Gillian Hall has been named as the new senior partner of Watson Burton law firm, which has offices in Newcastle, Leeds and London.  Gillian was the unanimous choice to lead the firm forward into its 200th year and well beyond.

She becomes one of the few female senior partners of a full service law firm in the UK and the first in the north of England.

Gillian has been a partner at Watson Burton since 1988. She has headed the firm’s corporate department for over 18 years, building strong teams in corporate finance and business services. Gillian also plays a leading role in a substantial number of the firm’s key client relationships, including Lloyds Banking Group plc and New York Stock Exchange listed Federal Signal Corporation. She remains firmly committed to continuing her work with clients.

Patrick Harwood, Watson Burton’s chief executive officer said: “The senior partner role is a key market-facing position which requires a highly experienced, credible presence. We know Gillian will fulfil that position exceptionally well. She has a strong reputation as an astute professional with excellent business and client relationships throughout the country.

“Gillian has the complete support of our partners in our continued focus on client care and the delivery of first rate service and results. Her expertise will also nurture a motivating environment in which our talented lawyers will thrive.”

Gillian Hall, who has a first-class degree from Cambridge, began her legal career in the City with Lovells. She is a highly accomplished practitioner who has been praised in national legal directories as the ‘complete professional’ and ‘someone you always want to have on your team’.

A farmer’s daughter, Gillian was born and brought up in the north east.  She has achieved exceptional results for the firm within her sector and, as an equity partner, contributed significantly to the overall direction and business strategy of Watson Burton.

Gillian said: “It is a privilege to be appointed senior partner in a firm characterised by its talent, determination to succeed and strong reputation, all of which are required to underpin long-term success. I am looking forward to working with our investor group in leading the firm’s growth and development. I am totally committed to building on our considerable strengths.” 

She is passionate about growing the firm with which she has been practising since 1985. She added: “Watson Burton has established a well-deserved position for being very client focused. I believe this is at the crux of all our long client relationships and it will continue to hallmark our approach and values in the future.

“The last year has not been an easy time for our firm or the legal sector generally. Despite this, Watson Burton continues to benefit from a strong, cohesive team of highly skilled lawyers and support staff who have the enthusiasm and expertise to drive the firm forward. I am looking forward to the exciting years ahead as senior partner of an outstanding, distinctive law firm.”

Watson Burton has been operating in Newcastle since 1811. It opened its Leeds city centre office in 2005 and its London office in 2006. It has won national and regional awards for the quality of its professional and client service.