Wilkes managing partner named leader of the year
Managing partner of leading law firm Wilkes, has been named leader of the year at the Women and Diversity in Law Awards.
Ellie Holland (pictured) has transformed the firm’s leadership and driving growth from £9.8m to a forecast of £17m since joining as the only woman on board in 2018.
Under her leadership, supported by the board, women now make up 43% of the firm's partner group, compared to her being the sole woman on the board when she was appointed Managing Partner at the age of 37.
The awards, held on 28 April at the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square, recognise outstanding women leaders and practitioners driving meaningful change across the UK legal profession.
Wilkes also saw two colleagues shortlisted in the Rising Star – National/Regional Law Firm category.
Charlotte Keys, Solicitor in the Real Estate team, was highly commended, while Alexandra Hastings-Smith, Solicitor in the Planning team, was also shortlisted.
Ellie Holland said: "This award is not just mine, but a reflection of the people we have at Wilkes and the commitment shown across the whole firm. It is very much a win for all of us.
“It was fantastic to see both Charlotte and Alexandra shortlisted as Rising Stars, with Charlotte also receiving a Highly Commended award from the judges.
“The categories were highly competitive, with major firms from across the country shortlisted, so it's great for Wilkes to be recognised at this level."
Gareth O'Hara, senior partner at Wilkes, said: "Ellie has driven significant change at Wilkes. Winning this award demonstrates that our commitment to diversity and inclusive leadership is being recognised beyond Birmingham, and it positions us well for continued growth."
The Women & Diversity in Law Awards, hosted by The Global Post, selected this year's shortlist from nearly 350 entries across 32 categories, featuring 82 law firms and chambers alongside not-for-profit organisations and businesses committed to ensuring the legal profession more closely reflects the society it serves
