HR firm makes key development appointment

Sonia Hanson has been appointed business development manager by employment law, HR and health and safety firm AfterAthena.

Joining from global professional services firm Alvarez & Marsal, Sonia brings more than 15 years of experience in legal and professional services.

Her role with AfterAthena, part of Preston headquartered law practice Napthens Group, will focus on developing new client relationships across the North West of England.

She has also been tasked with raising the profile of the firm, and helping organisations access practical and tailored employment law and HR support.

Sonia is the second person to join AfterAthena as part of the firm’s strategy to support its growth into mid-market clients, working alongside Denise Finlay who joined in 2025 with 27 years of experience in sales and business development.

Chris Boyle, partner and head of AfterAthena, said: “As we continue to grow our client base, Sonia’s outstanding expertise and experience will prove invaluable in initiating, developing and maintaining relationships and heightening awareness of what we do.”

Clients of AfterAthena include Fitness First, Booths, Fresenius Kabi, Thwaites, English Football League and N Brown PLC.