Kennedys

Kennedys has moved its Manchester office into new premises in Churchgate House on Oxford Street. 

The firm has increased its Manchester space by over 50%, taking 11,089 square feet in the recently renovated Grade II listed building as it plans further expansion. The move provides the 68-strong team with an improved working environment and enhanced client suite facilities.

Coinciding with the office move, Kennedys has appointed a five-lawyer team from Hill Dickinson, comprising partner Gordon Davidson, senior associate Robert Ashurst, and solicitors Christopher Abbott, Andrew Jones and Sophie McDonnell. Gordon and his team handle pre-litigation and litigated motor and casualty claims for insurers, transport companies, food manufacturers and local authorities.

Gordon is the former head of Hill Dickinson’s Manchester casualty team and was on the partnership board. He joined Hill Dickinson in 1996 and his practice encompasses small, fast and multi-track litigation. He specialises in defending employers’ and public liability matters, including disease, and motor claims. He becomes the ninth lateral partner hire in 2016.

Nick Thomas, senior partner at Kennedys, says: “Our growing business needs modern accommodation and our new Manchester office is in a vibrant, central location with great transport links. We have created our client suite facilities in collaboration with partners and clients and these will provide excellent facilities for meetings, seminars and entertainment. Manchester is an important location for us with many insurers and corporates based locally. We’re looking forward to settling in to the premises and continuing to grow the office.

“I’m also delighted that Gordon and his colleagues have joined to strengthen our personal injury offering. Their recruitment sends out a clear message that clients can expect the dual benefit of using local experts within a major international law firm.”