Law firm announces new head of Leeds office

Law firm Gateley has announced the new head of its Leeds office.

Commercial dispute resolution partner Andrew Johnson takes over from restructuring partner William Ballmann, who is reducing his commitments ahead of retirement in 2020.

Johnson is a partner in the CDR team with more than 15 years’ experience in handling commercial disputes, particularly dealing with issues arising out of corporate transactions, complex projects, trading contracts and property related agreements.

Ballmann established the Leeds office in January 2012 with just five members of staff plus a trainee.

The office now employs 96 staff at its Minerva House location in the heart of the city.

Ballmann said: “I am very proud to have been at the helm of Gateley in Leeds since our launch in 2012 and overseeing our ambitious growth. From starting out with just five people plus a trainee six years ago, we now provide a full-service offering to the Yorkshire region and beyond. I’m delighted to be handing over to Andrew who has played a key role in our growth in recent years.”

Johnson added: “I am very proud and excited to be taking on this new role as head of the Leeds office. Taking over from William is a great honour as he’s done a truly fantastic job at building our team here. He has made a huge contribution to the rapid expansion that we’ve experienced whilst maintaining a great atmosphere and spirit amongst the team.

“Thanks to his collaborative leadership, our Leeds office is now positioned to advise clients on the growing opportunities in Yorkshire and beyond, and I am very much looking forward to further developing the office and building on the success that we’ve seen these past six years.”

Ballmann will remain in the business for another two years and remains on the council of R3, The Association of Business Recovery Professionals.

He is also the head of the North Region for the Institute for Turnaround.