Switalskis Solicitors has appointed Tim Halstead to the new role of chief operating officer.
The former Shulmans managing partner will work alongside Switalskis managing director John Durkan, across its 11 offices throughout the Yorkshire region.
Halstead was managing partner at Shulmans for 26 years, until its £20 million takeover by Knights earlier this year.
A well-respected legal industry figure, Halstead helped to grow Shulmans from a £1 million to an £18 million turnover business that enjoyed impressive average growth of more than 10% per annum since 2010.
Among his industry achievements, Halstead won the coveted Managing Partner of the Year Award at the Yorkshire Legal Awards in 2019. He is also chair of the board of trustees at Martin House Children’s Hospice at Boston Spa.
Commenting on Halstead’s appointment, Durkan (pictured, left) said: “I am very excited to welcome Tim to our management team and know that his knowledge and industry experience will be put to good use with immediate effect. He will work closely with the board and directors on key strategic matters and operational functions to ensure the firm is well placed to capitalise on growth opportunities. Tim will also concentrate on developing our staff to reach their full potential, as well as being a sounding board for them.”
“Tim’s vast experience of law firm management, his strategic approach and bringing with him a different perspective will be invaluable and puts us in a strong position as we continue to grow and develop our business.”
Halstead (pictured, right) added: “I have looked at various opportunities over the last few months but was particularly attracted to Switalskis’ culture, values and its solid approach to running a business. The firm works in a number of different areas of law to my previous firm, but the fundamentals of running a legal business are the same.”
“What matters to me is to work with people who share my approach to the way that legal services should be delivered and the importance of putting people at the heart of the business.”