Thursday 18.09.2008

Corporate Team Expands As Market Share Grows

The Sheffield office of Halliwells has expanded its recently formed corporate practice, proving that South Yorkshire's deals market is as robust as ever.

Having got off to a flying start advising on 11 significant deals in its first four months alone, the practice has now responded to its growing local market share by welcoming two new additions.

Adam Hulme has transferred from Halliwells' head office in Manchester, having qualified with the firm in 2006. He advises on mergers and acquisitions and investment transactions, and has experience of private equity deals.

Jemma Brimblecombe has joined the practice as a trainee solicitor. She attended Sheffield University, where she obtained a first class honours degree, and subsequently remained in the city to complete her Legal Practice course.

The new arrivals will be working alongside Neil Thompson, who formed the practice on his arrival at Halliwells from DLA Piper, and associate Paul King. Both joined Halliwells in January. Andrew Carmichael, a property lawyer who deals exclusively with corporate support work, is also a key part of the team.

Commenting on the new recruits, Neil Thompson said: "Having hit the ground running from a zero base at the start of the year, we have proved that our move into corporate services is an entirely welcome one.

"With a growing team on board we are in a stronger position than ever to fulfil our long-term aim of establishing Halliwells as South Yorkshire's leading corporate firm.

"The office as a whole continues to grow in prominence and we’re delighted that the contemporary, no-frills approach that Halliwells has long been renowned for is now benefiting clients in the corporate arena."

Successful deals completed so far this year by the corporate practice include MBOs for part of Amco Corporation plc and for Sheffield based Mayflower Engineering Limited, in addition to a vendor initiated management buyout (VIMBO) for fabrication specialists Europa Engineering Group.

Other transactions completed over the last few weeks include acting for Sheffield United in relation to the sale of the Thames Club; Norman Hay plc in relation to the acquisition of Advanced Surface Treatments Limited, and the shareholders of Seals Packing & Gaskets Limited on the sale of the company to Wyko Group Limited.

About Halliwells

Halliwells is one of the UK's leading multi-disciplinary law firms with over 1000 people and offices in Manchester, Liverpool, London and Sheffield