North East law firm Swinburne Maddison LLP has announced a series of promotions across its team. Diane Hall, from the commercial property team, and James Curran, from the commercial litigation team, have both been promoted to managing associate. Claire Wilson, Kaye Cunningham, and Sarah Laird have been promoted to associate within the dispute resolution team, reflecting their growing expertise.
Laura Murphy has been appointed head of the private client department. She joined in 2025 as a managing associate and has been widely praised for her leadership during her interim role. The firm has also introduced the new role of senior managing associate. Those appointed include Abigail Zuk, Catherine Lowther, Charlotte Excell, Craig Foot, Laura Murphy, Lewis Brown, and Sharney Randhawa.
Jonathan Moreland, managing partner, said: "As our firm continues to grow, it is vital that our career structure evolves alongside it. These promotions recognise not only individual excellence, but also the leadership, commitment and professionalism that underpin our success as a firm."
Knight Frank appoints Gavin Walker
Property consultancy Knight Frank's Newcastle office has appointed Gavin Walker as senior surveyor to support demand for building consultancy services. With 10 years of experience, he will manage construction projects and carry out building and dilapidation surveys. He previously worked at Silverstone Building Consultancy, Lambert Smith Hampton, and Hollis.
Ian Tew, office head and building consultancy lead, said: "Building Consultancy is a key growth area for Knight Frank. We are extremely busy working on some major projects for international clients with property assets in the North East. Gavin’s a great addition to the team and we’re actively recruiting for more building surveyors."
CECA NE Foundations Group appoints Lauren Parsons as chair
The Civil Engineering Contractors Association North East (CECA NE) Foundations Group has appointed Lauren Parsons, a project manager at Seymour Civil Engineering, as its new chair. She succeeds Matthew Tetley and Ben Adcock. The group promotes civil engineering and construction careers to current and future generations.
Ms Parsons said: "The Foundations Group is a fantastic platform to support young people entering, or considering civil engineering and we have a real opportunity to continue growing our outreach, which is essential if we are to fill the skills gap that is becoming an ever-pressing challenge for our sector."
British Esports appoints Alice Dearing as co-vice chair
The British Esports Federation, based in Sunderland, has appointed British former Olympic swimmer Alice Dearing as its new co-vice chair. She has been part of the Advisory Board since September 2022 and has spoken at the Be The Change Summit. Ms Dearing is the first black woman to swim for Team GB at an Olympic Games, competing in the 10km marathon at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Ms Dearing said: "Gaming and esports has been such an important part of my life from an early age, and I am delighted to be able to play my part in the journey British Esports is on to gain greater recognition for British esports athletes and teams."
Energy Solicitors promotes Ryan McDonald to partner
Newcastle law firm Energy Solicitors Ltd (ESL) has promoted Ryan McDonald to partner. He joined the firm in March 2023, shortly after it was established, following eight years at another law firm. A Northumbria University graduate, he has played a key role in the business's development.
Senior partner Victoria Myers said: "Ryan has been an integral part of operations since he joined us back in 2023. He has been my right hand man for the past three years and has been an invaluable asset to the team."
