Birketts names new chief people officer and HR director

Law firm Birketts has named Shaun Savory as its first chief people officer and Fiona Wellstead as HR director, as part of a restructure of its HR leadership team. 

The new structure reflects the firm’s move to a C-suite leadership model, ensuring the design and delivery of its people strategy have clear strategic focus. It also underscores its ongoing investment in leadership, culture and capability.

Savory joined Birketts in 2008, having previously worked at an international law firm in London. As chief people officer, he is responsible for the design and delivery of the firm’s people strategy, including talent attraction, learning and development, knowledge, responsible business, engagement and culture. 

He will work with the chief executive, partners and directors to ensure people considerations remain integral to business decision making and are aligned to the firm’s long-term objectives.

Wellstead joined in 2017 and will be leading the design and delivery of the firm’s HR strategy while working with Savory. She will be responsible for the effective operation of the HR function, ensuring it continues to respond to evolving needs and delivers a consistent, high-quality experience for staff. 

Shaun said: “Birketts has always placed a strong emphasis on its people and on creating an environment where staff can develop, contribute and succeed. Having people strategy formally represented at the highest levels of leadership reflects the value the firm places on its people and culture and is a real credit to the partnership and leadership team who recognise that our success is built on the strength, commitment and talent of our employees.”

Wellstead added: “I’m delighted to step into the role of HR Director as we continue strengthening our people agenda. With Shaun moving into the new chief people officer role, this is an exciting moment for our function and the firm overall. The evolution of our C-suite reflects a clear commitment to putting people at the centre of our strategy and I look forward to working closely with employees to help our teams and culture continue to thrive.”