Two key businesses in Tyneside, UNW and Irwin Mitchell, have announced significant office expansions, marking a pivotal step in their growth strategies.
These expansions are set to accommodate growing teams and reinforce their commitment to the region, fostering further development in their respective fields.
Expansion of Irwin Mitchell
Law firm Irwin Mitchell has demonstrated its commitment to the North East by expanding into new office spaces, complementing several new appointments. Operating in the region for 21 years, the firm has relocated to Wellbar Central after acquiring Silk Family Law earlier this year. This move signifies a strategic advancement for Irwin Mitchell within a crucial market.
Now settled in a full-floor office space at the Gallowgate building, Irwin Mitchell has undertaken a multi-year lease, moving more than 100 staff members. The company has seized this opportunity to enhance its organisational capacity through strategic appointments and promotions. Among these are Kate Nicklin, who rejoins as a legal director, and Justina Molloy, who has transitioned from the Cambridge office to contribute to the Newcastle team as a legal director.
UNW Expands Citygate II Presence
Meanwhile, the independent chartered accountancy and advisory firm, UNW, has expanded significantly in the neighbouring Citygate II building to accommodate future growth. The expansion enhances the firm’s footprint by more than 35%, transitioning from a 7,200 square foot office established in 2008 to occupying the entire 11,000 square foot second floor.
This substantial increase in space supports the creation of additional roles, including 15 graduate and apprentice positions scheduled for September. Chris Wilson, partner and head of corporate finance, remarked on the firm’s commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive working environment.
Commitment to Growth and Advancement
Irwin Mitchell’s regional managing partner, Lucy Nicol, commented that the North East remains a core area of focus for the firm. The larger office space, coupled with their recent acquisition, affirm their dedication to providing a broader range of services across northern England and driving further growth.
In her words: “The North East continues to be one of our core areas of focus and our new, larger office space, coupled with the acquisition of Silk Family Law demonstrates this remains the case.” This reiterates the company’s broader strategy for continuous advancement.
Lucy Nicol also highlighted that Irwin Mitchell is positioned for future success, ready to collaborate with colleagues and communities over the next two decades.
UNW’s Vision for a Dynamic Work Environment
The expansion at UNW reflects an investment in infrastructure tailored to support the firm’s growth ambitions. Chris Wilson emphasised the importance of meeting the needs of a growing team while providing a thriving work environment.
Wilson added: “We’re creating a great place to work here at UNW. From the supportive, transparent, and inclusive culture that exists, right through to the high-quality training and development opportunities we provide.”
These enhancements underscore UNW’s commitment to recruiting and retaining talent, enabling the firm to continue building on its recent achievements.
Strategic Location Choices
The strategic locations chosen by both firms not only enhance operational capacity but also facilitate better service delivery to their clients. Irwin Mitchell’s choice of Wellbar Central and UNW’s selection of Citygate II underscore a strategic commitment to their respective sectors.
For Irwin Mitchell, the Newcastle location aligns with their objective to provide extensive legal services in the region. Likewise, UNW’s expansion is intended to bolster their business advisory capabilities.
Future Prospects and Community Involvement
Both firms see these expansions as pivotal in supporting their long-term strategies and community engagement plans. By enlarging their premises, they are better positioned to contribute positively to the local economy.
These moves are seen as investments not just in their businesses, but in their potential to nurture and develop regional talent. In doing so, they affirm their roles as proactive contributors to the North East business landscape.
Concluding Thoughts
The expansion of office spaces by Irwin Mitchell and UNW underscores their shared vision for growth and community engagement. With enhanced facilities and strategic appointments, both firms are well-prepared to seize future opportunities within Tyneside and beyond.
In conclusion, the expansion efforts by UNW and Irwin Mitchell illustrate their dedication to growth and regional engagement, enhancing their service capabilities.
These strategic expansions place both firms in a strong position to influence their sectors and support the Tyneside community effectively.
