People: Property team expands at law firm; College announces new CEO; and more

A Yorkshire legal firm has expanded its property team with three new appointments as a direct result of increased business throughout the division.

Licensed conveyancer Cathryn Ford, solicitor Jamie Humpheson and paralegal Lauren Ives join LCF Law’s specialist commercial property division, which operates across offices in Leeds, Bradford, Harrogate and Ilkley.

Ford, from Wakefield, joins from Gordons. Having worked in the legal industry for 14 years, she brings a wealth of experience to her role after overseeing commercial transactions, lease renewals and assignments, licenses for alterations and plot sales. She will be based in LCF Law’s Leeds office.

Humpheson, who is from Harrogate, joins from Emsleys. His commercial property experience includes advising SMEs, landlords and tenants, land and property developers, franchisees and private clients. Responsible for drafting and negotiating leases and agreements, as well as dealing with the sale and leasing of property, alongside advising on the right to manage, auction sales and easements.He will be based in the Bradford office of LCF Law.

Lauren Ives, who is from Derbyshire, recently completed her legal qualifications at the University of Law in Leeds having graduated from the University of Kent with a first class LLB (Hons) in 2017. Based in the Bradford office, Ives will assist the team of 10 property experts.

Head of LCF Law’s commercial property department, Paul Anderson, said: “Last year we expanded our department and this raft of new appointments reflects our continued growth and success in the commercial property market.  We listen to our clients, agree the right course of action and deliver our legal services within a set timescale and budget, and this straightforward approach has seen us win several key clients over the last quarter.

“Jamie, Cathryn and Lauren all have a specific set of skills that will help us to continue exceeding our client’s expectations. All three will be involved with managing commercial property portfolios, advising developers on potential residential and commercial projects, assisting charities and pension funds with property estates or investments, and advising commercial leaseholders and tenants.”

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Bradford College has announced Chris Webb as its new Chief Executive Officer to spearhead the college’s development and continue its progress to financial recovery.

Webb will join Bradford College from Barnsley College, rated Outstanding, where he is currently CEO and Principal.

He has been in his current role since September 2015, and has more than 20 years’ experience in the education sector, having also spent time as Deputy Principal at South Thames College and Director of School at Newcastle College.

He will succeed current interim CEO, Chris Malish, who has been filling the role since Chris Jones, unfortunately, stepped down in August for health reasons.

Cath Orange, Chair of Governors, said: “Chris has a wealth of experience and expertise to offer and the Corporation is delighted to have secured the appointment of a successful leader who is held in high regard within the sector.

“We couldn’t be happier that he is coming to lead Bradford College at a crucial time as we continue on our journey to financial recovery. He will be key to helping us achieve our aim of becoming a financially sustainable college that provides an excellent student experience and delivers outstanding outcomes for learners that benefit the local economy and community.

“Thanks to the significant work led by Chris Jones and Chris Malish the College is making good progress with its Strategic Recovery Plan. Chris Webb is the ideal person to continue our move in the right direction.”

Chris Malish, who will resume his position as Director of Finance and Corporate Services upon Webb’s arrival in Spring, said: “I am very much looking forward to working alongside Chris who has extensive experience and an in-depth understanding of the sector and the unique challenges and opportunities at Bradford College.”

Webb said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to take on the challenge of driving Bradford College’s development and making sure it meets the needs of students, staff, stakeholders, business and the regional and national economy.

“The role presented such an exciting opportunity that I just couldn’t turn it down, however, the decision to leave Barnsley College wasn’t an easy one. I’ve been incredibly lucky to work at Barnsley College for the past eight years and it has been a great honour for me to lead such a fantastic organisation for the last three. I will certainly miss everyone at the College.

“I am now looking forward to getting to know the talented and dedicated staff at Bradford College and building on the momentum created by Chris Jones and Chris Malish.”

Graduating from Canterbury Christ Church College University with a degree in IT and Sport Science, Webb began teaching in 1997 and has worked within the further education sector since then.

He joined Barnsley College in March 2011 as Vice Principal for Quality and Development and two years later became Deputy Principal Finance and Development before taking the Principal and CEO role three years ago.