Press Release

LAW firm Shoosmiths has appointed Catherine Williams to head up its Milton Keynes office.

Catherine, a real estate partner and head of the law firm’s living sector, has taken up the post from commercial partner Robin Webb who spent four years in the role. Robin is moving on to become national head of the firm’s commercial group following David Jackson’s appointment as Shoosmiths’ CEO, with effect from 1 May 2022.

Shoosmiths has operated in Milton Keynes since 2000, with Catherine now leading more than 114 staff at its 100 Avebury Boulevard office, which it relocated to in March 2020.

Catherine joined Shoosmiths in 2015, becoming partner in 2016 and will continue to head-up the firm’s living sector – a role that recently saw her successfully lead the team to securing a place on Taylor Wimpey’s legal panel in England and Wales.

Catherine Williams, partner and head of Shoosmiths’ Milton Keynes office, said:

“Milton Keynes is a strategically important base for Shoosmiths and its work across the UK. It’s a privilege to be appointed as the new head of office and I’m looking forward to what’s coming next, while nurturing the legacy created by Robin who successfully led us through a relocation and expansion - all done during a global pandemic.

“Our new office reflects Shoosmiths’ values and the fantastic people that work within. It’s also a symbol of the firm’s ambition and commitment to Milton Keynes. Our aim is to continue growing the firm’s presence in the region, while adding to our talented team and client roster that already features companies such as Mercedes-Benz and Travelodge.”

Robin Webb, partner and outgoing head of Shoosmiths’ Milton Keynes office, said:

“We’ve built a highly-successful office and team in Milton Keynes, which with Catherine at the helm, is well positioned for future growth. In her role as real estate partner and living sector lead, Catherine makes things happen and I have no doubt she will thrive in the role of office head.

“While also embarking on my own new journey at Shoosmiths, I’ll look back on my time as office head proudly for what the team has achieved, both in terms of the work delivered for our clients, but also the positive impact we’ve had on Milton Keynes’ businesses and our local community.”

Catherine will be supported by Shoosmiths partner Claire Checketts who takes on the role of deputy head of office.