Member Article

Interview: Jo Ormston partner and practice manager at Pearson Solicitors

Having shown steady growth throughout the economic downturn, Pearson Solicitors has successfully kept its turnover above the £3m mark for the third successive year.

The Oldham-based firm, which employs 53 people, has seen turnover increase by 20% since 2009 with staff numbers up by 13% over the same period.

This growth has led to the opening of new offices in Ashton, offering high quality commercial legal services for Tameside and Glossop businesses.

Jo Ormston, partner and practice manager at Pearson Solicitors spoke to Bdaily about how its established base in Oldham has facilitated its continuing growth.

Jo said: “Understanding the needs of the clients we service. We’ve been in Oldham for hundreds of years and this experience means we know what our clients are looking for and the type of people they want to deal with.

“We have a fresh approach that makes us stand-out against traditional high street firms. “Our branding encapsulates our values; we are modern and forward-thinking yet also offer traditional expertise.

“Having non-lawyer partners gives us a rounded perspective and this winning mix of heritage sharpened by a contemporary approach has helped to attract top fee earners from city firms.”

Staying strong through the recession is a point of pride for Jo, but it has not been the only challenge Pearson has faced during recent years. Jo commented: From Government changes to the personal injury sector and slashed fees, firms always need to be quick-footed and ready to manoeuvre to stay ahead.

“Due to external factors, employment has been hit recently, which can be an issue when you are growing rapidly.

“Of course, challenges also present opportunities - clinical negligence is big growth area and issues surrounding auto-enrolment and shared parental leave will also bring in new business.”

For Jo, Pearson has a unique way of doing things. She said: “We are all about partner-led with a personal service. I think Sir Alex Ferguson’s example of leadership, which is traditional in style with a dedication to bringing through talented young people, chimes with our approach to building a winning team.

“I’d like our clients to come away with the feeling that they have dealt with a human being with a down-to-earth approach, that they aren’t just another number.

“Some people can be intimidated by legal jargon and formality; our clients appreciate the fact that we use plain English and offer a friendly, knowledgeable service.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sophia Taha .