Pictured: Mike Seabrook, non executive director at national law firm, Gateley

National law firm, Gateley has appointed a new non executive director to its English management board. Mike Seabrook has joined the firm to provide strategic guidance as the firm enters a new phase in its development and looks to build on its entry into the list of the UK's top 50 national law firms.

Mike recently retired from Eversheds where he was a corporate partner for more than 20 years and a board member for 13 of those. During his time with Eversheds, the firm expanded from one office based in Birmingham to an international practice with 45 offices and turnover of £355 million.

Earlier this year, Gateley entered into the top 50 law firm rankings by revenue for the first time. One of only two new entrants, the company's position in the table followed a successful 12 months where the firm had achieved a significant increase in turnover attributed to the opening of its Manchester office in July 2010. At the same time Gateley rose up the Experian Corpfin M&A and IPO UK league tables to number 8 compared to a position at number 20 in the previous year. The league tables rank the top financial and legal advisers based on number of transactions and total deal values.

Commenting on Mike's appointment, Gateley's senior partner, Michael Ward said: "This is an important time for the firm as we reach the next stage in our development. It's been a busy 18 months but like most we have been navigating our way through tough market conditions. However, we have remained positive, maintained our teams and have maximised opportunities for growth, such as our entrance into the Manchester market last year.

"As we continue to grow and build on our top 50 status we have ambitious plans and it's vital that we meet the strategic challenges we will face as we develop as a business.  We know our people are our best asset and we have always invested in high calibre recruits to ensure we can drive the business forward. Mike has an excellent track record and is well regarded within the market, we are looking forward to working with him and I'm sure we will benefit from the extensive experience he will bring in this advisory role."

Mike Seabrook added: "It's an exciting time to join Gateley and at such a pivotal stage in its development. I'm keen to set myself some new challenges at this stage in my career and over the years I have been impressed by the firm's determination to get to the position they are in today, as a national law firm. 

"It is clear they haven't compromised when it comes to offering commercially focused, solutions-driven advice that meets the needs of their clients and is built around an in-depth understanding of each of the local markets in which they operate. The firm has a strong platform on which to build and it's a great opportunity to be involved in this next phase of its growth."

Prior to joining Eversheds, Mike was a corporate partner at Needham & James and has previously held roles with Clifford Turner and Lovells. He holds a number of non executive roles including as a director of Steelite International Limited and as a Trustee to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham Charity. 

In his spare time Mike is a keen sportsman and spectator, he enjoys golf and has played cricket for Knowle and Dorridge.  He is also a lifelong Birmingham City FC supporter.

For more information about Gateley, please visit their website here: www.gateleyuk.com