Phil Hourigan Business & Practice Development Director

Phil Hourigan is the Business & Practice Development Director at Swinburne Maddison, playing a crucial role in driving new business, strengthening client relationships, and providing strategic analysis to support the firm’s growth and evolution. Working closely with the management team, he helps shape the firm’s business strategy, ensuring it is structured for both present success and future expansion.

Phil’s journey with Swinburne Maddison began in 2022, following a longstanding relationship with the firm. Having worked closely with them for over 25 years as their first bank manager, he developed a deep understanding of the business and saw an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to its continued success.

With extensive experience in change management, Phil spent a significant portion of his career at RBS Group, where he served as Area Director in Commercial Banking across the North East and Cumbria. His tenure there saw him establish a commercial team in Scotland and lead strategic downsizing and restructuring to meet business needs, equipping him with invaluable expertise in team-building and business transformation.

In 2021, Phil pursued a new challenge as Managing Director of a chain of garden centres. While his passion for gardening played a role in this venture, his primary focus was on business operations—managing a large team, leading a major recruitment drive, and implementing a sustainable business structure to support future growth.

A leader and mentor throughout his career, Phil has been responsible for managing large teams, from running profit-and-loss divisions at RBS Group to overseeing a 170-strong workforce in his previous role. At Swinburne Maddison, he has contributed significantly to the firm’s growth by recruiting top talent at all levels, from partners and directors to key lawyers and support staff.

Phil is deeply committed to developing the next generation of leaders. He sees talent retention and professional development as equally important as attracting new hires. His mentorship and coaching efforts support aspiring partners in honing their skills and preparing for future leadership roles.

At Swinburne Maddison, Phil is instrumental in developing and executing the firm’s business plan. His role encompasses:

• Establishing a robust structure to support both immediate and long-term business objectives.
• Identifying and recruiting top talent to complement the firm’s exceptional team.
• Contributing to a positive work environment where people can perform at their best.
• Expanding and deepening relationships with clients and contacts to support business growth.
• Ensuring that all initiatives align with the firm’s core values: Trust, Care, Collaboration, and Agility.

A significant milestone in Phil’s tenure has been the successful launch and firm-wide adoption of these core values. He engaged extensively with colleagues to understand their personal values and motivations, shaping a shared vision that underpins the firm’s culture. He actively embodies these principles, ensuring they guide his decisions and interactions daily.

Phil has also played a pivotal role in securing new business opportunities, particularly through tender processes, winning key positions on banking and finance panels and social housing projects. His extensive network and strong regional relationships generate valuable opportunities for the firm and its people.

Beyond his role at Swinburne Maddison, Phil is actively involved in charitable and community initiatives. He serves as Chairman of The Dunelm Foundation, a network of Durham professionals that has raised over £100,000 for various charities through its annual fundraising dinner.

A seasoned host, Phil has led approximately 150 dinners and sporting events, interviewing high-profile figures such as David Miliband, Sir Tim Rice, Kate Adie CBE DL, Rafa Benitez, and Jordan Pickford.

Additionally, Phil is a committee member for Longhirst Open Gardens, where he opens his own gardens to raise funds for local causes—combining his business acumen with his personal passion for horticulture.

With a wealth of experience, a strong commitment to people development, and an unwavering dedication to Swinburne Maddison’s success, Phil continues to be a driving force in shaping the firm’s future.