Walker Foster board of directors (l-r) Katie Ingham, Maxine Heppenstall, Ian Haynes, Jayne Schofield, Craig Williams, Sara Rutter.jpg — Pictured, from left to right, are Walker Foster's board of directors Katie Ingham, Maxine Heppenstall, Ian Haynes, Jayne Schofield, Craig Williams and Sara Rutter

Law firm looks to future after management buyout

A law firm is eyeing fresh growth following a management buyout.

Maxine Heppenstall and Ian Haynes have taken over at Walker Foster.

The duo say the move marks “an important step in the established and respected firm’s progression and growth (which will) ensure continuity, fresh perspectives and strong leadership”.

The deal follows the retirement of Stuart Rowland and Keith Hardington from the Yorkshire-based business, which employs 80 staff across offices in Barnoldswick, Harrogate, Ilkley, Northallerton, Silsden, Settle and Skipton.

Under the terms of the management buyout, Maxine has retained her role as managing director, with Ian remaining head of residential conveyancing.

Executive director Craig Williams has become head of corporate and commercial, with Jayne Schofield assuming the roles of executive director and director of operations.

Head of private client Katie Ingham and head of family Sara Rutter have become directors.

Maxine said: “With Keith and Stuart taking retirement, Ian and I decided that, alongside the management buyout, it was the perfect time to restructure the senior team.”

The deal was supported by commercial law firm Schofield Sweeney.

Partner Michael Cantwell from the Bradford, Huddersfield and Leeds-based operator’s corporate team advised Walker Foster alongside Lucy Holroyd and Andrada Frates.

He added: “We have worked alongside Walker Foster for a number of years.

“We were delighted to support Maxine and Ian in ensuring a smooth exit for the retiring equity partners and taking this well-regarded business into its next chapter.”

Walker Foster received valuation and tax support from AAB’s Joel Topham and Alistair Walshaw, with NatWest’s Parvez Kamal providing funding support.

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