The Switalskis group has recruited senior HR professional Julie Guest into its new head of people role.

Julie’s appointment comes as part of the Switalskis group’s growth strategy which has already seen the firm expand its presence with the acquisitions of Atherton Godfrey and Pryers Solicitors.

As head of people, Julie will drive the firm’s people agenda, taking the lead on developing Switalskis’ talent, leadership and inclusion strategies and will further bring together teams across the group.

Bringing 28 years’ HR experience to the position, Julie joins Switalskis group from Harrogate energy supply company, CNG, where she was HR Manager, growing and upskilling a team of in-house HR professionals. Julie has gained extensive experience within professional services, finance, manufacturing and service and retail industries roles, including positions with Morrisons, Pinsent Masons and William Hill.

Says Julie Guest, “It’s great to join a firm with such a strong focus on its people, culture and values and I am looking forward to playing a part in further cementing our group-wide focus in this area. My role will involve further integration of people and systems following the acquisition of Atherton Godfrey and Pryers, along with enhancing Switalskis’ already strong talent development and creating an environment and culture in which everyone is able to flourish. A key part of this will be ensuring every employee comes along on this journey with us.”

Says John Durkan, Switalskis group MD, “Julie’s appointment comes at an exciting time for the firm as we are working hard to develop our people strategy across Switalskis, Pryers and Atherton Godfrey. People are at the centre of everything we do, and Julie shares our ambition for the Switalskis group to be a firm which makes a difference; is a great place to work; and is somewhere that employees can thrive. Julie brings a wide range of valuable experience to this role along with a proven HR leadership track record. She has been responsible for a number of successful change and development programmes within professional services businesses, and I’m delighted she has joined us as our first head of people.”