From 1 April, Rachel Stewart and Jon Rathbone will take over as Joint Managing Directors at Hughes Paddison, following the retirement of long-serving Managing Director Jane Brothwood.
Both Rachel and Jon have been instrumental to the firm’s growth, with Rachel leading the Litigation team and Jon leading the Corporate and Commercial team. Their joint leadership will combine their enthusiasm, complementary skills and shared vision to take the firm forward. This joint leadership means Rachel and Jon can stay connected to their clients, continue delivering outstanding legal services, and build on the momentum of recent growth.
Reflecting on her new role, Rachel said:
“Having worked with Jane for nearly 16 years, I’m thrilled to continue her leadership of a forward-looking, caring law firm, where our staff are valued as individuals, and where we are all passionate and committed to excellent client service. It is wonderful to have the opportunity to share the role with Jon Rathbone. We have complementary skill sets and a shared vision for the firm. Together with our talented and committed directors and wider staff, we hope to take the firm from strength to strength.”
Jon adds:
“I’ve been fortunate to work alongside Jane for many years and have learned so much from her warm, supportive, and inspiring leadership. Her dedication to both clients and staff has set the standard for everything we do at Hughes Paddison, and I wish her a very happy and fulfilling retirement. I’m excited to embrace this new role alongside Rachel and to build on the firm’s success. Together with our talented team, I look forward to what the next chapter brings for Hughes Paddison and our clients.”
The firm also pays tribute to Jane Brothwood, who retires after nearly 20 years at the helm. Jane leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, care, and a genuine commitment to both clients and staff. Known for her charismatic, fiercely loyal style and great humour, she has shaped the culture of Hughes Paddison and will be sadly missed by the team. Jane joined Hughes Paddison in 1994, having previously been a partner at a Central London practice, and with over 30 years of dedicated service to clients and colleagues, she will be fondly remembered for the lasting mark she has made on the firm. She will continue to support the business as a consultant, sharing her experience and insight with the team.
With Rachel and Jon now leading the firm, Hughes Paddison looks set to enter an exciting new chapter while continuing the values and culture Jane established.
