Clarion Solicitors Leeds Promotes 17 with New Real Estate Partner

Clarion Solicitors Leeds announces 17 promotions across the business, with Simon Rhodes elevated to partner in the real estate team as the firm continues to invest in home-grown legal talent

Leeds law firm Clarion Solicitors Leeds has promoted 17 team members across the business, with Simon Rhodes elevated to partner in the real estate team. Rhodes has built a growing client portfolio and established himself as a trusted adviser in the Leeds property market. Alongside his client work, he plays an active role in mentoring junior colleagues and supporting the continued growth of the team and wider firm. The 17 promotions span Clarion Solicitors Leeds’ practice areas and follow a pattern of annual investment in home-grown talent at the firm, which promoted 12 people in 2024 and eight legal directors in 2022.

Why This Matters For Leeds

Seventeen promotions at a single Leeds law firm demonstrates a legal sector actively developing talent rather than importing it from elsewhere. For the wider Leeds legal market, Clarion’s promotions add to the picture alongside Walker Morris (26 promotions), Addleshaw Goddard (five partners), and Ward Hadaway’s recent corporate hire. The city’s legal sector is growing its senior talent base at scale.

Clarion Solicitors Leeds Promotion Highlights

Rhodes’ promotion to partner follows his elevation to legal director in 2024, reflecting a clear internal progression pathway at the firm. Clarion is recognised by Chambers and Partners as a key player in Yorkshire with a national and international reputation, serving businesses across the UK and in over 75 countries. The firm has consistently invested in developing its own people, with the 17 promotions this year following 12 in 2024 and a round of eight legal director promotions in 2022. The firm’s approach to promotion emphasises commercial delivery, client relationship building, and contribution to the wider team.

“Clarion continues to recognise and reward colleagues promoting 17 team members across the business. Simon Rhodes has been promoted to Partner in the Real Estate team known for his commercial approach and strong client relationships. He has established himself as a trusted adviser in the Leeds market.”

— Clarion Solicitors

Leeds Legal Talent Pipeline

Clarion’s promotions add to a busy period for Leeds’ legal sector. Walker Morris announced 26 promotions including three new partners earlier this year. Addleshaw Goddard promoted five to partner, with Philippa McCarthy immediately leading the Kingsland Drinks acquisition. Ward Hadaway strengthened its Leeds corporate team with a partner appointment. And FTI Consulting opened on Boar Lane with restructuring and debt advisory services. The pattern is consistent: Leeds law firms are building senior capacity to service the growing volume of deals, development, and investment flowing through the city. For businesses looking for legal advice in Leeds, the depth of senior talent across corporate, real estate, banking, private wealth, and litigation continues to grow. The full list of Clarion’s 17 promotions is available on the firm’s website.