Wilkes law firm shortlisted for three West Midlands Rainmaker Awards

Wilkes law firm has been shortlisted in three categories at the West Midlands Rainmaker Awards 2026.

The firm has been shortlisted in the Regional Legal Team category, alongside Rick Smyth, partner in Wilkes Corporate team who has been nominated in the changemaker category.

The changemaker award recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to improving opportunities, diversity and inclusion within the deal’s community.

The sale of Wow Stuff Group to Dutch toy group Troy has also secured a shortlist nomination for medium deal of the year (£10m–£50m), further highlighting Wilkes’ growing reputation for standout mid-market deals.

Gareth O'Hara, (pictured) senior partner at Wilkes, said: “We're delighted to have been shortlisted across three categories this year, including regional legal team.

“It's been an outstanding year for the corporate team, and these shortlisting’s reflect the hard work and dedication everyone has put in.

“It's particularly pleasing to see Rick's work in the wider corporate finance community recognised in the changemaker category, and the wow stuff transaction was a significant piece of work for the team.”

The Rainmaker Awards celebrate standout deals, teams and individuals across the West Midlands corporate finance community over the past 12 months.

Winners are decided by the corporate finance community.

The awards ceremony takes place on 2 July at the Macdonald Burlington Hotel in Birmingham.