prabhu
Birmingham’s professional services sector is buzzing with ambition and opportunity, as evidenced by significant developments at two prominent firms: Gateley, a leading legal and professional services group, and Davies Archytas Accountants, a dynamic accountancy practice. Gateley has announced a robust wave of promotions at its Birmingham headquarters, elevating 18 talented professionals to new roles, while Davies Archytas has more than doubled its office space in Redditch to accommodate its growing team. These milestones reflect the vibrancy of Birmingham’s business landscape and the dedication of its professionals to driving excellence.
A New Partner and Leadership Promotions
At the heart of Gateley’s recent achievements is a significant round of promotions at its Birmingham head office, a hub of legal and professional services for over two centuries. Leading the charge is Kate Canning, a skilled commercial dispute resolution lawyer, who has been elevated to partner. Her promotion underscores Gateley’s commitment to recognising exceptional talent in high-stakes legal fields. Joining her in leadership roles are four newly appointed legal directors: Jo Dugdale and David Williams, both specialising in tax; Jonathan Cree, an expert in residential development; and Emma Styles, a construction law specialist. Additionally, Harriet Eden has been named a legal director professional support lawyer in the residential development team, bringing her expertise to a pivotal support role.
Senior and Associate Advancements
The promotions extend further, with Tammi Broad (tax), Daniel Packer (real estate), and Sadie Rice (regulatory and business defence) stepping into senior associate positions. These advancements highlight the depth of expertise within Gateley’s diverse practice areas. Meanwhile, eight solicitors have been promoted to associate roles, strengthening the firm’s capabilities across multiple disciplines. These include Amy Ellis and Kim Strachan in corporate law, Sarah Morris in commercial dispute resolution, Chantal Marsh in construction, and Charlotte Weston, James Coupland, Sultana Begum, and Rebecca Green in residential development. Each promotion reflects Gateley’s investment in fostering talent to meet the evolving needs of its clients.
A New Director at Gateley Hamer
Beyond its legal teams, Gateley’s property consultancy arm, Gateley Hamer, has welcomed Ben Caldwell as its new director. A chartered surveyor with over 14 years of experience in the utility sector, Caldwell has worked with 18 of the top 20 housing developers in the UK, navigating complex residential and commercial development sites impacted by utility infrastructure. His appointment signals Gateley Hamer’s intent to bolster its strategic offerings in property consultancy, further solidifying its reputation as a trusted partner in the sector.
A Legacy of Excellence
Rebecca Sherwin, partner and head of Gateley’s Birmingham office, emphasised the significance of these promotions, noting that Birmingham has been the firm’s home for over 200 years. “We are immensely proud of the talent we nurture here,” Sherwin said. “These promotions reflect the dedication and outstanding results our team delivers, consistently surpassing client expectations.” She added that developing talent is a cornerstone of Gateley’s ethos, with the firm committed to supporting its people as they advance in their careers. The Birmingham promotions are part of a broader wave of 73 advancements across Gateley’s UK offices, including nine new partners, highlighting the firm’s national growth trajectory.
From Humble Beginnings to Ambitious Expansion
In a parallel story of progress, Davies Archytas Accountants has embarked on a significant expansion by relocating to a larger office space in Redditch, just next door to its original premises. Founded in 2018 by Daryl Davies, a seasoned professional with 34 years of experience in accountancy, the firm has grown from a small team of four to a robust staff of 18. The move from a 1,010-square-foot office at 14 The Oaks to a 2,790-square-foot space across two floors at 12 and 13 The Oaks, secured in a £340,000 deal, marks a transformative step for the firm.
Room to Grow
Daryl Davies reflected on the firm’s journey, noting, “When we first set up at The Oaks, it was just me and three others in a space that felt too big. Now, with 18 team members, we’ve outgrown that office, and desk-sharing has become the norm.” The new, larger premises provide each employee with their own workspace and allow room for future growth. Davies anticipates hiring additional staff within the next year, signalling confidence in the firm’s continued expansion. “This move gives us the foundation to keep growing,” he added.
A Strategic Investment
In a savvy financial move, Davies has purchased the new property through his pension fund, a strategy he often recommends to clients. “I’m practising what I preach,” he said. “This property is not just a new home for our business but also a smart investment for the future.” The deal, facilitated by Ben Truslove of property agency John Truslove and supported by law firm Andrew Owen & Co, took time to finalise but has positioned Davies Archytas for sustained success. Truslove noted, “This new office provides the perfect platform for Davies Archytas to continue its impressive growth.”
Birmingham’s Professional Sector Thrives
The stories of Gateley and Davies Archytas reflect a broader trend of dynamism in Birmingham’s professional services sector. Gateley’s promotions demonstrate a commitment to cultivating talent and delivering exceptional client outcomes, while Davies Archytas’ expansion showcases the entrepreneurial spirit driving small firms to scale new heights. Together, these developments underscore the region’s role as a hub for innovation, expertise, and opportunity.
For Gateley, the elevation of 18 professionals in Birmingham, alongside Ben Caldwell’s appointment at Gateley Hamer, strengthens the firm’s ability to serve clients across legal and property consultancy services. The firm’s focus on career development ensures that its team remains at the forefront of their respective fields, ready to tackle complex challenges. Similarly, Davies Archytas’ bold move to a larger office reflects its growth-oriented mindset and strategic planning, positioning the firm to attract new talent and clients.
As Birmingham continues to solidify its reputation as a powerhouse for professional services, firms like Gateley and Davies Archytas are leading the way, investing in their people and infrastructure to drive long-term success. These milestones are not just individual triumphs but a testament to the region’s enduring legacy as a centre of excellence in law, accountancy, and beyond.
