A trio of key specialist appointments will help drive strategic expansion at WHN Solicitors.
Head cashier Karen Trafford, IT manager Paul Medcalfe, and conveyancing solicitor Joanne Haselden have recently taken up their new positions at the offices in Rawtenstall and Accrington.
Michael Shroot, director at WHN Solicitors, said: “Karen, Paul and Joanne bring specialist expertise to diverse areas of our practice, but share common ground in their commitment to helping to build the WHN brand across Lancashire.
“I am confident they will enjoy productive and successful careers as the firm continues to grow, while further improving commercial efficiency. Their appointments come at an exciting time for the firm as we continue to invest in developing the business.”
Karen Trafford, aged 50, is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day running of the Rawtenstall-based accounts team, which manages accounts for the whole practice.
Born and bred in Preston, Karen was recruited from Jackson Accounts and Bookkeeping Services, where she looked after a number of legal practices. Previously she worked at Walker Smith Way Legal, which merged with Slater and Gordon.
Karen has worked in legal accounts for 30 years and will be working closely with managing director Simon Brown, as well as head of finance Mike Gillibrand.
IT Manager Paul Medcalfe, from Bury, is also based at the Rawtenstall office of WHN Solicitors in a role that sees him managing the firm’s IT and communication infrastructure, while working with staff across all offices and departments.
Paul joins WHN from Jack Ross Chartered Accountants, where he was director of innovation for over two years. Previously he worked in a senior IT capacity at a number of businesses including Slater and Gordon, Fentons Solicitors, Boots and Halfords.
Paul gained a first class honours degree from Salford University in Computer Science and Information Systems with Industrial Experience after attending Bury College and Radcliffe High School. Paul’s professional qualifications and training include ITIL Manager’s Certificate in IT Service Management.
As a specialist conveyancing solicitor, Joanne Haselden will look after all aspects of residential property transactions from the firm’s Accrington office, working closely with head of conveyancing Graham Ireland.
Born and raised in Burnley, Joanne is 35 and was recruited by WHN from Donald, Race & Newton Solicitors in Burnley. Previously she worked as a solicitor at Farnworth Rose, and Southerns where she undertook her training contract.
Joanne completed her Law degree and Legal Practice Course at the University of Central Lancashire in Preston and recently completed a level 1 BSL sign language course.
Pictured from left to right are Paul Medcalfe, Karen Trafford and Joanne Haselden.
