A LAW firm has completed a management buyout and restructured its board.
Walker Foster, the West and North Yorkshire-based practice, completed the buyout with the support of legal advisors Schofield Sweeney following the retirement of long-serving Stuart Rowland and Keith Hardington.
Equity directors Maxine Heppenstall and Ian Haynes, who acquired the full share capital, have introduced a new board of directors as part of the firm’s restructuring.
Ms Heppenstall said: “With Keith and Stuart taking retirement, Ian and I decided that, alongside the MBO, it was the perfect time to restructure the senior team.
“Walker Foster is an established and respected firm and this is an important step in its progression and growth, ensuring continuity, fresh perspectives and strong leadership.”
Founded in 1919, Walker Foster operates across West and North Yorkshire with offices in Skipton, Ilkley, Barnoldswick, Harrogate, Northallerton, Silsden, and Settle.
Ms Heppenstall will remain managing director, while Mr Haynes continues as head of residential conveyancing.
Other board appointments include executive director Craig Williams, who becomes head of corporate and commercial following a departmental merger, and Jayne Schofield, who has taken on the role of executive director and director of operations.
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Partner Michael Cantwell led the advisory team at Schofield Sweeney, supported by colleagues Lucy Holroyd and Andrada Frates.
Mr Cantwell said: “We have worked alongside Walker Foster for a number of years and were delighted to be able to support Maxine and Ian in ensuring a smooth exit for the retiring equity partners and taking this well-regarded business into its next chapter.”
