By: 8 June 2026
Clarion recognises Leeds legal talent with 17 promotions

National law firm, Clarion continues to recognise and reward colleagues, promoting 17 team members across the business.

Simon Rhodes has been promoted to Partner in the Real Estate team. Known for his commercial approach and strong client relationships, Simon has built a growing client portfolio and established himself as a trusted adviser in the Leeds market. Alongside his client work, he plays an active role in mentoring junior colleagues and supporting the continued growth of the team and wider firm.

Kerri-Anne Ball, Georgia Samardzija, Lisa Smith, Nicholas Choiniere, Stephanie Jameson and Kate Fernyhough have all become Legal Directors across Private Wealth, Business Restructuring and Insolvency, Contentious Private Client, Commercial Dispute Resolution and Real Estate, respectively.

Kerri-Anne’s technical expertise and leadership within Private Wealth have seen her develop a successful specialist workstream supporting families with vulnerable and neurodivergent family members. Georgia’s strong reputation for advising high-net-worth individuals and business owners on complex tax and estate planning matters continues to strengthen the team’s offering.

In Business Restructuring and Insolvency, Lisa is recognised for her calm, solution-focused approach to complex and high-value matters, alongside her commitment to collaboration and team development. Nicholas has an impressive reputation within the contentious trusts and probate market, combining technical expertise with strong business development and raising the firm’s external profile across the sector.

Stephanie’s strategic thinking and leadership within Commercial Dispute Resolution has seen her take a leading role in the firm’s Finance Litigation offering, while Kate’s expertise in real estate finance, along with her commercial approach and trusted client relationships make her a key figure within the Real Estate and Banking teams.

Kate Imeson from the Commercial team joins Ella Wilkinson and Tanya Foran from Costs, Francesca Sykes, Amer Ali and Joe Hall from Banking and Finance, Emma Jones from Property Litigation, Brandon Pizarro from Construction, and Amy Buttrick from Corporate to all move to Senior Associate positions.

Kate’s commercial awareness and commitment to team culture have made a significant impact within the Commercial team, while Ella’s progression through apprenticeships and Tanya’s technical expertise and leadership continue to strengthen the Costs team.

In Banking and Finance, Frankie’s collaborative approach and strong client relationships have made her a key member of the team, while Amer’s technical expertise and commercial mindset continue to support the growth of key lender relationships. Joe’s leadership within the paralegal team and his role in improving efficiency and client service has also been recognised by a well-deserved promotion.

Emma’s natural litigation ability and trusted client relationships have made her a valuable addition to the Property Litigation team, while Brandon’s technical expertise and contribution to the wider firm culture continue to raise the profile of the Construction team. Amy’s approachable style and strong relationships across the firm also make her a trusted adviser to both clients and colleagues within the Corporate team.

Ellie Scally has also been promoted to Associate in the Costs team. Her strong financial performance, commitment to client service and willingness to support colleagues across the team have made her a hugely valued member of the firm.

Speaking on the promotions, Roger Hutton, Joint Managing Partner at Clarion, said: “These promotions recognise an exceptional group of people who continue to make a significant contribution to the success of the firm, our clients and our culture.

“From Partner through to Associate level, each individual has demonstrated outstanding technical expertise, commercial awareness and a real commitment to supporting those around them. Their ambition, leadership and collaborative approach are helping to drive the continued growth of the firm.

“At Clarion, we are passionate about developing and rewarding talent, and I’m incredibly proud to see so many colleagues progress in their careers. I look forward to seeing them continue to thrive in their new roles and play an important part in the future success of the business.”

 

Image provided by Clarion