Gateley appoints former Eversheds partner for ‘strategic guidance’

GATELEY has appointed former Eversheds corporate partner Mike Seabrook as a new non-executive director.

The appointment demonstrates Gateley’s ambitions to become a major law firm both in Birmingham and beyond.

Mr Seabrook has recently retired from Eversheds after a career last more than 20 years, 13 of which were spent on the board of the firm.

During his time with Eversheds, the firm expanded from one office based in Birmingham to an international practice with 45 offices and turnover of £355m.

Gateley said his appointment was to provide strategic guidance as the firm entered a new phase in its development and looked to build on its entry into the list of the UK’s top 50 national law firms.

Commenting on Mr Seabrook’s appointment, Gateley’s senior partner, Michael Ward said:  “This is an important time for the firm as we reach the next stage in our development.  It’s been a busy 18 months but like most we have been navigating our way through tough market conditions.  

“However, we have remained positive, maintained our teams and have maximised opportunities for growth, such as our entrance into the Manchester market last year.

“As we continue to grow and build on our top 50 status we have ambitious plans and it’s vital that we meet the strategic challenges we will face as we develop as a business.  We know our people are our best asset and we have always invested in high calibre recruits to ensure we can drive the business forward.  Mike has an excellent track record and is well regarded within the market, we are looking forward to working with him and I’m sure we will benefit from the extensive experience he will bring in this advisory role.”

Mr Seabrook added:  “It’s an exciting time to join Gateley and at such a pivotal stage in its development.  I’m keen to set myself some new challenges at this stage in my career and over the years I have been impressed by the firm’s determination to get to the position they are in today, as a national law firm.  

“It is clear they haven’t compromised when it comes to offering commercially focused, solutions-driven advice that meets the needs of their clients and is built around an in-depth understanding of each of the local markets in which they operate.  The firm has a strong platform on which to build and it’s a great opportunity to be involved in this next phase of its growth.”

Prior to joining Eversheds, Mr Seabrook was a corporate partner at Needham & James and has previously held roles with Clifford Turner and Lovells.