Senior appointment kickstarts law firm's Manchester office launch

Preston-based law firm Harrison Drury has expanded into Manchester, opening a new office and recruiting a top lawyer to head it up. 

The new office, within the Tootal Buildings in Oxford Road, will be lead by Rick Life, formerly of TLT.

Rick will help grow the firm’s Manchester presence alongside fellow corporate lawyer Mark Traynor who was appointed by Harrison Drury in October 2023. The firm expects to make further senior appointments in the coming weeks.

The opening of a Manchester office will grow the firm’s geographic footprint, complementing its six existing offices and 150 staff across Lancashire and Cumbria.

John Chesworth, executive chairman of Harrison Drury, said: “Manchester has grown into a truly global market and one that we want to be part of. Opening a Manchester office brings us closer to our growing client base in the region, strengthens our relationships with the city’s professional community, and gives us access to a UK-leading talent pool.

“We wanted to make sure we had the right people leading the office. Rick and Mark are two exceptional corporate lawyers, and their commercial acumen, experience and relationships will create many opportunities for us.”

Rick, who is recognised by the independent legal guide Chambers and Partners, specialises in mergers and acquisitions and private equity transactions and advises clients across a number of sectors including healthcare, retail and consumer goods, and digital.

Prior to joining TLT, Rick was head of legal at major UK fashion brand Bench and had legal roles with Irwin Mitchell and Addleshaw Goddard.