FIVE North East solicitors have become the first to be appointed to a new senior position within their firm.

BHP Law has introduced a new associate position to recognise the expertise, experience and loyalty of qualified solicitors.

Part of a new career path programme, the move introduces a senior level within the regional firm that begins with trainee solicitor and peaks at equity partner.

Managing partner at BHP Law, John Pratt, said: “Following our recent restructure, and working closely with our human resources team, BHP Law has defined a clear career structure designed to encourage those individuals who want to progress within the firm.

“In doing this we have identified the experience, knowledge and behaviours required at each level to encourage expertise and help our people make the most of their talent.”

The five new associates are, from BHP’s Newcastle office, employment law specialist Paul Hargreaves, corporate recovery and insolvency specialist Paul Monaghan and company lawyer Zoe Dick; Elaine McLaine, a member of the company law team and academies conversion specialist based at Stockton; and property and environmental lawyer Adam Wood from the Darlington office.

Mr Pratt added: “These appointments demonstrate the real quality of our people and everyone at the firm wishes the solicitors involved continued success in their careers at BHP Law.”

Adam said he was delighted to be one of the first appointed to the new associate position.

“I thoroughly enjoy my work and find it incredibly rewarding. I work hard for my clients and to receive this acknowledgment from the firm is very encouraging,” he added.

Zoe said: “I am very pleased to see the firm recognising the hard work we have each put in over the last few years.”

Hargreaves said: “It’s a positive move to create a structured career path, develop people within the firm and invest in the future.”