Michael Hanley steps down as managing partner of Wilsons after 19 years of service

On 1^st April Michael stepped down as managing partner to be replaced in that role by Matthew Davies. Matthew has in turn been replaced as Head of Immigration by Anita Vasisht.In an end of week email to staff Michael said;“After nearly 19 years as managing partner I am formally stepping down from that role. It has been my absolute privilege and highlight of my career to be the managing partner in such a fantastic firm. Looking back I cannot really believe that I had that position for so long. Things never stood still for any length of time and I always felt “I was learning on the job”. I look back with enormous gratitude for these wonderful years. The interaction with so many amazing colleagues (past and present) has been a truly ennobling experience. My special thanks to each and every one of my partners. This firm has been built in a very real sense by everyone who has worked here, but I hope nobody will object, if I single out Lesley Kennedy, our practice secretary, for a particular thank you. Thank you Lesley for your unwavering presence, always calm, wise and kind.I am continuing with my position as Senior Partner for the next 12 months, in order to support and consolidate the transition that is underway.From 1 April 2020 Matthew will be the firm’s Managing Partner, and as outgoing managing partner I wish him every success in this new role. The firm is run in a collaborative way at a senior level and I know that Matthew will be fully supported as he leads the management of the firm, as I have been supported myself by our colleagues in the membership”.We are all incredibly grateful to Michael for the years of leadership he has given to the firm and we look forward to benefitting from his wisdom and experience as he continues to be our Senior Partner.On his new role Matthew said;“It is an honour to follow in Michael’s footsteps. He has provided true leadership and is a real friend. Big shoes to fill indeed. All the people at Wilsons are amazing and I look forward to helping them thrive and achieve professional success as we continue on our mission, believing in justice for all”.