People: Series of senior promotions at DWF; Associate joins Clarion’s private client team; and more

DWF has made four senior promotions across its Leeds-based commercial and insurance teams.

Promotions from senior solicitor to associate are Nick Wallace in real estate and Carrie Pearson in insurance fraud, and senior paralegal Ryan Jurgelis-Hinnells has been promoted to manager, the firm’s associate-equivalent.

Real estate partner Jim Speed has also been promoted within the partnership.

Nic Crocker, executive partner of DWF in Leeds, said: “Each of these individuals has been instrumental in driving DWF in Leeds forward, not only in terms of their particular legal expertise but also the quality of service they deliver to our clients and positive impact they have on their colleagues.

“All of those promoted this year exemplify our values and are very much the future of DWF, so I’m pleased that we can recognise and reward their commitment to us and look forward to supporting each of them in the next phase of their careers.”

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DUNCAN WATSON has joined Clarion as an associate solicitor in its growing private client team.

Mr Watson joins Clarion in Leeds having spent the last two years with a national firm and has specific experience dealing with complex estates, tax efficient wills, and trusts.  

He is an affiliate member of STEP (the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners) – a specialist group of solicitors, barristers, tax advisers, and mental capacity experts.

With his expertise in mental capacity work, he further strengthens the Clarion private client team’s reputation as advisers to families where someone may lack capacity, and as court appointed deputies managing a person’s affairs.

As well as his legal expertise, Mr Watson studied chemistry at the University of Leeds and worked in the pharmaceutical industry for several years before pursuing a career in law.  He obtained a master’s degree in law at the University of Sheffield before qualifying as a solicitor in London.

Viv Wild, partner and head of Clarion’s private client practice, said: “We increasingly find that the firm’s clients come to us wanting advice that brings together their business and personal wealth.  With the increasing demand for our integrated services we need to continue to grow the team and, with his specialist knowledge, Duncan will be a valuable addition to what is an excellent team.”

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THE four-star Leeds Marriott Hotel has welcomed a new executive chef.

Philip Veal has worked in Michelin star restaurants and honed his skills in a variety of establishments across the country, as well as cooking alongside MasterChef star Raymond Blanc.

Mr Veal said: “Leeds Marriott Hotel is the perfect place for me to showcase my skills and use my industry knowledge to deliver the best possible banqueting and dining experience for our guests. It’s a fantastic city with plenty to offer and I look forward to getting stuck in.”