South East law firm Mayo Wynne Baxter has announced six promotions, effective 1 November 2025.

The firm has promoted private client legal executive Lauren Puttock-Brown to partner.

In response to feedback from its people, Mayo Wynne Baxter has introduced a new senior associate role to bridge the gap between associate and legal director. The role aligns with a recognised career milestone across the legal sector, offering a clearer pathway for lawyers to continue building their technical expertise, commercial insight and client relationship skills.

Private client lawyers Ursula Tanner and Paula Tinton have been promoted to senior associate, alongside family expert Estella Hlisnikowski and property specialist Marika Monaghan.

Private client solicitor Sara Bashir has also been promoted to associate.

The promotions follow Mayo Wynne Baxter’s strongest performance in its history, with the firm achieving record revenue of more than £15m for the 2024/25 financial year – delivering double-digit growth.

In 2024/25, the firm invested heavily in its physical presence, relocating to a new, modern office in the heart of East Grinstead and moving its Eastbourne team into a purpose-built space following a £1m refurbishment.

Already in the current financial year, Mayo Wynne Baxter has opened a new office in Tunbridge Wells, strengthening its links with clients across Kent, Sussex and surrounding areas, while paving the way for further regional growth.

Dean Orgill, chief executive at Mayo Wynne Baxter, said: “Our people are the cornerstone of everything we do, and these promotions reflect their dedication, expertise and the vital role they play in delivering outstanding client service.

“Introducing the senior associate role demonstrates our commitment to clear, achievable career pathways that support professional growth and reward excellence.”

“As we expand across the South East, we remain focused on empowering our teams to thrive, ensuring our clients continue to benefit from the highest standards of legal advice and support.”

Mayo Wynne Baxter now operates 11 offices across the South East – including in Brighton, Chichester, Crawley, East Grinstead, Eastbourne, Lewes, London, Peacehaven, Seaford, Storrington and Tunbridge Wells.

South East law firm Mayo Wynne Baxter has achieved record revenue of more than £15m for the 2024/25 financial year, delivering double-digit growth and marking the strongest performance in its history.

Specialising in a broad range of legal services for businesses, individuals and organisations, the firm has combined its strong regional heritage with a focus on modernisation and strategic expansion to reach this milestone.

In 2024/25, Mayo Wynne Baxter invested heavily in its physical presence, relocating to a new, modern office in the heart of East Grinstead and moving its Eastbourne team into a purpose-built space following a £1m refurbishment. Four internal promotions strengthened leadership across key practice areas.

Already in the current financial year, the firm has opened a new office in Tunbridge Wells, strengthening its links with clients across Kent, Sussex and surrounding areas, while paving the way for further regional growth.

Mayo Wynne Baxter’s long-standing strategy is to grow its reach into Kent and Surrey, and with the addition of Tunbridge Wells, it now operates 12 offices across the South East – including in Brighton, Chichester, Crawley, Eastbourne, Kent, East Grinstead, Lewes, London, Peacehaven, Seaford, and  Storrington.

Dean Orgill, chief executive at Mayo Wynne Baxter, said: “This is a landmark year for Mayo Wynne Baxter. Achieving record revenue and consistent years of growth is a testament to the dedication of our people, the loyalty of our clients and our ability to adapt while staying true to our values. We are committed to strengthening our roots in the communities we serve, allowing us to be even closer to the clients and sectors we support.”

Steeped in history, the firm has been part of the Sussex community for more than 150 years – supporting local people, their families and their businesses. It has been part of legal and professional services firm Ampa Group since May 2022, and now sits firmly in The Lawyer’s Top 100 Law Firms list.

Mayo Wynne Baxter opens new office in Tunbridge Wells

We’re excited to share that Mayo Wynne Baxter has opened a new office in Tunbridge Wells, further strengthening our presence across the South East.

The new space, located at Lonsdale Gate just a three-minute walk from the railway station, will allow us to work more closely with clients in Kent, Sussex and the surrounding areas. With this move, we’re continuing our commitment to being accessible and rooted in the communities we serve.

Building on our growth across the South East

For many years, our strategy has been to grow in Kent and Surrey, building on our strong reputation in Sussex. The opening of Tunbridge Wells marks an important step in that plan. It also means our network of offices now stands at 11, with teams based in Brighton, Chichester, Crawley, East Grinstead, Eastbourne, Lewes, London, Peacehaven, Seaford and Storrington.

Each office is part of a wider network, but also deeply connected to its local area. This approach means our clients benefit from the resources of a large regional firm while still receiving the personal service that comes from having people nearby.

Why Tunbridge Wells?

Tunbridge Wells has long been a hub for business, professional services and creative industries. It’s also a thriving town with strong transport links to London and the wider South East, making it an ideal base for both our clients and our people.

By opening here, we’re making it easier for clients in Kent and beyond to meet with us, whether that’s in person at our office or virtually. The location allows us to strengthen existing relationships, while also supporting new businesses and individuals who need expert legal advice.

Putting clients and communities first

Dean Orgill, our chief executive, explained why this move is so important:

“We’ve always said we want to build roots in the communities we serve. Tunbridge Wells is a key part of that strategy, allowing us to be even closer to the clients and sectors we support across Kent.”

That community focus has always shaped the way we work. Whether it’s supporting families through life’s changes, advising businesses as they grow, or helping organisations navigate complex challenges, being present locally is central to our ethos.

A sustainable new space

As a certified B Corporation, we’re also committed to doing business in a way that has a positive impact. The design of the Tunbridge Wells office reflects that commitment, with sustainability considered at every stage. The fit-out has used upcycled and responsibly sourced materials wherever possible, reducing environmental impact and creating a workspace that reflects our values.

Looking ahead

The opening of the Tunbridge Wells office is more than just an expansion. It’s a statement of intent about our future in the region. We want to continue growing in a way that benefits our clients, our people and the communities we are part of.

We look forward to welcoming clients, colleagues and partners to the new space, and to building strong connections in Tunbridge Wells for many years to come.

Title picture: Simon Macklen, Dean Orgill, Joshua Mellor

Did you know that June is Pride Month? It’s a time of vibrant celebration and powerful remembrance for the LGBTQ+ community worldwide, and its roots are deeply significant.

June was chosen for Pride Month because it marks the anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising in June 1969. After a police raid on the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City, led to the assault of many patrons, the LGBTQ+ community peacefully protested for days. These protests fundamentally changed the discourse around LGBTQ+ activism and are widely considered the beginning of the modern Pride movement.

Today, Pride events held throughout June (and beyond) are incredibly important for many reasons:

Visibility and Identity

For many LGBTQ+ individuals, Pride offers a unique space where they can express their true selves without fear or shame. It’s a public celebration of diverse identities—whether that’s sexuality, gender, or non-conformity—in a world where many still feel pressure to hide. This visibility helps challenge stereotypes and normalise LGBTQ+ lives within the broader community.

A Powerful Act of Protest and Remembrance

Pride’s origins are in protest, led by trans women of colour, which catalysed the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. Today’s events still carry that legacy. While celebratory, they also serve as a reminder that full equality hasn’t yet been achieved. They highlight ongoing issues like hate crimes, conversion therapy, and global inequality.

Building Community and Solidarity

Many LGBTQ+ people experience isolation, especially those in unsupportive environments or who aren’t yet ‘out.’ Pride offers a vital sense of connection—a chance to meet others, feel supported, and know they’re not alone. Importantly, it also gives allies a visible way to stand beside their LGBTQ+ friends, family, and colleagues.

A Platform for Advocacy and Education

Pride isn’t just about the parties and parades; it’s a platform for raising awareness, promoting mental health, sharing resources, and educating both the LGBTQ+ community and the wider public. Events often feature stalls from charities, health services, and support organisations, helping people access life-changing information. It’s also a great way to support LGBTQ+-run businesses and organisations!

A Statement of Joy and Resistance

In a world where LGBTQ+ people are still marginalised or even criminalised in many places, the very act of celebrating publicly is revolutionary. Pride declares: we exist, we matter, and we’re not going anywhere. Joy becomes an act of resistance—defiant, healing, and empowering.

Pride is a powerful statement of identity, resilience, and hope. For LGBTQ+ people, it can be a life-affirming experience. For allies, it’s a chance to stand up, speak out, and show love in action. Together, Pride events remind us that diversity is something to be honoured, not hidden.

Mayo Wynne Baxter is a proud ally to the LGBTQ+ community and we’re delighted to be supporting Eastbourne Pride on July 19th and Crawley Pride on August 16th again this year.

Several of our colleagues will be attending both events (and some are even helping to set up the festival grounds at Crawley!).

As a special gesture, those attending Eastbourne or Crawley Pride may book their return travel as a Pride gift from the firm.

With best wishes for a wonderful Pride Month,

Sam Dickinson and Matt Parr

MWB have been celebrating the firms four recent promotions, which were effective from May 2025.

The firm has promoted Angela Payne to associate chartered legal executive, and Ganesh Kent to associate solicitor. Private client lawyer Matt Parr and residential property specialist Sacha Bolourchi have also been promoted into the membership of legal and professional services group Ampa, which Mayo Wynne Baxter is part of.

Residential conveyancing specialist Angela started her legal career in 1995, working across East Grinstead, Lewes and Brighton. After a career break to raise her three children and working part-time in a primary school, she now brings her expertise and dedication back to the legal sector.

Ganesh, who joined the firm in 2019, assists clients with drafting wills, lasting powers of attorney, and estate administration. She qualified in 2017 after studying law at the University of Surrey, following a background in accountancy and business. She is passionate about guiding clients through major life transitions.

Dean Orgill, chief executive at Mayo Wynne Baxter, said: “Our people are at the heart of our business, and our clients directly benefit from the investments we make in their growth and development.

“Recognising and rewarding high performance is a fundamental part of our culture, reflecting our commitment to nurturing talent across Sussex.

“We remain dedicated to providing ongoing opportunities for our outstanding people to thrive, ensuring they are empowered to deliver exceptional service to clients both regionally and nationwide.”

MWB has reaffirmed its commitment to East Grinstead by relocating to a new, modern office in the heart of the town.

The new modern and spacious office – on the second floor of Medway House, in Cantelupe Road – offers a range of state-of-the-art amenities designed to support the firm’s continued growth and commitment to delivering exceptional client service.

Key features include a dedicated reception area for welcoming clients; two external meeting rooms; a wellness room to support staff wellbeing; a small quiet office, ideal for focused work; an open plan office, including a number of height-adjsutable desks; a post room; and a separate kitchen space.

Dean Orgill, chief executive at Mayo Wynne Baxter, said: “We are delighted to open our new office in East Grinstead, which reflects our ongoing strategy to invest in modern, flexible workspaces across Sussex.

“This move is a testament to our long-term commitment to the town, ensuring we continue to provide high-quality legal services to the local community. Our investment in this new space also supports staff recruitment and retention, helping us attract top legal talent while creating a welcoming and efficient environment for both clients and employees.”

Located just 12-minute walk from East Grinstead Railway Station and close to town centre amenities, the new office is part the law firm’s strategy to broaden its footprint across the region, which included opening a new hub in Chichester in 2023.

Mayo Wynne Baxter has nine offices throughout the Sussex region, including in Brighton, Chichester, Crawley, East Grinstead, Eastbourne, Lewes, Peacehaven, Seaford, Storrington, as well as a London office.

Mayo Wynne Baxter mentors inspire students through Dare to Dream programme

As part of its ongoing commitment to social mobility, full-service Sussex law firm Mayo Wynne Baxter has partnered with the Dare to Dream initiative – delivered by the Love Local Jobs Foundation – to help young people build confidence, ambition and self-belief.

Through the partnership, Mayo Wynne Baxter has been paired with Hove Park School, where a dedicated team of mentors is working closely with students to improve their self-belief and demonstrate that aspirational career paths such as the legal sector are not only possible but well within their reach.

Five professionals from the firm – commercial partner Jonathan Clays, litigation partner Paul Rooke, private client solicitor Eloise Smith, chartered legal executive Angela Payne and commercial paralegal Molly Hamilton – have stepped up as mentors, supported by colleagues family paralegal Rebecca Robinson and private client partner Rebecca Louis.

Together, they are guiding and supporting a group of year nine students through the programme, offering valuable insights into the legal industry and world of work, while helping the students develop essential life skills.

Mayo Wynne Baxter chief executive Dean Orgill said: “We believe in unlocking the potential of young people and giving them opportunities to explore careers they may not have considered. By working with Dare to Dream, we hope to inspire students at Hove Park School and show them that the legal services sector is accessible to anyone with ambition and drive.”

The programme officially began with an initial briefing in mid-February, where the mentors took part in a training session. Looking ahead, the next stage is set to take place in March, where students will further develop key competencies essential for their future success.

The students will also have an opportunity to visit Mayo Wynne Baxter’s Lewes office in April, allowing them to experience the professional environment first-hand. The programme will culminate a few weeks later, where students will put their new-found skills into action.

Dare to Dream is an initiative from the Love Local Jobs Foundation that is dedicated to helping young people reimagine their future by building self-awareness, resilience and employability skills.

Jack Hayes, head of programme delivery at Dare to Dream and the former long-standing host of the Heart Sussex breakfast show, said: “We’re all about changing mindsets and empowering young people to believe in themselves. The involvement of companies like Mayo Wynne Baxter is crucial in showing students what’s possible when they have confidence and determination.”

We are proud to announced a 7% increase in MWB’s revenue for the past financial year, taking the firm’s turnover to more than £13.5 million for the first time, thanks to organic growth and team expansion.

In September 2023, the firm merged with Pure Employment Law in Chichester, bolstering its employment team. MWB has also made significant investments in its family and private client teams with the appointment of partners Marie Stock and Marwa Hadi-Barnes.

Dean Orgill, chief executive partner at Mayo Wynne Baxter, said: “Our continued growth is a testament to the strength and dedication of our teams, as well as our ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional legal services to our clients.”

Steeped in history, the firm has been part of the Sussex community for more than 150 years – supporting local people, their families and their businesses.

Dean continued: “While we are proud of these results, we remain focused on ensuring that our growth is both sustainable and aligned with our values.

“It is important to us that we maintain our close ties to the communities we serve, continue to offer a rewarding environment for our people, and keep delivering the high-quality legal services that have become the hallmark of Mayo Wynne Baxter.”

In addition to this revenue growth, Mayo Wynne Baxter has further strengthened its footprint across Sussex, adding Chichester to its geographical reach as well as investing in new premises in Eastbourne.

The firm also remains committed to career development and training, particularly promoting social mobility. The firm made four promotions in the past financial year.

The firm, which became part of legal and professional services group Ampa May 2022, now sits firmly in the Lawyer’s Top 100 Law Firms, with the group ranking at number 47.

Dean added: “The integration into the Ampa group has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in enabling us to accelerate this growth, providing us with enhanced resources, strategic support, and opportunities for cross-collaboration.

“We look forward to continued success and are open to hearing from like-minded talent who share our values of being both purposeful and profitable.”

International Women’s Day provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on the achievements of women and celebrate the progress made not only in the legal profession but in all areas of life towards gender equality.

Historically women have faced numerous obstacles in accessing and excelling within the legal profession, for decades concerted efforts have been made to foster inclusivity and dismantle the systemic barriers that have hindered the progress of women in law.

On reflecting on International Women’s Day 2024 tangible progress can be seen with women in key roles within the legal profession such as in the Judiciary, in law firms and in academia. There are now greater opportunities for women in the legal profession and their contributions are becoming more widely recognised. Women continue to reshape the landscape within the UK legal profession by challenging stereotypes and breaking through barriers in what was once a male dominated profession.

Mayo Wynne Baxter have built and continue to foster a culture of inclusivity and actively promote gender equality within the firm. As a law firm we have implemented initiatives aimed at promoting gender diversity such as unconscious bias awareness, flexible and hybrid working arrangements, mentoring and coaching programmes. As well as a menopause inclusion group. Adopting and promoting such initiatives is crucial in creating an inclusive environment where women can thrive and advance in their careers. In our most recent diversity survey statistics show that women make up an impressive 76.92% of employees within the firm, of those 48.6% are Partners and 44% of Board members are women.

Whilst undoubtedly progress has been made Mayo Wynne Baxter recognise challenges remain within the wider society which will require a multifaceted approach involving legal reforms, cultural shifts and changes in societal attitudes towards gender roles and expectations. Mayo Wynne Baxter are committed to promoting gender equality, diversity and inclusivity within the legal profession and wider legal community to create a future where every woman has the opportunity to pursue a career in law.