Over to you - Tony Wentworth will replace Jane Armitage as MD at Jacksons Law Firm .
CHANGE AT THE TOP
Jane steps down at Jacksons Law Firm
Tees Businesswoman of the Year Jane Armitage will bring an end to seven “ fantastic ” years as managing partner of Jacksons Law Firm this summer .
We caught up with Jane and the man stepping into her role , Tony Wentworth , as well as Jacksons ’ incoming head of corporate and commercial , Peter Robinson , to see what the future holds .
WORDS : PAUL FRASER PICTURES : TOM BANKS
Jane Armitage , outgoing managing partner
Team effort - Jane Armitage .
You must be so proud of what has been achieved since taking on the role in 2014 ... “ When I became managing partner , there were a lot of things that needed improving , our case management system was out of date and we didn ’ t have efficient management structures in place . We were a big business and we urgently needed to run ourselves like a big business .
“ The firm had also become a little lazy about its profile , resting on its laurels , so I have worked hard at re-addressing that and also on enhancing our engagement with the community and with local charitable organisations .
“ However , I can ’ t claim the credit for doing all of this myself . Being a managing partner is not about being on your own . It has been a team effort between myself , my fellow partners and all of our staff . We have made all these changes together .
“ The firm looks completely different from how it was when I took on the role , even more so than when I first joined the firm in 2004 . I do feel that has been a journey we have all gone on together . It has been a team effort .”
Why is now the right time to retire from the Limited Liability Partnership ? “ Less stress ! I have just turned 60 and my husband , Paul , has just retired , so it has been my intention for some time to work slightly less at this point .
“ I will still be involved . Jacksons is like a third child I can ’ t let go of and it is getting harder to let go as this month goes by . But I also recognise that every so often a business needs new ideas and new blood . I will be stepping down still loving the job and that is important .
“ I have elderly parents in the southwest and kids in London , so it ’ s time for a bit more family time and walking in the countryside . I would love to travel more too , if restrictions rules eventually allow .”
It sounds really important for you to stay involved ... “ The people of Jacksons mean a lot to me . Tees Valley and the North-East means a lot to me . I don ’ t want to give that up . I don ’ t want to completely retire and whatever I can do to help Tony going forward is important .
“ I will be staying on as a consultant three days a week , working with clients , maintaining relationships and making sure those remain strong . I will provide management support if I am asked to and technical support to the commercial property team .”
98 | Tees Business