North East legal powerhouse Ward Hadaway has announced a record financial performance, with turnover climbing by a significant 11.6% in its latest accounts.
Strong Growth Across the Board
The Newcastle-headquartered firm, which also operates from bases in Teesside, Leeds, Manchester, and Birmingham, reported a turnover of £53.6 million for the year ending April 2024. Operating profit held steady at £17.2 million, a result the firm attributes to a year of strategic investment.
Revenue saw an uplift across every department, with standout performances delivered by the housing, private client, and commercial disputes teams. Geographically, growth was recorded at all offices, spearheaded by an impressive 42% revenue surge in Manchester. The Leeds office also achieved strong double-digit growth.
Strategic Expansion and Future Ambitions
The period covered by these results included the strategic opening of a new office in Birmingham, extending the firm's footprint in the Midlands. Furthermore, since the year-end, Ward Hadaway has completed a merger with Teesside-based The Endeavour Partnership.
Managing partner Steven Petrie, who set ambitious growth targets upon taking the role in 2024, commented on the results. He aims to grow turnover by 50% within five years and double the firm's size over the next decade, targeting revenues above £100 million.
"These results reflect a sustained period of disciplined growth across the firm," Mr Petrie said. "We have delivered consistent performance across our offices and service lines, which is particularly significant given the wider economic and market conditions."
Investing in People and Infrastructure
The firm's accounts highlight that the strong financial performance supports continued investment. Priorities for 2026 include several new partner appointments across all offices and a move to larger premises in Birmingham.
"Our operating profit and balance sheet position allow us to look forward to the future with confidence," the accounts stated. The firm plans to continue investing in its people, client services, and technology infrastructure, alongside its strategies focusing on health, wellbeing, and inclusiveness.
Mr Petrie added, "Our ambition is to grow in a way that is sustainable and aligned with our values. The merger with The Endeavour Partnership and the opening of our Birmingham office are clear examples of this approach."
