Holden Smith transitions to employee-owned firm

A Yorkshire-based law firm with offices across the region and in Manchester has transitioned to an employee ownership trust (EOT).

Holden Smith, founded in 2019 by directors James Smith and David Bancroft, employs over 100 people and has reported a turnover of £8.5 million for the financial year ending October 2024.

James and David will maintain control over strategic decisions, along with Ryanne Smith and Leanne Pollard, directors of residential property and family law, respectively, while a newly appointed EOT board and employee council have been established. 

The board includes James and David, as well as corporate solicitor Rob Kelly, with conveyancing solicitor Zack Baines as the employee representative.

An employee council under the EOT board consists of Katie Sanderson, Frances Brocklehurst and Lauren Moody.

David said: “We founded Holden Smith to do things differently and becoming an employee-owned firm is a significant milestone in the firm’s journey.

“As we enter our sixth year of Holden Smith, it’s crucial for us to consider how we can achieve sustained growth and retain the exceptional talent that has helped shape our success. 

“Becoming an employee ownership trust helps to secure the future of the firm while also aligning the interests of our employees with those of our senior leadership team and our long-term vision.”

With offices in Huddersfield, Elland, Horsforth, Leeds, Queensbury and Manchester, Holden Smith specialises in residential property and family law.

James added: “Our people have been instrumental in the level of growth we have achieved since Holden Smith was founded in 2019. 

“We hope that by giving them a stake in the firm we can continue to foster a collaborative approach to future growth that has our team at its core and fosters a culture of shared success.

“Our clients are also assured that the future of the firm is not susceptible to the unpredictability of external takeovers or leadership changes, giving them an extra-layer of confidence in maintaining long-term, strategic partnerships with Holden Smith.

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