Harrison Drury launches training academy

Preston-based law firm Harrison Drury has launched the HD Academy to develop its next generation of lawyers and leaders.

The programme has been developed in a partnership with training and qualifications provider Skillwise and will equip directors, senior managers, and rising stars with an array of people skills and leadership knowledge.

It includes modules on leadership styles, business culture, coaching and mentoring, business improvement, critical thinking and decision making. Those completing the course can register as associate members with the Chartered Management Institute and the Institute of Leadership & Management.

The Academy will be headed up by experienced solicitor and director Amanda Webster and will deliver a dedicated curriculum for new solicitors who have been qualified for up to five years.

Amanda said: "The Academy will give our younger lawyers real focus in their career development. During a legal career, lawyers quickly assume responsibilities in areas such as client relationship management, business development, people management and finance but often don’t receive the training to develop these necessary skills.

"The Academy will enable our people to excel in their chosen area of law while building the essential business skills to reach their potential."

Other features of the Academy include a dedicated knowledge transfer programme that will see Harrison Drury’s senior lawyers mentor its younger solicitors, and a HD Future Forum allowing the firm’s HD Academy members to exchange ideas on the law firm of the future.

John Chesworth, executive chairman, said: "The launch of the Academy and our leadership investment programme is another key milestone in our history.

"The firm and its people have been on an amazing journey together and we are proud of our people development record, which has helped us reach the Sunday Times list of the 'Top 100 Best Small Companies to Work For’ on numerous occasions.

"If we achieve our goal of being the best law firm to work for, our clients will receive outstanding service, our communities will be impacted positively, and Harrison Drury will be contributing to bring about the vision of a community where people feel connected, are fulfilled and become enriched."

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