Leading North East law firm for businesses, Muckle LLP, has announced the appointment of a new finance director.
Claire Long has joined the independent commercial law firm following a successful career at Procter & Gamble, where she was an associate finance director. In her new role, Claire will support Muckle LLP’s continued focus on efficiency, excellent service and strategic growth, taking over the reins from long-serving finance director, Ann Cummersdale, who is set to retire after 21 successful years at the firm.
Speaking on her appointment, Claire said: “I am absolutely delighted to join Muckle at such as exciting time in its growth. It’s clear that the firm is a fantastic place to work and I am thrilled to be supporting the management team in developing and executing its growth strategy, as well as leading the finance team and working with all areas of the business to improve efficiency and client service.”
The appointment comes after Muckle promoted five lawyers to equity partners to inject fresh ideas and energy into its business plans. The firm has since reported top line growth of 5% for the year ending April 2018 – a trend that has continued with strong results anticipated for 2019.
Managing partner, Jason Wainwright, said: “We are delighted to announce Claire’s appointment. Claire has a track record in leading site organisational strategy and ensuring businesses perform efficiently and provide what clients need, by employing talented people and investing in modern technologies and infrastructure.”
“As a forward thinking independent law firm, Muckle understands that businesses expect the best service and the best value, which is why we continue to invest in innovation and in developing and hiring highly skilled, commercial and creative people.
“In Claire, we have intentionally recruited a finance director who does not have a typical legal background and brings a wealth of knowledge of driving efficiencies from outside our industry, which will be crucial in helping us to continue to provide a service at competitive pricing that intuitively supports our clients’ commercial goals.
“I would also like to thank Ann, our outgoing finance director, for all that she has done for this firm during her many years of loyal service. Ann’s commitment, advice and support has been invaluable to everyone here and she leaves us on a high, having played such an influential role in shaping the hugely successful business Muckle is today.”
