People: Gateley Legal; Wright Hassall; Holt Commercial

Gateley Legal has expanded its construction team with the appointment of Michael Smyth as a partner at its Birmingham office.

Smyth joins the team from Stafford-based ORJ Law where he was a partner for 15 years. He joined his previous firm 19 years ago as a general litigator before specialising in construction law for the last decade. Smyth has a strong background in both contentious and non-contentious construction matters, having previously acted for developers and employers, as well as both contractors and subcontractors.

In his new role, Smyth will help widen the skill set of the team in Birmingham, as well as nationally, through his extensive construction law experience and expertise. He will also work closely with Gateley Legal’s property and banking teams. In addition, he will add weight to the Birmingham team by supporting and mentoring junior members and focusing on business development activities.

Smyth said: “I’m pleased to be joining the construction team at Gateley Legal. The opportunity to be part of a bigger team, with wider experience and more resources, was what really attracted me to the role. Previously, I was used to operating on my own, or as part of a very small team, so I’m looking forward to building on my experience alongside my new colleagues in the Birmingham office, as well as the wider national construction team.”

Emlyn Hudson, partner and head of construction at Gateley Legal, said: “We’re delighted to have Michael join our Birmingham construction team. Despite what is happening in the wider economic environment our construction team is extremely busy, especially with dispute-related matters. Michael brings the exact expertise and experience we need to support and add further strength to our team.”

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A law firm has announced an appointment to its growing commercial team on the back of new client wins.

Wright Hassall has appointed Melonie Dilworth to support all aspects of commercial transactions, with a particular focus on SMEs.

Dilworth arrives from social care provider Voyage Care, where she spent over two years as legal counsel.

Pete Maguire, partner and head of the outsourcing, technology and commercial team at Wright Hassall, which is based on Olympus Avenue in Leamington Spa, said: “I am delighted to welcome Melonie.

“We have been looking to add resource to the team for some time to support our growing client base across the commercial and technology sectors, and in particular our SME work.

“Melonie fits the bill for us and I am looking forward to seeing her develop here.

“We place a really big emphasis on meeting clients’ needs – it is about being practical, pragmatic, business savvy, and providing solutions to help build businesses.

“Having additional capacity within our team equips us with the tools to continue recent momentum and make a difference to our clients.”

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Ed Jenkinson joined regional commercial property agency Holt Commercial as a senior surveyor.

His most recent role was with Bruton Knowles before taking the opportunity to join Holt Commercial as the company continues to grow.

He said: “I was really pleased when the opportunity to join Holt arose. The company has a great history and reputation, and I am really looking forward to getting to know the area and the market.

“My particular specialism is in industrial – which is buoyant in this region right now – but I’ve also dealt with all other areas of the market, from retail to offices.

“The market is holding up well and there has certainly been more positive economic news in recent weeks, which will be reflected when it comes to property enquiries.

“I have been in the industry for more than a decade and this is an exciting new chapter for me.”

Nick Holt, director of Holt Commercial, said: “We are delighted to have Ed on board. Having someone with his knowledge, experience and enthusiasm joining us here at Holt Commercial will serve the business well.”