Commercial law firm Brabners has bolstered its corporate practice with the appointment of senior associate Nicola Whittle. Based in Preston, Nicola joins the firm from Stephensons Solicitors.
Nicola specialises in corporate, restructuring and insolvency work. She brings with her a wealth of experience, having acted for a range of corporate clients, from SMEs to large corporates, and has particular expertise in mergers and acquisitions, MBOs, joint ventures and retirement sales.
In restructuring and insolvency work Nicola advises a national client base on both contentious and non-contentious matters. She works with purchasers and insolvency practitioners on transactional activity, such as implementing business recovery plans and assisting clients in the appointment of an administrator, as well as advising on contentious matters regarding the recovery of assets under The Insolvency Act.
The move gives Brabners’ corporate practice a permanent presence in Preston, and will enable the firm to develop its practice across Lancashire.
Commenting on her appointment, Nicola said: “Brabners’ corporate practice is not only one of the most active in the North West, it is highly-regarded by clients and continues to act for a range of ambitious businesses right across the UK. This provides a strong platform for future growth and I’m looking forward to working with the team as we develop this. Building a stronger presence in Preston will enable us to support a wider range of businesses in the area, as well as better serving our existing clients.”
David Bowcock, corporate partner at Brabners, added: “We have always worked with businesses in Lancashire and Nicola’s appointment gives our team an on-the-ground presence that will benefit many clients. Her experience of providing the full spectrum of corporate advice also ensures she will play an integral role in the future of our practice. This hire is a clear statement of intent when it comes to our commitment to the region.”
With a 39-strong team, Brabners has one of the largest corporate teams in the North West and is consistently recognised as the one of the most active legal advisers in the regional M&A market.