For barrister Charlie Greenwood, Emsleys Solicitors was always a part of his life even as a child, as his father Andrew spent his entire career with the Leeds firm.
Now it has come full circle, with Charlie ‘coming home’ to take over the running of the business and step into the role of managing director. He takes over leadership responsibilities from Judith Hogg, who moves into the role of finance director.
Andrew joined the firm in 1984 where he qualified as a solicitor and become owner and director. His son, meanwhile, made his own way in the law, qualifying as a barrister and building a successful commercial litigation practice with Exchange Chambers.
Charlie said Emsleys was a firm he had ‘grown up’ with and that it was a privilege to lead the firm and its sister estate agency.
‘It is an honour to take on the role of managing director at such an exciting time for Emsleys,’ he said. ‘Judith and my father leave a fantastic legacy in operational and financial strength, and I am looking forward to working alongside them to build on that legacy. The firm is in an excellent position and is now primed for growth to both its current practice areas along with new areas of legal services which I am keen to develop.’
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The firm says this generational transition mirrors its own commitment to serving generations of clients in Yorkshire since its origins in the 19th century.
Andrew, who has also served as a deputy district judge since 2001, said the firm will thrive under new leadership.
He added: ‘Emsleys has built its reputation on looking after families across generations. It is a source of immense pride to see this same ethos reflected within our own leadership team. Charlie brings fresh perspectives, strong legal acumen, and a deep dedication to our core values, making him ideally placed to guide the practice into its next chapter.’
According the firm’s accounts for the year ended April 2025, it had 37 employees – a figure which had dropped from 53 the year before after the sale of the personal injury business to Fletchers.
Emsleys had net assets as of April 2025 of £1.5m including £858,000 in cash reserves.
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