Based in Liverpool, Exchange Chambers has won a top award after its team rose to the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic

Liverpool’s Exchange Chambers has been named as Regional Set of the Year at the Chambers UK Bar Awards 2021.

The awards reflect achievements over the past 12 months including outstanding work, impressive strategic growth and excellence in client service. They honour the work of Chambers across the country based on the research for the recent edition of Chambers UK Bar.

“Over the past 20 months or so our members, clerks and staff have risen to the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Jonathan I’Anson, chief executive at Exchange Chambers. “It has been an outstanding effort across the board.

“This award is down to the hard work and commitment of every one of our 52 staff and 197 members. They have all been magnificent over the past year or so and it is great to see that recognised.”

Mr I’Anson took over as Exchange Chambers’ chief executive just as the pandemic took hold in early 2020.  Talking about Exchange’s strategy during the pandemic, he explained:

He added: “From the very beginning we were determined to stay on the front foot in terms of growth, recruitment, client service and business development. That has paid dividends and we are now stronger than ever and enjoying significant fee growth compared to pre-pandemic.”

Exchange Chambers secured its highest ever rankings in Chambers UK Bar 2022. Described as a “go-to set with lots of depth” and “exceptional clerking”, the Northern Powerhouse Set secured more than 100 departmental and individual rankings across the Northern and North Eastern Circuits.

“I’d also particularly like to thank all our solicitor clients who have shared their feedback with the Chambers UK researchers and judges,” added Mr I’Anson. “Their ongoing support has made this award possible.”