Joanne Stronach Appointed Managing Director of Cartmell Shepherd

Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors is delighted to announce the appointment of Joanne Stronach as its new Managing Director.

Joanne, who has been with the firm since 2018 as Director and Head of Employment and HR, succeeds Peter Stafford following his retirement at the end of September.

As Managing Director, Joanne will lead the entire Cartmell Shepherd team, which comprises 130 staff across seven offices situated in Carlisle, Penrith, Cockermouth, Brampton, Haltwhistle and Hexham.

Joanne is widely recognised as one of the North’s leading employment lawyers, with 30 years’ experience advising businesses throughout Cumbria and the North East.

Her significant experience, passion for communication and people skills ensure that Joanne is the perfect fit for the position of Managing Director.

“I’m excited to be taking on this new role and grateful to have received the full backing of our Board of Directors,” commented Joanne who is the first woman to become Managing Director at Cartmell Shepherd.

“When I was put forward for the role, having the confidence of the Board and the wider Cartmells team that I am the right person for the job was hugely important to me.”

Joanne becomes Managing Director at a time of significant growth for Cartmell Shepherd, following the acquisition of Nicholson Portnell in Hexham last year and the opening of the firm’s Cockermouth office in 2020.

“Our growth as a firm in recent years, under the leadership of Peter Stafford, has given us a solid foundation to build on going forward. I’m grateful to have worked closely with Peter this year as I’ve prepared for the new job.

Looking ahead, the legal industry is set to evolve rapidly in the coming years and we’re committed to embracing new technologies which will enable us continue delivering the best possible service for clients.

I look forward to working with our dynamic and forward-thinking Board of Directors to both embrace the opportunities and meet the challenges ahead.”

In addition to her responsibilities as Managing Director, Joanne will continue to advise employers, supported by our expert employment law team.