Ward Hadaway appoints corporate partner

Law firm Ward Hadaway has appointed Paul Wigham as partner, strengthening its corporate team with additional technology and innovation expertise.

Paul joins the firm with more than 16 years’ experience advising on mergers and acquisitions, private equity and venture capital transactions. 

Based in the Newcastle office, he specialises in supporting high-growth technology businesses and university spinouts, advising founders, investors and management teams from early-stage funding through to scale-up and exit.

His recent work includes advising on high-profile transactions within the technology sector, reflecting his focus on helping ambitious businesses secure investment and achieve successful outcomes.

Paul said: “Ward Hadaway has a strong practice, a clear commercial focus and extensive connections to the local business community. 

“The firm is ambitious and entrepreneurial, which makes it an attractive move at this stage of my career. 

“There is a clear sense of momentum and I’m looking forward to playing a role in supporting clients and colleagues, with trusted and pragmatic advice, tailored to their specific needs.”

Nik Tunley, national head of corporate, added: “Paul brings many years of knowledge in the emerging technologies market, as well as trusted relationships with private equity and venture capital funds, which enable him to support the creation of strong financial partnerships that allow companies to grow and scale at the right time. 

“His experience complements our existing partner group and supports the breadth of work we are seeing from clients across the region and nationally.”

Paul’s appointment supports Ward Hadaway’s continued investment in its corporate practice as it expands its capability to advise businesses operating in emerging and complex markets across the UK. 

Steven Petrie, managing partner at Ward Hadaway, added: “Bringing Paul on board demonstrates our continued investment in senior talent, helping drive forward our long-term plans for the business. 

“His experience fits well with the work we are seeing across the business, particularly with technology led and investor backed companies. 

“Paul’s arrival further strengthens our ability to support clients on complex transactions and growth activity.”

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