Weightmans Manchester welcomes Owen McKenna as Partner

Weightmans, the national law firm with a thriving presence in Manchester, has kicked off the new year by announcing Owen McKenna as its latest partner in the real estate department. Owen, a seasoned transactional real estate lawyer with over 20 years of experience at prestigious law firms such as DWF, Brabners, and the Beyond Group, is set to contribute his expertise to enhance Weightmans' standing in real estate transactions.

Working across regional, national, and international platforms, Owen specializes in the acquisition and ongoing management of multi-let office buildings, office parks, and industrial units. His reputation, reflected in regular appearances in the Legal 500 annual rankings, is expected to further elevate Weightmans' technical excellence in real estate.

Weightmans' Manchester office, located at No 1 Spinningfields, has a workforce of 150 professionals providing a comprehensive range of legal services to businesses and individuals. Owen's appointment marks the commencement of an ambitious recruitment drive for the office in 2024, with a particular focus on attracting partners in corporate, employment, insurance, and social housing segments.

Expressing his excitement about joining Weightmans, Owen McKenna emphasized the firm's commitment to prioritizing clients' needs and delivering an exceptional client experience. He looks forward to contributing to the continued success of Weightmans in the Manchester region.

Carole Spiller, the regional office head in Manchester, welcomed Owen at a pivotal time for the office, noting that his appointment aligns with their ambitious recruitment plans for the year. Spiller emphasized the firm's commitment to growth, innovation, and the importance of attracting diverse talent to shape the future of Weightmans as a top 40 law firm in the Manchester region.

Owen McKenna is known for his commercial and practical approach, making him adept at negotiating and advising on complex transactions. His expertise spans various sectors, including residential and commercial real estate development, financial services, manufacturing, owner-managed business, and transport and logistics.

Weightmans' recent strategic moves include the recruitment of partner Andrew Steel, associate Emelia Bezant-Gahan, and solicitor Tom Lambourne in 2023, who joined the police and public sector team at the Manchester office from Plexus Law. The firm's ongoing efforts to expand its talent pool reflect its commitment to excellence and growth in the legal landscape.