People: Birmingham Law Society; Sydney Mitchell; Aon

At its Annual General Meeting held yesterday (September 26), the Birmingham Law Society chose Richard Port MBE of George Green LLP as its President for 2024/5.
Port takes over from Alice Kinder and is an advocate for victims of domestic abuse.
With a presidential campaign theme of “Voices,” Port emphasised at the AGM that his focus will be on empowering those who often lack a platform, both within the community and among Society members.
He aims to highlight the work of individuals who might otherwise remain under the radar, ensuring their voices are heard, acknowledged, and celebrated.
He said: “I would like to say thank you to Alice for all the hard work that she has put in over the last twelve months. It has been her clear passion and commitment to society, and I am looking forward to building on her foundations.”
West Midlands law firm Sydney Mitchell, has appointed Angela Howard as its new marketing manager.
Angela Howard
A marketing, brand and communications specialist, Howard brings with her expertise in project management and delivery of successful marketing campaigns.
She joins Sydney Mitchell from a Warwickshire-based law firm where she gained extensive experience in traditional and digital marketing strategies, PR, partnerships and sponsorships, CRM marketing and event planning.
Karen Moores, senior partner: “We are delighted that Angela has joined us. Her enthusiasm, creativity and knowledge of the legal sector make her a very welcome addition to the team”.
Howard said: “Sydney Michell has an impressive heritage and reputation. I am excited to join the firm to help shape the marketing and communications strategy for the future”.
Global professional services firm, Aon, has welcomed its latest cohort of talent to its office in Birmingham with the arrival of two placement year students and seven recent graduates.
The new team members will work across a range of areas, including investment consulting, data solutions, actuarial consulting and client management.
Aon’s placement year students, currently in their third year of university, will gain real-world experience before returning to complete their degrees.
The firm’s graduate programme, called ‘Launch,’ is focused on cultivating high achievers and preparing them for future leadership roles, ensuring a smooth transition into full-time positions.
Michelle Woodfield, associate partner and investment lead, said: “Aon recognises the value in offering varied pathways for young professionals to gain experience in a professional working environment and develop key skills.
“Our new graduates and placement students have brought with them energy and eagerness, which has been fantastic to see. They have fully embraced the opportunities to learn and acquire new skills and have our full support to grow their careers with Aon.”
Milan Patel, one of the newest members of Aon’s Birmingham office, said: “As an Economics graduate from the University of Birmingham, I was keen to pursue a role which catered to my academic interests. Having previously completed a summer internship at Aon, I was able to witness first-hand the warm working environment and vast expertise that exist across the business.
“Already I feel very much at home here and that’s undoubtedly in part thanks to the warm welcome we’ve all received and the willingness of the team to support our development. I am delighted to rejoin the team and look forward to getting stuck in and developing my career further over the coming years!”