McHale & Co strengthens senior team significantly

Law firm McHale & Co has taken a significant step in its growth strategy by appointing Shaun Little as head of corporate and Patrick Byrne as head of employment. This move comes as the Altrincham-based practice aims to accelerate the expansion of its commercial advisory services. Shaun, formerly with Sumer Law, brings a wealth of experience after training and qualifying at Eversheds Sutherland, followed by stints at Beyond Corporate and Sumer Law. Patrick joins the firm from Weightmans, having developed his skills at Myerson Solicitors and trained at Howes Percival.

Adam Horner, joint chief executive at McHale & Co, expressed enthusiasm about the new appointments, stating that “Shaun and Patrick bring exceptional expertise, commercial awareness and leadership experience.” He added that their arrival will strengthen the ability to support SME clients on crucial matters, particularly in employment and corporate transactions. Horner also highlighted that “Our vision has always been to build a modern law firm that combines technical excellence with outstanding client service.” He emphasised that the new team members will reinforce this vision and reaffirm the firm’s commitment to investing in talent and capabilities for future growth.

Shaun Little shared his ambition for the corporate team, saying, “We aim to become the go-to corporate team for SMEs across the north west and, looking ahead, to build a practice advising growing businesses across the country.” He feels fortunate to join McHale & Co, noting that it is an exciting time as the firm lays the groundwork for further expansion.

Patrick Byrne's focus is on enhancing the firm’s employment law practice while collaborating with teams across various sectors. He remarked that “We aim to position our employment team as a market-leading offering for SMEs that challenges traditional law firm models,” emphasising the pursuit of a competitive fixed-fee service model. “I’m very excited to join McHale & Co at this stage of its journey,” he added, portraying the firm as entrepreneurial and innovative in the HR and employment law sectors, dedicated to delivering excellent legal advice.

Kamil Tomaszewski, the other joint CEO, remarked that “The appointment of Shaun and Patrick represents a significant step in the continued evolution of McHale & Co.” He acknowledged the firm’s dedication to supporting businesses through various stages and noted the growing demand for specialist corporate and employment law expertise. He concluded that “The fact that we are attracting lawyers of Shaun and Patrick's calibre from larger firms is a testament to the reputation we have built.”

McHale & Co is a part of the broader McHale Group and employs over 150 staff across multiple locations, including offices in Altrincham, Stockport, the Heatons, Heywood, and London, in addition to various specialised brands.