This week’s North West appointments

Simon Maddox, Slater Heelis

North West law firm Slater Heelis LLP has a new partner in its commercial property team.

Simon Maddox formerly worked as a senior associate at Gateley PLC, where he undertook all aspects of commercial property work and specialised in retail.

Following his appointment, Simon will work across various property disciplines, including landlord and tenant, investment and property finance, from Slater Heelis’ Manchester city centre office.

Slater Heelis’ head of the commercial property, Will Henson, said: “We are delighted to welcome Simon on board as we continue to expand our team after a very successful year in 2016.

“Simon has a wealth of experience working with a range of businesses from corporates to SME’s. His expertise will enhance the high-quality service we provide to all of our clients.”

Commenting on his appointment, Simon said: “I’m looking forward to joining a strong, dynamic team with ambitions to grow, and hope to play an integral part in helping to achieve this.”

Nicola Whittle, Brabners

Commercial law firm Brabners has added to its corporate practice with the appointment of senior associate Nicola Whittle.

Nicola, who will be based in Preston, has joined Brabners from Stephensons Solicitors and specialises in corporate, restructuring and insolvency work.

She commented: “Brabners’ corporate practice is not only one of the most active in the North West, it is highly-regarded by clients and continues to act for a range of ambitious businesses right across the UK.

“This provides a strong platform for future growth and I’m looking forward to working with the team as we develop this. Building a stronger presence in Preston will enable us to support a wider range of businesses in the area, as well as better serving our existing clients.”

Brabners corporate partner David Bowcock commented: “We have always worked with businesses in Lancashire and Nicola’s appointment gives our team an on-the-ground presence that will benefit many clients.

“Her experience of providing the full spectrum of corporate advice also ensures she will play an integral role in the future of our practice. This hire is a clear statement of intent when it comes to our commitment to the region.”

Darren Deans, dock10

Media services firm dock10 has appointed Darren Deans as its new head of marketing.

With over 25 years of experience in the broadcast industry, Darren has held key marketing roles at Babcock Media Services, Kingston Inmedia, WRN Broadcast, Arqiva and a number of other companies.

Darren said: “I am proud to be joining dock10 at such an important time in the development of its studios, post production and managed services businesses.

“I am looking forward to working in such a talented team and to supporting the continued success of the company.”

dock10 CEO Mark Senior commented: “Darren brings to dock10 a wealth of experience in international marketing communications and a reputation for innovative thinking.

“This is an important appointment as it comes at a crucial stage of dock10’s expansion. We are all looking forward to welcoming Darren as an integral member of our senior team.”

Rachel Buckley, Birchall Blackburn Law

Birchall Blackburn Law has announced a promotion at its Manchester office.

Rachel Buckley, who first joined the firm as a legal assistant in 1997, has been promoted from residential property manager to partner.

In her time with Birchall Blackburn, Rachel has built up experience in property and litigation. Today, she is responsible for the company’s Kennedy Street-based conveyancing teams, as well as its equity release service across all offices.

Rachel said: “I’m both thrilled and proud to have become partner. I’ve worked at Birchall Blackburn Law for almost 20 years and it’s great to be recognised in this way.

“In this time, I’ve worked closely with our teams to make sure we deliver the best service possible for our clients and continually strive for excellence.”

She added: “I’ve seen many changes over the years and I’ve watched the firm grow and I know it has an exciting future which I’m looking forward to playing a pivotal role in.”

Senior partner Michael Foxford commented: “Rachel’s hard word and diligence over the years has made her a highly-valued member of the Birchall Blackburn Law family, and one who embodies the firm’s core values.

“This appointment is part of the firm’s ongoing strategic plan for growth and development.”

He continued: “When people choose to come and work for Birchall Blackburn Law they aren’t just choosing a job, they’re choosing a career and we are able to provide big opportunities for progression and investment into training and development to make sure our people get the most from their career.”

Richard Webster, LDeX

Data centre company LDeX Group has appointed Richard Webster as group commercial director.

Bringing 20 years of experience to the role, Richard has previously held senior sales positions at BT, Telecity Group PLC and elsewhere. Most recently, he worked for global colocation provider Equinix.

At LDeX, Richard will lead the firm’s sales team and build on its recent successes in securing new contracts.

He said: “LDeX has experienced impressive growth over the last few years and established itself as a major player in the market.

“I am looking forward to developing existing customer relationships, both in the UK and beyond, and relishing the task of building the company’s client portfolio.”

LDeX CEO Rob Garbutt commented: “Not only has Richard demonstrated clear dedication and ambition throughout his career, he also shares our values for quality and customer service.

“With Richard’s impressive track record and sound industry knowledge, I am confident that he has the tools to help us deliver on our plans for further expansion.”

Marco Peretti, Avecto

Security software company Avecto has taken on Marco Peretti as CTO.

Marco’s experience in the security industry, spanning more than 15 years, includes founding a number of businesses.

One venture, SecureWave, saw him pioneer some of the first application and device control solutions.

With Avecto, Marco will oversee and drive the company’s Manchester-based development teams.

He will also work alongside its co-founders to help execute the company’s vision to become the world’s leading endpoint security software provider.

Marco said: “Throughout my career I have seen Paul and Mark continue to innovate and stamp their mark on what is a fiercely competitive sector.

“Avecto has a unique offering in the Defendpoint product, which is reflected by its remarkable commercial success.”

Avecto’s CEO and co-founder, Mark Austin, commented: “Marco is a pioneer when it comes to next-generation security technology.

“He is the full package – he has the technical skills to innovate, the ambition to succeed and the drive to make things happen.”

He added: “I am extremely pleased that Marco will be joining our team; this is a very significant hire for Avecto.”

Clare Gammond, Stephensons

National law firm Stephensons has announced the appointment of solicitor Clare Gammond to its Wigan-based industrial disease department.

Clare has previously worked on cases of serious industrial diseases, having qualified as a solicitor over 10 years ago.

Prior to her appointment Clare worked on complex and high value claims for BLM, including a fully litigated caseload of noise-induced hearing loss and hand arm vibration syndrome claims.

Clare said: “I have always been aware of the firm and its stellar reputation for quality legal advice. I am interested in the range and complexity of cases on offer and am delighted to have been presented with the opportunity to join Stephensons.”

Kate Sweeney, head of personal injury at Stephensons, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Clare to our growing team. Industrial and occupational disease is a growing issue throughout the UK and many cases can be complex and detailed.

“We have been expanding our expertise in this area for a decade now and Clare will join an already experienced team.”

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