Law firm appoints new deputy head

Legal 500-listed law firm Aaron & Partners has announced a key appointment in Shropshire, with Joanne Parsons named as the new deputy head of its Shrewsbury office.

A highly-experienced partner within the firm’s real estate team, the move will see Joanne support Hugh Strickland who is the head of the firm’s Shrewsbury office and has held the position for a number of years.

The move marks a renewed push to accelerate the firm's growth and expand its legal services across Shropshire and the wider West Midlands. Joanne, a member of the Law Society’s Property Section Committee, and Conveyancing & Land Law Committee, brings significant experience to the role, having previously held leadership roles in the residential real estate teams at both Thorntons Solicitors and Linder Myers.

With more than 25 years’ legal experience, Joanne has built an outstanding reputation for her work in residential conveyancing and development matters, while also playing a key role in developing talent, managing people, and supporting strategic growth. 

She combines technical expertise with a clear understanding of the Shropshire property market, and her appointment reflects both her strong track record as a property lawyer and her proven ability to lead teams, develop client relationships and support the wider ambitions of the firm.

Former deputy head Stephen Taylor will step back from his office managerial duties to focus on his role as a dispute resolution partner in Shrewsbury, representing regional and national clients in complex commercial and property disputes, as well as his role as the firm’s money laundering reporting officer. 

Joanne said: "I’m proud to call Shropshire my home, and I am passionate about the community and the businesses that thrive here. Stepping into the role of deputy head is a fantastic opportunity to work alongside Hugh to drive our Shrewsbury office forward.

"We have an exceptionally talented team here, and my focus will be on growth – expanding our reach, strengthening our client relationships, and ensuring we remain the go-to legal partner in the region."

Hugh said: "Jo's energy, local market expertise, and commitment to client excellence make her the perfect fit to help lead the office into its next chapter, with some really exciting plans in the pipeline.

“I also want to extend my sincere thanks to Stephen Taylor for his brilliant support in the role. While Stephen is stepping back from management, he remains an integral part of the fabric here in Shrewsbury, and his continued presence ensures our dispute resolution offering remains as robust as ever. Together, our focus is firmly on the future and scaling up our operations."

The leadership transition highlights Aaron & Partners’ ongoing commitment to investing in its Shropshire location, situated at Oxon Business Park, as the firm experiences increasing demand for both its commercial and private client services.

Pictured: Joanne Parsons and Hugh Strickland