A total of 14 new partners are created by Liverpool law firm Hill Dickinson as part of its ‘accelerated partner promotions’

Liverpool law firm Hill Dickinson Hill Dickinson has created 14 new partners in the UK and overseas as part of its accelerated partner promotion scheme.

Of the 14 legal directors across four of the firm’s 10 UK and international offices elevated to partner status, three are based in Liverpool. They join the ranks of the firm’s existing partners, boosting overall partner numbers to more than 150.

Hill Dickinson introduced its accelerated partner promotions scheme in the summer of 2022. It was a deliberate shift away from the more traditional view that partnership can normally only be attained after at least 15 years of post-qualification experience.

Instead, the scheme identifies lawyers currently working as legal directors whose career trajectory and understanding of their chosen area of law is considered “exceptional”.

Hill Dickinson chief executive, Peter Jackson, said: “As in any sphere of work, there are people who rise to the top very quickly.

“In a legal world that is hungry to attract and retain top talent, it is vital that we recognise and reward our potential future leading partners. Our scheme is designed to achieve that.”

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This scheme is part of Hill Dickinson’s wider aim to create a more diverse workforce and promote more inclusive ways of working. It is opening up access via apprenticeships for new entrants at the start of their careers. And it is rewarding talent higher up the chain.

Lawyers invited to become partners via the scheme will be supported with an ongoing programme of practical support and mentorship.

Mr Jackson added: “Working practices have changed and it is imperative that we review and innovate to keep pace with that.”

The new partners are:

• Liverpool – Elan Iorwerth (corporate), Helen Penfold (corporate), Kate Steele (commercial litigation).
• Manchester – James Down (corporate), Sean Lightfoot (corporate), Helen Evans (property), Richard Allingham (cargo & logistics).
• London – Jack Delaney (corporate commercial), Sam Hudson (corporate commercial), Francois De Lange (corporate commercial), Rosie Gonacre (shipping). John McNeilly (commodities), Tom Turner (cargo & logistics).
• Piraeus – Alexander Freeman (shipping).