People: Brabners; Navigation Wealth Management; and more

Independent law firm Brabners has appointed a new partner in its commercial law practice in Leeds to support growing demand for its Intellectual Property (IP) specialism in Yorkshire.

Sara Ludlam brings 25 years’ experience, having worked with leading brands including Lacoste, Berghaus, Kickers and Sports Direct, and advises on all areas of IP including trade mark, patent and design right registrations and IP litigation.

She also advises on a full range of commercial agreements and GDPR compliance.

Ludlam joins Brabners’ 85-strong partnership from 3volution in Leeds. She previously ran her own independent specialist practice, having trained in the specialist IP boutique firm, Llewelyn Zietman in London.

Her arrival marks the ninth partner appointment at Brabners’ Leeds office since its launch in May last year, and the firm expects to continue to expand its team in Yorkshire throughout 2023.

Ludlam said: “Brabners has an excellent reputation in the profession as a top employer with a major commercial practice.

“Joining the firm is an exciting opportunity for me to help enhance its existing services in IP law, by further strengthening the team.

Nik White, managing partner, added: “There’s great strategic value in further strengthening our commercial and IP services, with specialist support frequently needed by the hundreds of businesses we represent across the UK.

“Sara’s unrivalled expertise and entrepreneurialism will help add to our niche expertise, while enabling us to start new conversations with clients on how we can help protect their intellectual assets.”

:::

Navigation Wealth Management has appointed a new financial adviser.

Stephen Luwero has over 20 years’ experience in the financial services industry, with particular expertise in investment banking, investment consulting and wealth management both in London and the North of England.

He joins the Yorkshire-based firm from investment management company Charles Stanley, where he was client relationship manager and business development manager for the Beverley area.

Matt Hammond, chief Executive at Navigation Wealth, which has offices in Beverley and Wakefield, said: “Stephen is an exceptional addition to the Navigation team.

“He has the ability to explain complex subjects in simple terms because of his in-depth understanding of markets, financial products and services.

“This knowledge and expertise will be invaluable to our clients as we continue to expand our operations across the UK.”

Luwero, who once played football alongside former England midfielder and manager Glenn Hoddle when he was an apprentice at Swindon Town FC in the early 1990s, said: “Ensuring my advice achieves the goals and aspirations of my clients is always my focus.

“It’s so important to get to know them, understand their needs and to develop long-lasting relationships with them so that we can advise at all life stages.

“That’s why I am so thrilled to be joining Navigation Wealth. Their decisions are made with the welfare of their clients and team, front and centre,at all times.

“I’m looking forward to meeting new clients as well as continuing to look after the investments of previous clients.”

:::

Sheffield-based sustainable recycling solutions company, Russell Richardson & Sons Ltd, has appointed Kerrie Wilson as its new business development manager.

She joins the company with a focus on breaking into new customers and markets, with particular emphasis on the firm’s cardboard recycling services.

She said: “I already have over three years of experience in the waste industry before my appointment at Russell Richardson.

“I began my journey as a customer services representative, before working up to other business development manager roles for other companies.

“Prior to that I’ve worked in customer service based roles which mean I am able to bring a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of all sides of the business to my new position.”

Lyndsay Stewart, director, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Kerrie to our team. Her background in customer service, coupled with her extensive experience in the waste industry, make her a valuable asset to our company.

“We are confident Kerrie’s focus on cardboard recycling and her drive to break into new markets will lead to great success for Russell Richardson.”

“Her hardworking nature and determination to succeed make her an ideal addition to the team.”

Wilson will be responsible for identifying new business opportunities and developing relationships with key customers.

She will also be working to promote the business’s sustainable waste management solutions, in particular its cardboard recycling services, to expand its presence in the industry.