Polly Rodway returns as partner at BDBF

BDBF, the specialist employment and partnership law firm, is set to launch a dedicated Investigations and Mediation practice under the leadership of Polly Rodway, who rejoins the partnership on 1 October 2026. Polly’s return marks a significant step for the firm as she aims to bring her extensive experience and insight back to the organisation she initially joined in its first year. Promoted to Partner in 2017, Polly later became a Consultant and now returns to a role that allows her to focus on complex employment matters.

With over 15 years of experience advising senior executives and organisations, Polly has developed a robust skill set, particularly in managing complicated and sensitive investigations for organisations. Her CEDR mediation accreditation further enhances her ability to navigate disputes, making her an asset to BDBF’s new practice. Her approach is characterised by a blend of insight, judgement, and emotional intelligence, which are crucial when addressing workplace challenges that require investigation or when relationships become strained.

BDBF’s Investigations and Mediation practice will provide independent, thorough, and robust investigations into complex and sensitive issues such as whistleblowing, discrimination, harassment, and serious misconduct, often involving senior leadership and regulated sectors. Polly’s involvement ensures that these investigations will maintain a rigorous yet sensitive and people-focused approach.

“It feels like coming home but with the excitement of giving investigations and mediation work the focused attention it deserves,” Polly remarked. She emphasised the growing need for investigators and mediators who possess both legal expertise and a genuine understanding of the people involved. Polly expresses eagerness to assist clients in navigating challenging situations and achieving constructive outcomes, keeping people at the centre of the process.

Gareth Brahams, BDBF’s Managing Partner, stated, “We are so pleased to welcome Polly Rodway back as a Partner. Polly is one of the most capable and positive people I have ever worked with.” His confidence in Polly’s abilities highlights her calm, pragmatic, and emotionally intelligent approach to employment disputes, which he believes will provide BDBF with a distinct advantage in investigations and mediations.