Nelsons co-founder stands down as chief executive

East Midlands law firm Nelsons Solicitors has announced that its co-founder is to step down as chief executive.

Tim Hastings, who co-founded Nelsons in 1983 and has been the chief executive since 2003, will become the chairman and will remain as a member of the board.

Partner in the firm’s dispute resolution team Stewart Vandermark, who has worked at Nelsons since 2001 and has been a board member since 2008, has taken on the role of chief executive.

Hastings said: “Having spent more than 30 years in a management and leadership role at Nelsons, I am committed to ensuring that the future of the firm is bright, stable and full of opportunity for growth and so I see it as of the utmost importance that there is a gradual, seamless handover of my position to Stewart.

“It is imperative for a firm of our size and reputation to have a strong succession plan in place. I have always been a strong advocate for succession from within, rather than an external appointment, as it means the person taking on the role will already be immersed in the values, ethos and ambitions of our business.

“Stewart has the commitment, drive and flair to continue our growth and to inspire our staff to be the best in their specialist areas, and I am committed to doing all I can to support him in his new role of chief executive at Nelsons Solicitors.”

Vandermark said: “I am delighted to take on the role of chief executive at Nelsons. It is a true honour to be backed by the resounding support and confidence of Tim, the board and the partners.

“Tim has set an extremely high benchmark for quality and ambition during his time as chief executive, as the journey he has taken the firm on illustrates. I am determined to ensure we continue to build on the values he has helped to establish, from the willingness to evolve and embrace new technology to drive our service standards through to the approachability and accessibility that our experts demonstrate.

“First and foremost our succession planning ensures our ability to continue to serve the legal needs of businesses and individuals across the East Midlands and beyond for the next phase of the firm’s journey.”

Nelsons has offices in Derby, Leicester and Nottingham.