Essex Law firm makes partner promotions

Birkett Long has promoted two members of staff to its now 26 strong partnership.

Associate, Ben Parmenter, and Head of HR, Joann Kebbell, bring the number of partners to 26 following their promotion.  Birkett Long’s Chairman, David Wisbey, said: “I congratulate them both on taking their careers at Birkett Long to the next level. I am proud that our partnership comprises people from a wide spectrum of our business. Ben and Joann’s talent will play an important part in driving forward our strategy over the coming years.” Ben Parmenter, from the Colne Valley, is team leader of the Colchester Wills, Trusts and Probate Team. Prior to studying law, Ben had a career in engineering. Ben said: “Although very different work, the problem solving skills I developed have stood me well in my legal career. “I have worked for Birkett Long for nearly ten years, and what stands out the most is the support that all colleagues receive from the firm.  If any individual has the drive and desire to succeed, they usually do. “In my current role, I am lucky enough to deal with a great deal of complex legal work that is, of course, rewarding and stimulating.  However, my favourite aspect of being a solicitor is still meeting clients and making them feel at ease with whatever issues they may have. “To be offered partnership within Birkett Long is clearly the highlight of my career.  I am very much looking forward to the new position.” Joann Kebbell, Head of HR, is responsible for the management of the human resources within the firm and enables the firm to meet its long terms goals and objectives. A former family law adviser from Weight, Wolny & Trusler, Joann switched carers into human resources in June 2011. Joann obtained her CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Human Resource Management at University Campus Suffolk, now called The University of Suffolk. Joann said: “I enjoy being in the position of knowing everyone within Birkett Long, being able to offer support and guidance where needed, to enable people to meet their full potential and contribute to the success of the firm. “I am excited to have been asked to join the partnership, particularly as a non-lawyer. I feel it acknowledges the value and importance of a non-lawyer’s role to the success of the firm.  I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity and am looking forward to my future with the firm.”