Chester-headquartered Aaron & Partners has introduced a new executive structure as part of a wider restructuring of its leadership, designed to support the next phase of its expansion.
Nick Clarke has been named chief executive officer, while Helen Watson, currently head of employment, has been appointed senior partner.
Mr Clarke said: “I’m incredibly proud of our team and the work they deliver day in, day out for our clients.
“This new structure reflects the scale we’ve reached as a firm and gives us a solid foundation to build on for the next phase of our growth.
“For me, my new role is about creating the right environment and culture for talented people to thrive.
“I believe that good people doing good work for good clients is a simple recipe for success, and my focus is on maintaining the high standards our reputation has been built on while ensuring we continue to be an attractive place for people to build long-term careers.”
Ms Watson will continue to lead the firm’s employment and immigration team across its four offices.
She said: “I’m delighted to have the support and backing of my partners as we look to take our firm to the next level.
“For me this role is all about relationship building, internal and external collaboration and with my growing international role and long-standing network of contacts, clients and referrers my aim is to enable us to achieve ambitions.
“I was the firm’s first female equity partner in 2007 and so it’s an exciting opportunity to be the first female senior partner at a time of real growth potential.
“My focus will primarily be on strategic opportunity, international relations, internal and external collaboration whilst also supporting Nick in his new role as CEO and the firm’s leadership team.
“As senior partner I hope my reputation as an ambassador for the firm already precedes me.”
Ms Watson is a chartered director and holds several board roles, including vice chair of the International Advisory Group, chair of Theatr Clwyd, honorary ambassador of Claire House children’s hospice, and IoD North Wales board member.
Aaron & Partners recently exceeded 200 employees for the first time, marking a period of rapid growth.
Emma McGlinchey has been appointed head of business services.
She will be responsible for driving growth across the firm’s commercial teams and will continue in her role as head of real estate.
Clive Pointon has become head of private client services, overseeing the wills, trusts and tax, and family teams.