Ellis Jones names new managing partner

South Coast law firm Ellis Jones Solicitors has promoted Lauren Day to managing partner as part of a senior leadership transition.

Lauren succeeds Nigel Smith, who steps down after 27 years in the role and becomes senior partner. 

A partner since 2013 and equity partner since 2017, Lauren has led the firm's dispute resolution team while playing a key role in its strategic development and expansion into new legal services.

Recognised by The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners, she specialises in contentious trust and probate claims and advising property developers.

Lauren said: “I feel extremely privileged to have had the opportunity to develop my career at Ellis Jones. 

“As a firm we actively encourage people to progress, creating an environment where entrepreneurialism is encouraged and support and mutual trust are ever present.  

“As a result, I and many others have dedicated their careers to the firm, indeed many of my fellow Partners trained here and have followed a similar journey to mine. 

“As managing partner, I look forward to playing an even greater part in helping the firm and our clients succeed. 

“The legal sector is currently experiencing a great deal of change and uncertainty, but I am confident that by staying true to our culture and values and bringing personality to our work we will continue to succeed.  

“I pay tribute to Nigel for helping to steer us to our present size and status after many years. Everyone at Ellis Jones owes him an immense debt of gratitude.” 

The leadership changes mark a new chapter for Ellis Jones as the firm continues to build on its growth and strengthen its legal offering across the South.

Nigel added: “Congratulations to Lauren on her thoroughly deserved promotion. 

“She is a renowned lawyer, consistently praised for her skills and expertise not only by her colleagues and clients but by her peers and independent legal industry commentators. 

“At Ellis Jones, her work in growing our Dispute Resolution team to be regionally recognised and in helping to form and drive the strategy of the firm generally has been significant.

“Lauren is particularly a driving force in our partnerships with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, the Swanage Railway Trust and the BOWRA Foundation, a charity that does phenomenal work supporting people who have suffered brain injuries and are looking to recover through practical help and physical challenges. 

“Lauren has been, and continues to be, an inspirational figure for women within the legal industry, both locally and further afield. 

“Since becoming a partner, she has been the trailblazer for the exponential growth in the number of female members in our team. 

“Of our current roll of more than 180 members of staff, around 72 per cent are women. 

“Among our 23 partners, nine are female.”  

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