New role for leading Yorkshire lawyer

James Haddleton will leave law firm DWF, where he is currently Leeds executive partner, next month to become head of legal with Clinigen Group.

Mr Haddleton is a former winner of the Yorkshire Lawyer of the Year title, and a past President of the Leeds Law Society.

Mr Haddleton, who has worked for DWF for seven years, told The Yorkshire Post that he was looking forward to his new role as an in-house counsel.

Andrew Leaitherland, DWF’s managing partner and CEO, said: “On behalf of the firm, I would very much like to thank James, for all his efforts and wish him every success in his new position. We look forward to working with him in his new role.”

DWF has appointed partner Nic Crocker as the new executive partner at its Leeds office, where the firm employs 300 people and has 41 partners.

Mr Crocker has more than 24 years’ experience as a partner at national law firms, including seven years at DWF, where he is also the national head of real estate.

Mr Leaitherland said: “Nic has excellent leadership experience, and it his commitment to engaging closely with his colleagues and clients alike, that will be a key factor in supporting future growth and development in Leeds.

“The executive partner role is essential for creating a strong voice and positive culture in each region.”