the EO Advantage: Branding and Identity
The final session of the day featured branding experts Arabella Lewis-Smith and Harry Pocknell from SALAD, who explored how EO firms can effectively communicate their unique identity. They shared strategies for leveraging the many advantages of being EO to strengthen brand positioning, attract talent, and differentiate in a competitive market.
A Special After-Dinner Address from Graeme Nuttall OBE
After a fantastic day of discussions and networking, the evening concluded with a wonderful dinner and an inspiring after-dinner talk from Graeme Nuttall OBE.
Graeme has played a pivotal role in shaping EO policy in the UK and beyond. As the UK Coalition Government’s independent adviser on employee ownership (2012–2015), he authored The Nuttall Review of Employee Ownership, which established the UK’s trust model of employee ownership (EOT). He is also the International Ambassador for the EOA and a Visiting Fellow at Oxford University’s Kellogg College. His speech reflected on his career-long involvement in employee ownership, offering valuable insights into the past, present, and future of EO.
Thank You to Our Speakers and Attendees
Our heartfelt thanks goes to all our speakers, panellists, and attendees who contributed to making this event a success. The discussions, connections, and shared learnings from the day will undoubtedly help shape the future of employee-owned law firms.
We look forward to continuing the conversation and seeing even more firms embrace the benefits of employee ownership in the legal sector!
If you would like to learn more about employee ownership for law firms please feel free to reach out via the details below.
#EmployeeOwnership #LawFirms #Collaboration #Leadership #EOModel #EmployeeEngagement
Find out how we could help your law firm transition to employee ownership with a no obligation chat. Contact us:
call 02038189420
email info@postlethwaiteco.com
or through the contact form here.