Using my tenacity and good humour, I ensure that Francis Wilks & Jones runs like clockwork, helping to keep the business on track and achieving consistently outstanding results in its annual Lexcel accreditation.
Having worked in the legal sector for over 20 years, I am an experienced business manager. I started my career in finance, quickly discovering my flair for business management. I have project managed and assisted in successful acquisitions and mergers and provided business advice to SMEs and independent business owners, and sat on project boards for large commercial companies.
Drawing on my strong background in finance, I work hand in hand with our lawyers to ensure effective financial management throughout the firm. My expertise also extends to operations and organisational growth.
I work alongside our managing partner, Andy Wilks, to implement our business and growth strategies. I am also responsible for compliance, procurement, HR and facilities.
Driven and efficient, I get things done, but always with an eye for retaining the values that make FWJ both a great place to work and a great team to work with.
I like to think that I am trusted and respected in equal measure within the firm. I am known as both a champion for everyone’s progress and a steadfast support when needed.
Since 2016 I have provided periodic consultancy support to Nicola, principally assisting with her preparations for her firm’s annual Lexcel re-accreditation audit, as well as working alongside her when she headed up a project to ensure FWJ was ready for the introduction of the GDPR. I quickly learned that Nicola is, even when she is under considerable pressure and working to tight deadlines, the epitome of professionalism, efficiency and courtesy. Her role at FWJ requires her to be an excellent multi-tasker, with a wide-ranging skillset gleaned from the several senior management positions she has held in the legal services sector. She has those qualities in abundance. However, in my view, it is her ability to combine superlative operational expertise with the strategic vision of a partner that makes her an ambassador for her firm. In my estimation, the contribution Nicola has made to the success of her firm in recent years has been very considerable indeed.
Jonathan Fidler, compliance consultant at Legal Compliance Services
