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National law firm Clarke Willmott LLP has announced a raft of internal promotions for 2026.

In total 21 lawyers have been promoted across the firm’s regional offices, with the announcement including five individuals due to become partners, nine new senior associates and seven new associates.

Those promoted to partner are Vanessa Harris, clinical negligence; Kathryn Walters, employment; Ariaan Wilson, commercial property; Gabrielle Roberts, property litigation; and Emma Ironside, private client litigation.

Making the move from associate to senior associate are Henry Russell, property litigation; Peter Rooney, commercial property; Lauren Smart, estate administration; James Dunster, property litigation; Georgia Collier, private capital; Nils Richards, commercial property; Holly Smith, family law; Amanda Whatmore, commercial property; and Claire Smith, home sales.

New associates announced by Clarke Willmott are Tom Plow, construction; Sarah Arkless, private client; Sam Harkness, commercial and private client litigation; Georgina Stock, contentious construction; Marc Shevlin, corporate; Laura Sellman, commercial property; and Allanagh Davies, commercial property.

Clarke Willmott CEO, Peter Swinburn, said: “Our people sit at the centre of our success, and we’re committed to recognising those who make an exceptional contribution. One of the ways we do this is through our annual round of internal promotions which celebrate the amazing talent and diversity across our practice. Congratulations to all our newly promoted colleagues – we really look forward to seeing what you achieve in your new roles.” 

Dan Jones, Clarke Willmott’s HR director, said: “Investing in our people and supporting their progression is fundamental to our long‑term success. By developing skills, encouraging ambition and creating clear opportunities to progress, we ensure we can continue to provide an excellent service to our clients while building a sustainable and rewarding career environment for our colleagues.” 

Clarke Willmott is a national law firm with offices in Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, London, Manchester, Southampton and Taunton.

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Peter Swinburn

Chief Executive

Southampton and London
Peter is Clarke Willmott’s CEO and is responsible for the day to day management of the firm, chairs its executive board and define and implement the firm’s strategy.
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