At Coole Bevis, International Women’s Day is an opportunity to reflect on the strength, leadership and talent of the women who help shape our firm every day.
Representation matters, and at Coole Bevis, it is something we are proud to demonstrate. Of our 18 Partners, 9 are women. Across our 8 legal service departments, 5 are led by women. When including Accounts, HR, Marketing and IT, 8 of our 12 departments are headed up by women.
These numbers are important, but the stories behind them matter even more.
Leadership and Legal Excellence
Our female leaders and LLP members are driving excellence across the firm.
Solicitors such as Carol Blakey, Julia Dyson, and Nicola Hunt are recognised for their expertise, dedication and unwavering commitment to client care.
For example, Julia recently led Coole Bevis to a significant financial remedy victory in collaboration with Westgate Chambers, securing a positive outcome in a complex matrimonial finance case and further underlining her expertise in family law.
We are also proud that Sue Knight and Kelly Mills have been recognised by Chambers and Partners as Senior Statesperson in family law and Band 5 in litigation respectively, reflecting the high calibre of legal talent within the firm.
Kelly’s contribution goes beyond her client work. She plays a pivotal role in training and mentoring emerging lawyers, championing the next generation of talent – work that has even been featured on Latest TV.
Supporting the Next Generation
Investment in people is central to our culture.
Lauren Waller’s recent appointment as President of the Sussex Junior Lawyers Division reflects our commitment to supporting individuals who actively contribute to the wider legal community.
Protecting Vulnerable Clients
Similarly, Jenny Murphy’s reappointment as Panel Deputy by the Office of Public Guardian highlights her expertise and the trust placed in her professional judgment.
Strength Beyond the Office
The women of Coole Bevis are not only leaders within the firm but active contributors beyond it.
Tanya Auld’s involvement in Women in Property demonstrates her commitment to championing female representation across the built environment sector.
Emily Wardrope’s participation in HYROX competitions showcases the resilience, determination and drive that so many of our colleagues embody, qualities that translate into their professional lives.
Breaking Barriers and Wearing Many Hats
We are particularly proud of stories that demonstrate genuine progress within the profession.
Teresa Pender-Stratford’s promotion to Partner while on maternity leave is a powerful example of how talent and leadership are recognised and supported at every stage of life.
Louisa Anderson, Head of Department, non-solicitor LLP member and self-confessed ‘wearer of multiple hats’, plays a key leadership role within the firm and sits on our Executive Committee.
Alongside her, Georgina Holton, HR Director and member of the Executive Committee, is renowned for her inclusive approach to talent. Her strategic focus on nurturing careers and creating opportunity continues to shape the future of Coole Bevis.
More Than a Statistic
International Women’s Day is not simply about celebrating numbers. It is about recognising influence, leadership, resilience and the daily contributions that collectively strengthen our firm and our community.
To all the women of Coole Bevis, thank you for the expertise, integrity and inspiration you bring to the profession.
For more information regarding Coole Bevis, and our legal insights, get in touch.
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