Neil Wilson, Managing Partner at Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors, was named Professional Services Leader of the Year at The Business Desk Yorkshire Leadership Award Event last night.

The awards ceremony, held on Thursday 20 March at The Royal Armouries in Leeds, celebrates exceptional leaders who inspire within their organisations and raise industry standards across Yorkshire.

Neil earned the accolade for his resilience and outstanding leadership throughout his decade-long tenure, driving growth and success at Chadwick Lawrence.

Since taking the role, Neil has led 210 employees from eight offices across West Yorkshire, and his leadership has resulted in year-on-year growth since 2014 – with an anticipated turnover of £16.2 million in 2024/25.

The Professional Services Leader highlights an individual who has shown strong leadership and had a positive impact in their firm or further afield.

Specialising in sports and employment law, Neil has established himself as a trusted advisor to many of the region’s top organisations and sports clubs, including Leeds Rhinos and Huddersfield Town Football Club.

Beyond his legal expertise, Neil is a prominent speaker on people management, employment law, culture change and inclusivity, and uses his vast experience to mentor and develop talent within Chadwick Lawrence and the broader professional community.

Neil holds a non-executive director role on the board at Leeds Rhinos as their Legal Director. He is also a trustee of Leeds Rhinos Foundation where Chadwick Lawrence provides pro bono legal support.

Neil’s leadership and progressive approach has been instrumental in transforming Chadwick Lawrence’s culture. Since he became managing partner, the firm has become a modern, inclusive and innovative workplace – securing a spot on the Sunday Times’ Best Place to Work list in 2024. The firm works with many charity partners and has launched running clubs to support employee wellbeing, with Neil actively participating in charity sporting events.

On his win, Neil said: “I am so proud and pleased to receive this award. It is a great accolade for Chadwick Lawrence and is enabled by the massive support and friendship I receive from my colleagues every day. Credit and thanks to Business Desk for a first-class awards night event and congratulations to all winners on the night.”