Julie Simms takes the position of managing partner for DWF's founding office in Liverpool, succeeding Graham Dagnall, who held the role for the past five years. Julie has been with the firm for 17 years and a partner for the last 13 years. She co-heads a growing team within DWF focussed on the delivery of development related services to public bodies and private sector promoters of nationally and regionally significant regeneration and infrastructure projects.
DWF's new managing partner in Leeds, Andrew Batterton, joined the business in 2021 from DLA Piper and heads the firm's development and infrastructure planning and compulsory purchase practice. Andrew continues to play a key part in the growth of DWF's full service offering to promoters of major development, infrastructure and energy projects. He takes up the position of office managing partner from Jonathan Branton who held the role for the last three years.
Their appointments follow Mike Renshaw's recent appointment as managing partner of DWF's Bristol office.
Julie Simms said: "I am very proud to take on the role of managing partner in Liverpool. I am keen to build on what we have already achieved in the region and collaborate with colleagues and our clients, focusing on the positive role we can play in place based economic regeneration. I am committed to nurturing diverse talent across our business and look forward to continuing to work with organisations in Liverpool and Wirral on a number of our D&I and CSR initiatives."
Andrew Batterton, said: "It's an exciting time to be taking up this position as part of DWF's growth ambitions, given the vital role that our locations will play in providing an attractive and nurturing environment for our colleagues as well as our clients. We plan to build upon DWF's positive culture, core values and ways of doing business, including its market leading commitments to sustainability and ESG as part of our plans to engage with our local economy and wider community."
UK & Ireland regional managing partner at DWF, Hilary Ross, said: "We are delighted to announce the appointment of Julie Simms and Andrew Batterton as our new managing partners in Liverpool and Leeds. They both bring a wealth of experience to their new roles that aligns seamlessly with our purpose and of delivering positive outcomes with our colleagues, clients and communities.
"I want to extend my appreciation to Graham Dagnall and Jonathan Branton, both of whom remain with DWF, for their leadership and invaluable contributions to our Liverpool and Leeds locations."
