CMP Legal

Prestigious Legal 500 listing for Chesterfield’s CMP Legal

CMP Legal, a niche commercial law firm based in Chesterfield has been ranked in the prestigious Legal 500.

The company is the only law firm based in Chesterfield to be recognised in the Corporate and Commercial: Elsewhere in East Midlands category.

For over three decades, the Legal 500 has been analysing the capabilities of law firms across the world, with a comprehensive research programme revised and updated every year to bring the most up-to-date vision of the global legal market.

The Legal 500 assesses the strengths of law firms in over 150 jurisdictions. The rankings are based on a series of criteria, the Legal 500 highlight the practice area teams who are providing the most cutting edge and innovative advice to corporate counsel.

The Legal 500 research is based on feedback from 300,000 clients worldwide, submissions from law firms and interviews with leading private practice lawyers, and a team of researchers who have unrivalled experience in the legal market.

Anna Cattee, Executive Director at CMP Legal said: “We are delighted to be ranked in the Legal 500. This is such a remarkable achievement and an incredible milestone for CMP Legal. We launched in 2021 and to receive such recognition in such a short period of time, and from the firm’s very first submission, is testament to the hard work and commitment from everyone in our team.

“It is fantastic to be ranked alongside such high-calibre, well-established and large national corporate law firms. We’re immensely proud of our achievement.”

The Legal 500 Editorial commentary stated: “Commended for its ‘attractive depth of knowledge and experience,’ CMP Legal Limited’s key strengths lie in corporate restructuring, M&A, and shareholder agreements. Anna Cattee oversees the practice from Chesterfield and is well-informed in healthcare law. The ‘technically accomplished, well-connected and commercially minded’ Cattee is also knowledgeable of distribution agreements.”

One of the independent testimonials featured read: “The team at CMP have an attractive depth of knowledge and experience coupled with excellent client care skills. They go above and beyond to meet timescales and expectations with first rate advice.”

CMP Legal supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

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Chesterfield’s CMP Legal shortlisted for two prestigious awards

Chesterfield based CMP Legal has been shortlisted as a finalist for two prestigious accolades at the 2024 Yorkshire Legal Awards.

The company has been shortlisted for the Corporate & Commercial Award and Anna Cattee, Executive Director at CMP Legal has been shortlisted for the Partner of the Year Award.

The Yorkshire Legal Awards brings together the region’s legal community to recognise and celebrate its many achievements.

The award categories encompass a wide range of nominees, from large corporate firms, leading barristers, senior partners to rising stars. The awards are judged by a prestigious independent panel made up of experts from across the Yorkshire legal community.

The Shortlist for the Corporate & Commercial Award is:

• Brabners
• Clarion
• CMP Legal Limited
• DWF LAW LLP
• Ison Harrison
• Mills & Reeve
• Ramsdens Solicitors LLP
• Ward Hadaway LLP

The Shortlist for the Partner of the Year Award is:

• CMP Legal Limited‘s Anna Cattee
• Fenchurch Law‘s Daniel Robin
• Hawkswell Kilvington‘s Rachel Heald
• Irwin Mitchell LLP‘s Oliver Collett
• Leigh Day‘s Bethany Sanders
• Minton Morrill/Fletchers Solicitors‘ Sahida Patel
• rradar‘s Stephanie Thirlwell
• Schofield Sweeney‘s Leo Jones-Rowe

Anna Cattee, Executive Director at CMP Legal said: We are delighted to be shortlisted as finalists for both the Corporate & Commercial Award and Partner of the Year Award at the 2024 Yorkshire Legal Awards. It’s incredible to be recognised alongside such high-calibre, well-established and large national corporate law firms.

“For CMP Legal to be amongst such worthy competition showcases the quality of the deals we act on and the status of the clients we work with. To be finalists is a testament to the hard work and commitment from everyone in our team. As one of the founders I’m very proud of the recognition that our business has received since it was established in 2021.”

The winners will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony on 10th October 2024 at the First Direct Arena in Leeds. The awards will be hosted by British criminal barrister and television personality, Rob Rinder and will include a champagne reception, three-course meal and entertainment.

CMP Legal was established at the end of the pandemic in 2021. a leading niche commercial law firm that specialises in corporate, commercial, dispute resolution and employment law Over the past 3 years, the company has gone from strength to strength and continues to expand its team.

CMP Legal supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

CMP Legal team photo

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CMP Legal advises on £85m worth of corporate deals in a year

A Chesterfield law firm has experienced substantial growth over the last year, with the company advising on 28 corporate transactions totaling more than £85 million.

CMP Legal is a niche commercial law business, specialising in corporate, commercial, dispute resolution and employment law.

Achieving a combined deal value in excess of £85 million over a 12 month period is a major milestone for the company, which launched 3 years ago at the end of the pandemic.

Established in 2021, CMP Legal has gone from strength to strength and has carved a niche as an approachable, but commercially focused law firm that prides itself on providing a high level service, whilst offering a fresh perspective.

Over the past year, CMP Legal has acted across a variety of sectors, earning a nationwide reputation for its strong expertise in the Dental and Pharmacy sectors.

In addition, the firm has acted upon two large scale Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) and has served as trusted advisors to the Professional Services sector on their acquisitions.

CMP Legal advised on the following Corporate Transactions from April 2023 to 5th April 2024:

  • Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) – 2 deals
  • Pharmacy Purchases & Sales – 5 deals
  • Dental Purchases & Sales – 13 deals
  • Professional Services Purchases & Sales – 4 deals
  • General (Share Buybacks, MBOs, Non-sector specific) – 4 deals

The firm advises on all forms of corporate transactions, across all industries, including mergers and acquisitions, disposals, private equity transactions, transaction due diligence, joint ventures, shareholder agreements, reorganisations and demergers, corporate structures and governance. The company also provides dispute resolution and employment law advice.

Anna Cattee, Executive Director at CMP Legal says: “It’s testament to our small but uniquely focused team, to have been able to achieve the level and value of the deals in such a short space of time, we’re continually growing and investing into our infrastructure to enable us to be able to provide such high level services to our clients and continue to meet the demand. The team is growing year on year and whilst it’s been an undeniably, fantastic year, we’re not seeing any slow down in instructions as we head into year 4.

“We will continue to strive to provide the high levels of service which we are known for. The deals we have worked on, are for a mix of existing clients and new clients who have been referred to us and it is testament to our growing and deserved, high reputation as a premier law firm, distinguished by its expertise and unwavering commitment to client success. We’ve carved a niche as approachable but commercially focused lawyers and our deal volume and calibre of work shows this is what clients want. We wouldn’t be here without our clients and referrers, who trust us with their own clients, so we would like to take this opportunity to say thank you.”

CMP Legal supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

CMP Legal Team Image

 

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Chesterfield legal firms celebrated at regional awards ceremony

Two Chesterfield legal firms, Banner Jones Solicitors and CMP Legal received accolades at the annual Sheffield & District Law Society Awards.

The team at Banner Jones are celebrating after winning Employment Team of the Year at the event, which took place on the 23rd of February at the historic Crowne Plaza Royal Victoria Hotel, Sheffield.

The event saw the Employment Team take home the accolade for the third consecutive year.

Commenting on the news, Banner Jones’ Chief Executive, Simon Wright, said: “The Sheffield & District Law Society Awards provide an opportunity for the local legal community to come together to celebrate our many achievements and successes from across the year.

“It is therefore a real privilege and an honour to have been shortlisted in three categories, and to have taken home another of the awards. Our collective success is a real testament to the hard work and dedication that everyone at the firm has shown over the past 12 months.

“A huge congratulations in particular goes to our Employment Law team, who have now won for the third consecutive year!”

Katie and Sara Banner Jones Employment Team of the Year

Katie Ash, Head of Banner Jones’ Employment team, added: “We are delighted to have won Employment Law Team of the Year for the third time.

“It has been a pleasure to help guide our clients through the past year and we are very much looking forward to building on those relationships throughout 2024 and beyond.”

Meanwhile, fellow Chesterfield solicitors, CMP Legal were also successful at the event, taking home the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Team of the Year award.

Stacey Pocock, Solicitor and Executive Director at CMP Legal commented: “Winning the Litigation & Dispute Resolution Team of the Year award underlines the effort and hard work that has gone into the creation of CMP Legal since we opened our doors for business three years ago.

“We are all thrilled and delighted by the recognition we have received”.

Banner Jones Solicitors and CMP Legal support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

CMP Legal Litigation & Dispute Resolution Team of the Year

 

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Chesterfield Businesses celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2024

Several Chesterfield businesses have celebrated National Apprenticeship Week 2024 with new recruits, high achievement and support for local apprentices in our town.

National Apprenticeship Week ( February 5-11) shines a spotlight on the incredible benefits of apprenticeships both for people looking to build a rewarding career and businesses looking to bolster their skilled workforce.

Find out more about how the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have been supporting apprenticeships in recent weeks and months.


Roy Peters Estates’ George Glazebrook achieves distinction on Level 2 apprenticeship

RS and George

George Glazebrook, who has been undertaking a Level 2 Housing and Property Management apprenticeship with Chesterfield’s Roy Peters Estates, has acheived the highest grade possible on his Level 2 course.

George commented: “I love working for Roy Peters Estates in Chesterfield, being in the industry at a young age is great as I’m always learning and gaining new skills. Surrounding myself with people who have lots of experience and knowledge within the industry is also extremely important to me as I would have not have these same opportunities within a class room.

I have just completed level 2 apprenticeship and was delighted that I achieved a distinction grade across all three elements of the examination, which was extremely rewarding as I had put a lot of hard work into the apprenticeship overall”.

Richard Sherwood, Director at Roy Peters Estates, added: “Everyone here at Roy Peters is delighted that George has passed his Level Two Qualification in Housing and Property Management. George has become a real asset to our business and I understand that he plans to move forward to Level Three which will give us another qualified member of our team.

“This, and the maths qualification he achieved during his apprenticeship will give George an excellent start to his business career. It is encouraging that Roy Peters Estates have received a number of positive reviews about George and I have had personal feedback from valued clients as to how well he represents our organisation.

“Roy Peters Estates have also just won the British Property Letting Award for Chesterfield and I’m sure George played his part, along with the rest of the team, in achieving this award.”


Windowcharm Blinds & Curtain Services announces new content creator apprentice

Chesterfield’s Windowcharm Blinds and Curtain Services has added another apprentice to its growing team.

Romario Clarke is the third apprentice to join the company, and will be working alongside fellow apprentices Katie Wheatley and Matt Willis.

Mike Jones, Head of Customer Relations at Windowcharm commented: “Our experienced professionals from three departments will provide them with on-the-job training, mentorship, and support.

“Romario, Katie, and Matt have introduced new and innovative ideas to our business, which has been established since 1975.

“We are eager to guide them during the early years of their careers and see how their contributions will improve our productivity and performance.”

Romario said: “While only joining recently, I’ve already felt as if I have a very supportive team around me. Doing a content creation apprenticeship at Windowcharm, I already feel like an important member of the team as I’ve been trusted to spearhead the content creation for Windowcharm.”


CMP Legal’s Amelia Bacon to undertake solicitor qualifying apprenticeship

CMP Amelia

Amelia Bacon, who has worked for Chesterfield’s CMP Legal for just over two years as a Paralegal in the firm’s corporate team, is set to take the next step in her career by taking on an apprenticeship to secure her SQE Qualifications.

The SQE is two exam papers set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). Therefore, Amelia will be studying for her SQE while undertaking her apprenticeship, gaining the necessary qualifying work which she also needs to be able to qualify as a solicitor.

Amelia’s SQE course will be taught by the training provider with a series of online workshops, lectures and assessments as well as one to one support from a personal tutor. CMP Legal will be supervising her work experience and ensuring that she’s exposed to a wide variety of work to ensure that when she passes her SQE, she’ll be able to apply to the SRA to be admitted as a solicitor, straight away.

Amelia said: “I’m thrilled to be starting my solicitor qualifying apprenticeship and I’m very grateful that CMP Legal are supporting my career ambitions. I can’t wait to get started on the course in March.

Stacey Pocock, Solicitor and Executive Director at CMP Legal added: “The introduction of the SQE is a relatively new concept in the legal profession and so to be able to support Amelia with an apprenticeship is something that we were very keen to do. Employing an apprentice is an excellent way for us to grow our business but equally, it’s a positive way for our valued team members to achieve their career ambitions.”


CCM Change Consultancy collaborates with Rosewood Wealth Management to develop apprentices

Two young women sitting at laptops in an office with a view out the window

Abi Dodd and Demi Walker, Rosewood Wealth Management, Level 3 Business Administrator Apprentices

Chesterfield’s CCM Change Consultancy is currently working alongside two apprentices at Rosewood Wealth Management, to further develop their skills.

The two Chesterfield Champions have worked together, with CCM assisting the finance company’s rising stars Abigiail Dodd and Demi Walker, with assimilation into the workplace and development of fundamental tools. This work is providing a solid foundation for the apprentices to take on technical industry knowledge.

CCM Change Consultancy owner, Nick Gorman said: “Some of our current work is around – Plan & Prepare, Complete v Finish, Right First Time, Internal customer, Flow.

“Working with apprentices is one of the most rewarding aspects of mentoring. Abigail and Demi are an absolute pleasure to work with and the future for them looks bright.”


The businesses featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Chesterfield Champions shortlisted in the inaugural unLTD Business Awards

Several businesses in the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have been shortlisted in the unLTD Business Awards.

The inaugural unLTD Business Awards celebrate the best Start Ups, SMEs and Entrepreneurs in the South Yorkshire region who are helping to drive the local economy forward.

Chesterfield-based CMP Legal, a niche commercial law firm that specialises in corporate, commercial, dispute resolution and employment law has been shortlisted as a Finalist for the Legal Company of the Year Award at the ceremony.

Stacey Pocock, Co-Founder of CMP Legal said: “We are delighted to be shortlisted as a Finalist for the Legal Company of the Year Award at the unLTD Business Awards 2023 and I’m very proud of every single team member who has contributed to our success.

“We’ve been in business for just under three years and to be nominated alongside such well known legal firms is a testament to the impact that CMP Legal has had on the legal services market, since we emerged onto the scene.”

CMP Legal Team

CMP Legal team

In addition, Redbrik Estate Agents has been shortlisted for Property & Construction Company of the Year. SMH Group has also made it onto the list of finalists in the Finance & Accountancy Company of the Year category.

Latsly, another Chesterfield Champion, The Children’s Hospital Charity has been nominated as a finalist in the Best Not For Profit, Charity or Social Enterprise category.

The winners will be announced at the unLTD Business Awards on 30th November 2023 at the Peddler Warehouse in Sheffield. The awards will be hosted by The Chase’s Paul Sinha and will feature entertainment from local musicians, DJs and circus performers.

Find out more about how your organisation could become part of Chesterfield’s vibrant business community. 

CMP Legal, SMH Group, Redbrik Estate Agents, and The Children’s Hospital Charity support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

View of the Crooked Spire from above

Image courtesy of Derbyshire Economic Partnership

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How do I start a career in law or finance?

Are you a team player, good at working under pressure and have an eye for detail? If so, a career in law or finance might be for you.

From lots of career options and opportunities to specialise in a specific area, to a competitive salary – there are many benefits to working in law and finance. To understand more about the benefits and what it’s like working in these sectors, we spoke to individuals working at local businesses.


Why should I consider a career in Law?

1. I am gaining practical experience through training on-the-job as a solicitor

An SQE is a graduate apprenticeship route, allowing you to qualify by completing Solicitors Qualifying Exams (SQE). This means you can join a firm with a degree or approved equivalent. Katie Bottoms is an SQE apprentice at Family Law Group. She said:

Katie Bottoms, Family Law Group

Katie Bottoms, Family Law Group

“I wanted to start working in the legal sector to gain experience before thinking about what area of law I wanted to qualify in. I enjoyed family law and did not want to leave my job to do the LPC (Legal Practice Course) and qualify via a training contract. Therefore, it made sense for me to do the SQE alongside working as I could meet the work experience requirements whilst preparing for my exams.

Working in divorce and matrimonial finances, you have to have knowledge of a range of different financial products in order to advise clients fully. You have to have attention to detail, but you also have to be able to be reactive when urgent issues arise. It is rewarding to be able to help guide a client through the issues resulting from their separation.”

Search the career opportunities available at Family Law Group…

2. I started my career in law as a trainee solicitor

Lauren Smith is a Trainee Solicitor at Banner Jones Solicitors, currently completing her LPC (Legal Practice Course) at the University of Sheffield. She explained:

Lauren Smith, Banner Jones

Lauren Smith, Banner Jones

“Becoming a Solicitor has always been the career goal for me so after completing my LPC at the University of Sheffield, obtaining a Training Contract with a firm was the next step to achieve that goal. Fortunately, Banner Jones gave me a training contract and has encouraged me and helped with my career progression. I am now 9 months into a 2-year training period and loving it.

My advice to someone considering a career in financial and legal is to always ask lots of questions. There’s no such thing as a silly question and I have found that I have learnt so much by leaning on my peers and colleagues for advice and support. Don’t assume that you have to move away to get into a career that you will love…it could be right on your doorstep!”

Learn more careers at Banner Jones…

3. An apprenticeship allowed me to progress my career to a Paralegal

Amelia & Harriet, CMP Legal

Amelia & Harriet, CMP Legal

An apprenticeship gave Amelia Bacon a foot in the door and an opportunity to progress her career in law with a CILEX qualification (The Chartered Institute of Legal Executives). Amelia is a Paralegal at CMP Legal. She said:

“I really enjoy the variation of work and also learning on the job. I started my career as an apprentice back in 2015 because I was able to earn money and gain experience within a law firm whilst studying.

My apprenticeship has led me to study with CILEX Law School and I hope to qualify as a Solicitor within the next few years. I would encourage young people to look into an apprenticeship. This is because University is not the only route available for you to achieve your career goals.”

4. I love I can earn a wage whilst training to be a Paralegal

Harriet Flowers is a Paralegal at CMP Legal and chose a Level 2 Business Administration apprenticeship as a route into the sector. She expressed:

“I became an apprentice as I wanted to gain knowledge whilst working in an office environment and also earning some money. I prefer practical learning so I felt this was the best career route for me.

“Apprenticeships are great if you enjoy a variety of work and learning on the job. I believe I gained lots of skills and knowledge from various colleagues when assisting them with tasks. I found the face-to-face communication with clients helped me gain confidence and the apprenticeship gave me a route into the law.”

Discover current vacancies at CMP Legal…


Why might a career in finance be for me?

1. I used an apprenticeship to grow my skill set in accounting

Sam Kelly SMH Group

Sam Kelly is currently training as an Accountant through an AAT apprenticeship scheme (Association of Accounting Technicians) at SMH Group. He said:

“Working in the financial and legal sector has been an enriching experience. It’s a fast-paced and dynamic industry that requires a keen eye for detail and a strong understanding of numbers. The sector offers a wide range of opportunities, from working in finance departments of businesses to providing financial advice or even becoming a qualified accountant which is my end goal.

“I became an apprentice because I saw it as a fantastic opportunity to gain practical experience while studying for a professional qualification. I wanted a career in accounting, and an apprenticeship seemed like the perfect way to kickstart my journey.”

Browse career opportunities at SMH Group… 

2. I used an apprenticeship to grow my knowledge and skills in finance

Lewis Atkins is Apprentice Administrator at Mortgage 1st. He’s working towards a Level 3 apprenticeship in Business Administration. Lewis explained:

Lewis Atkins, Mortgage 1st

Lewis Atkins, Mortgage 1st

“Becoming an apprentice felt like the best career path to grow my knowledge and skills in this field of work. So far, I have gained an outstanding amount of information to help me take different paths within the industry.

“I enjoy the variety of work my apprenticeship brings me. I can be focused on the business side of things as working in a mortgage broker, however, then being able to switch it up and focus on the admin work my role brings me!”

Explore apprenticeship vacancies and other roles at Mortgage 1st… 


Ready to start your career?

Apprentice Town - Find Your Apprenticeship - Social Media Landscape2

Apprenticeships are available at all different levels, across many different roles and sectors. This makes apprenticeships suitable for everyone. Whether you’re wanting to start your career, looking for a change of career or upskilling your current job, an apprenticeship may be the right path for you.

Browse current apprenticeship vacancies in Chesterfield here…

Maybe a traineeship or another training route is more suitable for you? Make sure to research what training local legal and financial businesses have to offer.

Find a helpful guide to careers in law here…

Learn more about career options in finance here…

Whatever pathway you choose, Chesterfield is a fantastic base for your career.

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Local events and initiatives launched to benefit Chesterfield community

A host of local events and new initiatives have been announced by various organisations across Chesterfield, further strengthening the local community.

Recent initiatives launched include new networking events for businesses, a charity walk at Chatsworth, the return of the prestigious ‘In Bloom’ competition and a support group set up by Chesterfield FC for former footballers affected by dementia.

Find out more about the latest community news from across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire below.


Chesterfield In Bloom competitions now open

Chesterfield in Bloom

Green-fingered residents are being encouraged to show off their talents in this year’s Chesterfield In Bloom competitions.

With more than six categories there is the opportunity for everyone to get involved no matter how big or small their outside space is.

Chris Turner, Chair of the Chesterfield in Bloom committee, said: “Last year not only did we win on a regional level, but we also received lots of fantastic entries for our Chesterfield In Bloom competitions from local gardeners. The standard was exceptional and I can’t wait to see the entries for this year.

“We’re excited to see all types of garden from the largest allotments through to container displays. Please do get your entries in as soon as possible and I wish everyone the best of luck in this years competition.

People have until Friday 16 June to submit their entries or to nominate their neighbours in the following categories:

• Best Front Garden
• Best Back Garden up to 80m2
• Best Back Garden larger than 80m2
• Best Container Garden
• Best Blooming Pub/Restaurant
• Best Allotment (with subcategories based on size)

There is also an exclusive competition for council tenants, and entries are invited for Best Garden (either front or back) and Best Containers.

Residents can only enter two categories but everyone who takes part is automatically entered for the best overall garden judging.

The ever-popular schools’ competition makes a return this year too.

After the town’s success last year, the council will also be entering East Midlands In Bloom again and winners of the above competitions may also be included in the judging later this year.

Entry forms are available on the council’s website: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/bloom


CMP Legal brings ‘Network King’ event to Chesterfield 

Network King Image

CMP Legal, a leading niche commercial law firm that specialises in corporate, commercial, dispute resolution and employment law is bringing ‘Network King’ to Chesterfield to support local businesses in the professional community.

The Chesterfield based law firm that delivers expert services to clients in Derbyshire, Sheffield and across the UK has arranged for Network King to host a networking event at The Batch House in Chesterfield on Thursday 11th May 2023. This event is expected to attract over 100 local delegates from the professional community, including Banks, Finance Providers, Accountancy Firms, Law Firms, Asset Based Lenders and Insolvency Firms.

The event will be sponsored by Chesterfield based CMP Legal and Leonard Curtis. Network King aims to provide an alternative to traditional networking events, by putting the fun back into networking.

Anna Cattee, Co-Founder of CMP Legal says: “It’s been great to bring Network King across the county border into Chesterfield and be part of providing a new networking event for the local, professional community. When we set up CMP Legal, we wanted to shake up the local legal sector and assist businesses across the area, so to have been part of creating a new, popular event, which allows us to network with each other is hugely beneficial for the professional community.”

Richard Pinder, Director of Leonard Curtis and Co-Founder of Network King says: “Network King was set-up with a view to providing networking events specifically for the professional sector.  Karl Hodson (co-founder) and I had attended enough networking events to know what good looked like and we wanted to translate that in to fantastic events across the Yorkshire region and further afield.  Leonard Curtis has helped the organisation grow by supporting events in areas where they have a strong presence and will continue to do so as the Network King events attract the right calibre of people to strengthen our brand.”


Spireites in Mind launched

Spireites-in-Mind

Chesterfield FC Community Trust has launched Spireites in Mind – a support group for former players affected by dementia, together with their families.

Fronted by legendary former Spireite Sean O’Neill, the event saw ex-England internationals Tony Currie and Dave Watson join a host of ex-Chesterfield players at the event, including Jim Brown, Dave Pugh, Bill Dearden and Colin Prophett.

Jenny Moss, the wife of Spireites legend Ernie Moss, also attended the lunchtime meeting held in the SBK Spires Restaurant.

ITV Calendar were in attendance and conducted interviews for a feature which was broadcast.


Chatsworth to host Pink Ribbon Walk

Chatsworth House

On the 8th July, Breast Cancer Now’s Pink Ribbon Walk is returning to the beauty hotspot of Chatsworth House. The charity is calling on outdoor lovers to step forward for people affected by breast cancer at the 10 or 20-mile walks.

The Pink Ribbon Walk events are one of the Breast Cancer Now’s biggest and best-loved fundraising events – having raised more than £14.5 million for world class breast cancer research and support since its first walkers crossed the finish line in 2005.

Claire Pulford, Associate Director, Community and Events at Breast Cancer Now, said: “It’s fabulous to once again be inviting everyone to put their best foot forward and get sponsored to join us for one of our Pink Ribbon Walks at Chatsworth.

“Every 10 minutes, someone in the UK hears the words “you have breast cancer”. Money raised from Pink Ribbon Walk events will help us to provide support for today and hope for the future for people affected by breast cancer.

Walkers will be supported all the way with a clearly marked route, expert guides and regular rest stops with snacks – allowing those taking part to soak up the spectacular scenery and focus on reaching that finish line.


Chesterfield Borough Council, CMP Legal, Chatsworth House and Chesterfield FC support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Chesterfield legal firm launches employment law training workshops and free health checks for local businesses

CMP Legal, a leading niche commercial law firm that specialises in corporate, commercial, dispute resolution and employment law is launching a series of new Employment Law Training Workshops and Free Employment Law Health Checks to support local businesses.

The Chesterfield based law firm will be hosting a series of Employment Law Training Workshops that will cover a range of topics including Handling Investigations, Disciplinaries and Grievances, Managing Sickness Absence, Equality, Discrimination and Harassment in the Workplace and Redundancies and Restructures.

The firm will also be offering Free Employment Law Health Checks to help local businesses navigate the ever-changing employment law landscape. The Employment Law Health Check will assess if all HR documentation, including policies, employment contracts, staff handbooks and employee privacy notices are up-to-date and compliant with the latest changes in employment law.

Lauren Pickard, Employment Director at CMP Legal says: “The launch of our Springtime Employment Law Training Workshops and Free Employment Law Health Check is designed to help local businesses and employers keep up to date with the minefield that is employment law. The law on harassment is being updated in Parliament as we speak, with changes due early next year and it is important that employers are prepared for this with robust policies and procedures.

“It is always best to be proactive, rather than reactive when it comes to matters relating to employees. In April 2020, new legislative changes to employment contracts were introduced, however, we are finding that a lot of employers have not updated their employment contracts to comply with these changes, due to it being overshadowed by the Pandemic.

“Many employers have now introduced remote or hybrid working as a result of the Pandemic, but have not updated their employment contracts or policies to reflect this. We want to support local businesses to ensure that they are compliant with the latest changes in employment law.”

Find out more about the full programme of sessions on offer at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/employment-law-training-with-cmp-legal/

CMP Legal supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

CMP Legal - Stacey Pocock & Lauren Pickard

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Three Chesterfield businesses boosted by new recruits

Three businesses in Chesterfield have recently bolstered their ranks with new recruits, adding further growth to their organisations.

Law firm CMP Legal, community-based charity Junction Arts and sustainable packaging firm Robinson PLC have all taken on new staff – showcasing growth and investment in the town across a number of sectors.


CMP Legal announces new Employment Director

Lauren Pickard - CMP Legal

The Chesterfield based law firm that delivers expert services to clients in Derbyshire, Sheffield and across the UK is thrilled to announce the appointment of Lauren Pickard as its new Employment Director.

Lauren is a specialist Employment Law Solicitor and joins CMP Legal from national law firm Knights plc where she worked as a Senior Associate, previously based in Sheffield. She has a wealth of knowledge and employment law experience from managing performance, disciplinary and grievance matters to redundancy and restructuring advice, delivering training, drafting contracts and much more.

Lauren Pickard, Employment Director at CMP Legal says: “I am delighted to join CMP Legal at such an exciting time for the firm in terms of growth. CMP Legal has swiftly established itself as a niche practice offering high quality advice. The lawyers at CMP Legal have a wealth of experience and this, combined with their desire to do things in a dynamic and progressive way, works strongly to the benefit of clients.”

Neil Brown, Co-Founder at CMP Legal says: “Lauren has an excellent reputation in the region and will be a fantastic asset to both our business and our clients. We are delighted to welcome her into our expanding team as we continue to deliver exceptional service to our clients.”


Robinson PLC invests in sales team with two senior appointments

Angela Doyle

Robinson – the manufacturer specialising in value-added custom packaging – has invested in its sales team with two new senior appointments in the UK.

Angela Doyle joins Robinson from Berry Plastics and previously Constantia Group where she worked in the flexibles sector in both the UK and Ireland in commercial sales, primarily in the food and beverage sector. Looking forward to her role as a New Business Development Manager at Robinson, Angela highlighted: “I have a strong technical and commercial skill set, working closely with customers and production on development, problem solving and meeting deadlines.  I have always enjoyed being part of a team, leading innovation and out of the box thinking.”

“Robinsons has a really strong collaborative, welcoming culture and I am looking forward to playing my part in the team, creating new business opportunities and building on the strong company foundations”.

Also joining the team as Business Development Manager is Nick Hudson. His background is in UK manufacture and outsourcing of premium packaging across many substrates.

Nick commented: “I am really looking forward to creating awareness of the company’s commitment to sustainable, innovative rigid box packaging and its high standards of quality and service leading to Robinsons being the first choice for customers”.


Junction Arts announces new Managing Director

Emily Junction Arts

Award-winning participatory arts charity, Junction Arts has appointed Emily Bowman, the current Deputy CEO for The Mighty Creatives, as its new Managing Director.

Emily will join the Chesterfield-based charity on the 1st of April and is tasked with helping the team to deliver an ambitious programme of creative events and initiatives throughout 2023. She will lead the charity to deliver its vision, support the Arts Council England’s ‘Let’s Create’ strategy and will be responsible to the Board on all matters of strategy, policy development and management.

Junction Arts has engaged communities across Bolsover District, North East Derbyshire, Chesterfield and rural areas of the East Midlands for over 45 years.   Following an uplift in National Portfolio Funding (NPO) from the Arts Council until 2026, the charity has aspirations for significant growth and is hoping to embark on a number of exciting partnership projects over the next three years.

Emily is currently the Deputy CEO for The Mighty Creatives, a children and young people’s charity based in Leicester and Arts Council England’s Bridge organisation for the East Midlands.  She has worked in the creative sector for 20 years and at a senior leadership level since 2015. Through her background and training in performance and her work in arts leadership, she has a deep understanding and passion for arts, culture, and creativity, specifically focused on young audiences, with experience in co-producing high-quality programmes that are accessible to all.

She said: “I am thrilled to be joining Junction Arts. I am excited to be leading such a vibrant and dedicated team and will do all I can to continue to grow and develop the organisation, building on its current success and supporting more people to engage, and creativity to thrive across our communities.”

Lucie Maycock, Chair of the Board of Trustees at Junction Arts said: “Emily has all the right experience, skills, and strategic thinking to take on this exciting role. She is passionate about community arts and making a real difference. Our shared values and her experience working with children, young people and communities, developing programmes that support their cultural, personal and professional development, will enhance our new and existing programmes. Helping to make a real impact and take the organisation to the next level.”


CMP Legal, Robinson PLC and Junction Arts support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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New commercial law firm in Chesterfield to bring ‘fresh approach’ to clients

A group of solicitors have joined forces to deliver a fresh approach to clients following the launch of a new Derbyshire law firm.

Solicitors Anna Cattee, Jason Skelton, Neil Brown and Stacey Pocock have pooled together their business legal knowledge to launch CMP Legal at The Bridge Business Centre in Chesterfield.

Anna Cattee qualified as a solicitor in 2011, having previously completed her Legal Practice Course at Nottingham Law School with a distinction.

Neil Brown has been qualified as a solicitor for 29 years. He started his working life at a large international law firm in Birmingham before moving back home to Chesterfield in 1992 and has practised in Chesterfield ever since.

Jason Skelton was born in Chesterfield and has practised in the town for over 30 years so has a wealth of local knowledge and business contacts as well as having considerable commercial, management and compliance experience.

Stacey Pocock studied law at Sheffield Hallam University and began her career in the legal profession in 1999 as a paralegal. Stacey completed the Legal Practice Course at De Montfort University, Leicester and qualified as a solicitor in 2005.

The niche commercial law firm will deliver expert services to clients located in Chesterfield, Sheffield and across the country in areas such as corporate, commercial, dispute resolution and employment. The firm also has a resident notary public for companies and individuals.

Anna said: “Being passionate about delivering our expertise in a clear and concise way, we understood there was a better way of working with improved technology geared for a national reach. Our investment in digital systems, offers clients complete flexibility in the delivery of the services they require.”

“Our approach is that we are understanding of our clients and colleagues needs, and we work closely to support both, whilst being professional yet approachable, strategic advisers.

CMP Legal supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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