Law firm boss steps down after 23 years

Keith Hearn, who has been managing partner at Leeds-based Ford & Warren for 23 years, will be succeeded by Peter McWilliams, who is currently the firm’s head of business. Nick Collins, who is head of the firm’s contentious work, will assume the role of senior partner.

Mr Hearn, who has been with Ford & Warren since 1971, will stay on as a consultant.

Under Mr Hearn’s leadership, the firm moved from Park Square in Leeds to nearby Westgate Point in 1989. Since then, the commercial practice has more than quadrupled in size, now occupying the whole of the Westgate Point building.

Mr Hearn said: “Peter, Nick and myself have made a great team, ably supported by talented lawyers and dedicated support staff. I have enjoyed every minute of it. The firm is in good shape to face the challenges of the future, and I wish Peter, Nick and all at Ford & Warren every success.”

Mr McWilliams added: “Past and present partners are hugely grateful to Keith, who has overseen sustainable growth in this practice by absolute determination to deliver the very best service at the lowest investment possible. Our client list is testament to that.”

Ford & Warren, which has 150 staff, has traded under the same name since 1876. It has three divisions – litigation, business and finance and private client.