New team at the top of law firm

LAW firm Napthens Solicitors has new people at the helm following the appointment of David Cole as non-executive chairman.

Cole will lead the firm’s new executive board and brings with him significant experience in managing and developing SMEs and owner-managed businesses.

He oversaw the development of pharmacy business, L Rowland & Co to become the largest family-owned business in the sector, 3rd largest wholesaler and 4th largest pharmacy operator in the UK, before negotiating its sale to the German healthcare group Phoenix.

Working with Cole is John Whittingslow, who has been with Napthens since 2006 and becomes CEO of the firm, which operates offices in Preston, Blackburn, Blackpool and Penrith.

The executive team will include Simon Ainsworth, head of the firm’s Private Client division which incorporates the Family, Wills & Estate Planning, Wealth Management and Residential Property teams.

Keith Melling, as head of the Commercial Division, will oversee the corporate department, including the business recovery and tax services, employment and litigation.

Meanwhile, James Allison becomes head of the newly-created Real Estate division, which incorporates commercial property, leisure and licensing, construction and rural.

Qualified chartered accountant Shru Morris and as director of finance she has overall responsibility for the firm’s strategic and operational financial management.

Chief executive John Whittingslow said: “David’s appointment is a significant coup for the firm and his experience will play a key role in how we will grow from a sound business foundation with the delivery of high quality, specialist services to meet our clients’ evolving needs.
 
“Our long-held objective is to be the region’s pre-eminent law firm, representing ambitious and innovative businesses and individuals while employing the best people in our industry. The new executive team will give us the structure and drive to achieve this.”