Senior appointments highlight growth across Chesterfield’s key sectors
Chesterfield Champions in the legal, construction and professional services sectors are strengthening their teams through senior appointments and promotions, reflecting continued growth and investment across our town’s economy.
Banner Jones promotes Stacey Davenport to Director amid continued Private Client expansion
Law firm Banner Jones has promoted probate solicitor Stacey Davenport to Director as the firm continues to expand its growing Private Client division across South Yorkshire and Derbyshire.
Stacey, who has been with the firm for 16 years, steps into the leadership role after helping drive the department’s development during a period of significant growth. Alongside advising on complex estate administrations, she leads the firm’s enquiry team and plays a key role in mentoring and developing junior lawyers.
Stacey specialises in probate and estate administration, advising clients on matters ranging from grants of probate through to the administration of high-value and complex estates. She is particularly experienced in cases involving substantial property portfolios, drawing on her earlier career within the firm’s property team.
Her promotion comes as Banner Jones continues to strengthen its Private Client presence in Sheffield alongside its long-established Chesterfield office. The department has recruited 10 new team members in recent months in response to growing demand for advice across wills, probate, trusts, powers of attorney and inheritance tax planning.
Kathryn Wheeldon, Head of Private Client at Banner Jones, said:
“Stacey’s promotion reflects both her technical expertise and the leadership role she has played in the continued growth of our Private Client team. She is highly respected by clients and colleagues alike and has been instrumental in helping us build a strong, modern Private Client offering across the region.”
Stacey Davenport, Director at Banner Jones, added:
“Private Client work is about supporting people through important moments in their lives, and that’s something I’ve always been passionate about. I’m proud to be part of such a strong team and look forward to continuing to develop our services and support our clients.”
BRM strengthens team with newly qualified employment law solicitor
BRM has strengthened its employment law team after former paralegal Jade Taylor qualified as a solicitor following two years of training with the firm.
Jade initially joined BRM as an employment law paralegal before being promoted to trainee solicitor in June 2024. After two years of training and development, she qualified in June 2026 and now works with clients across a range of sectors on employment law and HR matters.
The firm’s support has played an important role in her development, with opportunities to build confidence through client work, presentations and networking.
Jade Taylor, Solicitor at BRM, said:
“I knew I wanted to qualify as a solicitor in employment law, and BRM supported me every step of the way. The team has given me the confidence and opportunities to develop my skills, and I’m looking forward to continuing to build my career here.”
BRM recently launched its BRM Futures programme, a structured early careers initiative designed to support trainee solicitors through a two-year development pathway across multiple legal disciplines.
Amy Hallam, Director and Head of Employment Law at BRM, said:
“We’re incredibly proud to see Jade qualify as a solicitor. She has shown real commitment and enthusiasm throughout her training, and is a fantastic example of how our development programmes support future talent.”
Willmott Dixon appoints senior business development manager to support East Midlands growth
Willmott Dixon has appointed Katie Shooter as senior business development manager for the East Midlands, supporting its continued growth across our region.
Katie will oversee the East Midlands area, including Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Northamptonshire.
Focusing on strengthening existing relationships and developing new partnerships across the region, Katie will support delivery across sectors including education, residential, healthcare, leisure, defence and commercial.
Peter Owen, Managing Director for Willmott Dixon in the Midlands, said:
“Katie’s appointment reflects our commitment to growing our presence in the East Midlands and building even stronger relationships with the customers and communities we serve. Her experience and relationship-led approach make her a natural fit for our team.”
Katie Shooter, Senior Business Development Manager at Willmott Dixon, added:
“I’m ready to make a difference, not only for customers but also the communities we work in. Whether it’s new schools or new homes, there are opportunities to connect with people and create a tangible impact.
The culture at Willmott Dixon is unique, which is reflected in its success across the Midlands. I hope to build on that by strengthening our links to developments across the region and contributing to the company’s continued momentum.”
Find details on business support available by visiting: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/
Banner Jones, BRM and Willmott Dixon are a few of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.
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