One of the North East’s leading law firms, Swinburne Maddison, has announced the appointment of two new partners as it continues to expand its leadership team and deepen its specialist expertise.
The firm, which recently took home Law Firm of the Year at the Northern Law Awards 2025, its third win in the category, has named Jenny Wade as Partner and Head of Commercial, and Elizabeth (Ellie) Gibbison as Partner and Head of Private Client.
The appointments come during a period of sustained growth for the firm, which now employs over 90 people and recently unveiled a refreshed brand identity under the message: “A contemporary law firm rooted in tradition.”
Jenny Wade joins Swinburne Maddison with a wealth of experience from previous roles at several reputable Newcastle law firms. At Swinburne Maddison, she will lead the development of the firms’ commercial services offering, working alongside Partner and Head of the Corporate team, Martyn Tennant.
The move forms part of a strategic plan to expand the firm’s commercial offering and to further support its Tier One-ranked Corporate and Commercial team, which has held its Legal 500 ranking for nine consecutive years.
Jenny Wade commented:
“I’m delighted to be joining Swinburne Maddison at such an exciting time. The firm has a fantastic reputation for client service and innovation, and I’m looking forward to building the Commercial team and exploring new opportunities to support our clients.”
Jenny’s appointment brings the team to 13, positioning it as one of the largest corporate and commercial teams in the region.
Ellie Gibbison joins as Head of Private Client from the Newcastle office of a national law firm, where she built the Private Client offering from the ground up and led the team to multiple award successes.
Ellie’s role sees her advising clients on the full suite of private client matters including complex wealth protection, UK estate and succession planning. Over the years, she has worked with a wide range of clients, from business owners and high-profile individuals in sport, media, and fashion, to high-net-worth families, individuals with capacity issues, and lottery winners.
She is known for her collaborative approach, often working closely with colleagues, financial advisers, and accountants to deliver holistic, tailored planning for individuals and families. She brings with her a strong focus on mentoring, development, and team growth.
Ellie Gibbison said:
“I’m excited and proud to be joining a team with such a strong foundation and excellent reputation in the North East of England. I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide variety of clients over the years, and I’m passionate about helping them protect what matters most. Whether it’s planning for the future, navigating complex family dynamics, or preserving wealth across generations, it’s incredibly rewarding to be part of that journey.”
Her appointment takes the team to 10 people and increases the number of STEP qualified lawyers in the team, further strengthening the firm’s expertise in this area.
Managing Partner Jonathan Moreland said the appointments reflect the firm’s commitment to both technical excellence and cultural fit.
“These appointments are about building our team with people who share our values and bring the technical expertise needed to support our clients in complex matters,” he said.
“Jenny and Ellie are both exceptional lawyers and leaders, and we’re delighted to welcome them to Swinburne Maddison.”
The firm’s continued investment in people, technology, and brand, alongside its growing presence across the North East from Newcastle to Teesside, signals a confident next chapter for one of the region’s most respected legal practices.
