Walker Morris appoints new managing partner

Walker Morris has announced that Jeanette Burgess will be the firm’s new managing partner with effect from 1 May 2024.

Burgess will succeed Malcolm Simpson, who is retiring from the firm at the end of his six-year tenure as managing partner.

Burgess has served on the Walker Morris board since 2015 as well as leading the regulatory team, which she set up on joining the firm in 2006. Her focus will be delivery of the firm’s new 3-year growth strategy via the recruitment and nurturing of talent at all levels and supporting investment in innovation.

She is also committed to continuing her work in driving diversity and inclusion within the firm. In November, she was recognised in the O Shaped Lawyer’s inaugural ‘O List’, which celebrates those that have gone above and beyond to help create a world where People First really matters.

Simpson said, “I’d like to congratulate Jeanette on her appointment as managing partner. I’ve seen the firm change immeasurably during my time here, maintaining a human touch whilst growing and becoming more successful. I’m confident that the firm is in great shape for continued success, and I know Jeanette will inspire everyone to help deliver the firm’s exciting plans for the next three years.”

Burgess added: “Many thanks to Malcolm for his significant contribution in leading the firm to unprecedented success in the last six years and ensuring we are in great shape to meet future challenges. I’m looking forward to working with our fantastic people to build on the excellent platform we have created and deliver our ambitious plans for the future.”

The firm has grown year-on-year under Simpson’s leadership, with 53% growth in turnover and a doubling of profits in the past 5 years. During that time the firm moved to a new 70,000 sq ft headquarters in Leeds and has made transformational investments in its people, systems and technology.

The firm has embedded a strong culture and an award-winning sustainable careers offering, giving its people not only a great place to work, but access to high-calibre work and the opportunity to shape their career development.

The firm’s growth has focused on the manufacturing, built environment, and financial services sectors with enhanced capability in a number of additional practice areas to service the firm’s national and international corporate clients.