Champion of the Week
Meet our Champion of the Week: Ian Robert Osborn, Head of Property at Dawson Radford Solicitors
My name is Ian Robert Osborn. I am Head of Property at Dawson Radford Solicitors, with over ten years of post-qualification experience. I hold an LL.B (Hons) and an MSc in Business with Legal Management, and in 2025, I was awarded ’Partner of the Year by the Sheffield & District Law Society.
Dawson Radford is a boutique law firm led by founder and Managing Director Joanna Dawson. Based outside traditional city centres, we support businesses across Chesterfield, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, and the Peak District with tailored legal solutions at every stage of their journey.
What is your organisation looking forward to?
We are excited to establish and grow our new Property Department – the very reason I was so keen to join the firm. Building close-knit, high-performing teams is something I take pride in.
We predominantly offer commercial and non-residential property services and, for the first time, agricultural and rural legal advice. This complements our strong corporate and commercial offering, enabling us to prove more comprehensive service to our clients.
What makes Chesterfield and North Derbyshire a good place to work?
Chesterfield is a fantastic place to work and shows that high-quality legal services do not need to be city-centre-based. Situated on the edge of the Peak District National Park, it offers access to a diverse mix of commercial, agricultural and rural clients.
It is well connected and benefits from a strong focus on regional development, supported by organisations such as Destination Chesterfield.
What sparked your decision to invest in Chesterfield or North Derbyshire and why?
I was born in Chesterfield and spent much of my early life in the town and surrounding Peak District. It is a place I am proud to call home.
Being able to offer legal services from a regional base just outside the town centre is particularly rewarding. Joanna has already built a distinctive niche, serving both local and national clients with a genuinely personable approach.
How would you describe Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, using only three words?
Collaborative. Friendly. Unique.
What places would you recommend to someone planning a two-night stay?
For history and beautiful surroundings, Chatsworth House and its estate in the nearby Peak District is a must-visit.
For dining, Bottle & Thyme on Elder Way in the town centre offers excellent food and cocktails, with a focus on locally sourced, sustainable ingredients in a relaxed setting.
How do Chesterfield and North Derbyshire showcase their culture and heritage?
The area’s heritage is reflected in landmarks such as Hardwick Hall, Hardwick Old Hall and Bolsover Castle, where history is brought to life.
Chesterfield Market, one of England’s oldest open-air markets, continues to play a central role. Its recent regeneration highlights a real commitment to preserving local character while investing in the future.
What is your vision for Chesterfield and North Derbyshire in 2030?
My vision is of a place that is thriving, connected and confident in its identity. I see a vibrant town centre, stronger career opportunities for young people, high-quality public spaces and a reputation for combining heritage with modern ambition.
To achieve this, we need regeneration that people can genuinely feel in their daily lives, alongside stronger support for businesses, greener communities and development that reconnects neighbourhoods. This will require consistent leadership, long-term investment and closer partnerships between education, employers and local authorities, as well as the confidence to promote the area as a place of opportunity.
Dawson Radford Solicitors, is one of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.
Find out more about our Champions network.
