Penningtons Manches Cooper Reappoints CEO Helen Drayton for Second Term

Penningtons Manches Cooper, a prominent UK law firm, has reappointed Helen Drayton as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for a second three-year term, effective October 1, 2025. This unanimous decision follows a year marked by substantial growth and strategic achievements, making it the firm's 16th consecutive year of growth.

The firm reported a 7% increase in revenue, reaching £120 million, while profits surged by 18.4% to £42 million, and profit per equity partner (PEP) rose by 25% to £555,000. "Our results reflect the power of a purposeful strategy," stated Drayton, emphasizing the importance of delivering meaningful outcomes for clients and fostering an agile and collaborative work environment.

Drayton, who has been at the helm since 2022, has prioritized an integrated service offering across the firm's four divisions: Business Services, Dispute Resolution, Private Individuals, and Real Estate. This approach aims to enhance client services particularly in core and growth sectors, both domestically and internationally.

The firm has developed a comprehensive 2023–2026 Strategic Plan that emphasizes a client-centric approach, which was crafted by a restructured Executive and Strategy Board. This plan focuses on deepening client relationships through a new key client program designed to drive innovation and service quality.

In terms of workforce development, the firm has revamped its training academy for associates and launched a 'future leaders' program. Additionally, it has adopted the DCM Insights Activator Advantage training for partners and introduced LinkedIn Sales Navigator across the firm. Significant updates to family leave policies were also implemented, offering 26 weeks of paid leave for all parents, extending up to 52 weeks total, and additional support for fertility treatments and long-term caregiving needs.

Since the implementation of the new strategic plan, Penningtons Manches Cooper has appointed 23 new partners through strategic lateral hires and promotions, reflecting its commitment to align with the evolving needs of clients. The firm's expansion includes a new hub in Antibes, France, targeting the burgeoning Mediterranean yacht sector, and an enhanced shipping and commodities offering in Singapore following recent partner hires.

The firm has also revitalized its responsible business program, establishing a new committee to oversee commitments to environmental sustainability, diversity, equity, and social impact initiatives. Among its long-term partnerships is a five-year collaboration with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust.

In the realm of real estate, the firm successfully modernized its UK offices to promote hybrid working and collaboration, with plans to extend these enhancements to international locations.

Major client wins include significant mandates in cross-border aviation and high-profile family law cases, demonstrating the firm's capability to handle complex matters. Drayton expressed her enthusiasm for continuing to lead the firm, stating, "We’ve laid the foundations—and now we’re accelerating. It’s a genuine privilege to continue leading such a talented and ambitious team. I'm looking forward to helping shape the next chapter of our journey, really harnessing the successes of the last three years with a clear focus on what matters most to our clients and people."

In summary, Helen Drayton's reappointment comes at a pivotal moment as Penningtons Manches Cooper seeks to build on its past successes and navigate the complexities of the legal landscape ahead, reaffirming its commitment to client service and responsible business practices.