Construction lawyer rejoins Ward Hadaway

This significant move comes in the wake of the firm’s 2025 merger with The Endeavour Partnership, enhancing its capabilities in real estate, construction, and built environment work in Teesside. Major investments and projects are currently underway, particularly in clean energy and industrial decarbonisation, creating substantial opportunities in the local market.

Barnaby Rosenthall returns to Ward Hadaway following a stint as Senior Legal Counsel at Mitie, where he supported the executive leadership team and managed major projects focused on power and grid infrastructure. His experience encompasses both contentious and non-contentious construction matters, allowing him to advise organisations effectively on risk management, dispute avoidance, and the establishment of robust commercial arrangements from the start. This background positions Barnaby as a key asset to businesses facing the complexities of project delivery.

Kevin Weston, Head of Real Estate at Ward Hadaway, commented on the appointment, saying “Barnaby adds construction and engineering law expertise to our Teesside office at an important point for the local market.” Weston underscores Barnaby's unique blend of private practice and in-house experience, which enhances his understanding of the pressures associated with construction and engineering projects. He noted that "that perspective will be valuable for businesses and organisations working on complex projects, where legal advice has to take account of delivery pressures, cost, programme and commercial relationships."

Expressing his enthusiasm for returning, Barnaby stated, “Returning to Ward Hadaway was an easy decision because I already knew the strength of the team, the quality of the work and the firm’s ambitions for the future.” He articulated the importance of his previous experience, emphasising, “My time in-house gave me valuable insight into the commercial and operational challenges clients face on construction and engineering projects." He views his new role as a blend of leadership and growth within the firm’s construction and engineering practice.

Ward Hadaway's Managing Partner, Steven Petrie, remarked on the significance of this strategic appointment, sharing, “Barnaby’s appointment reflects the continued development of our Teesside office and the opportunities we see in the region." The firm sees robust activity in development, infrastructure, and low-carbon energy sectors, making Barnaby's technical expertise and commercial judgement even more valuable to their expanding client base.

Additionally, Ward Hadaway is engaging local businesses through its inaugural Tees Valley Business Confidence Barometer, aimed at capturing insights on business performance and regional economic factors. The survey, conducted by independent research company MMC, is open until Friday 7 August, with results expected to be published in September, further solidifying Ward Hadaway's commitment to local growth and development in Teesside.