Lancaster University alumnus Carl Newton, who graduated with a first-class honours degree in Law in 1992 from Lonsdale College, has successfully led Myerson Solicitors, a Top 200 UK law firm based in Altrincham, Cheshire, to become Manchester’s first 100% employee-owned law firm.

This move places Myerson among the largest employee-owned organisations in the UK. Myerson is now 100% owned by its employees through an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).

Carl joined Myerson Solicitors, known then as Neil Myerson & Co, in 1995. Over the years, he progressed to become a Partner in 1999 and later served as Head of the Corporate and Commercial Department, before stepping into the role of Managing Partner and eventually CEO. Under his leadership, Carl has significantly bolstered the profile and reputation of Myerson within the professional services industry, championing the brand and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit within the firm.

Carl's forward-thinking approach has been instrumental in creating a smart, efficient, and flexible working environment at Myerson. He successfully introduced the firm's operating system (EOS, inspired by the book Traction by Gino Wickman), which has enabled the firm to improve its collaborative way of working. This focus on efficient, transparent leadership and accountability has cemented Myerson’s reputation as a trusted advisor to its clients.

Reflecting on the firm's recent transformation from an LLP to a 100% Employee-Owned Business (EOB), Carl comments: "Becoming the first 100% employee-owned law firm in Manchester is not only an exciting milestone for Myerson but also a very proud moment for me personally. Becoming 100% employee-owned allows us to give every single employee a stake in our firm’s financial success; it empowers our people, attracts top talent, and reinforces our people-centric culture."

A New Era of Employee Ownership

Myerson’s transition to an EOB reaffirms its commitment to independence and organic growth. The firm, which was founded in 1982, serves both business and private clients nationally and locally and achieved 15% organic growth for the financial year ending 31 August 2024, with revenues reaching £17.5 million.

The shift to employee ownership has involved the creation of a new Board of Trustees. The existing management board, led by Carl, will continue to oversee Myerson's operations and strategy.

Carl continues: “Our clients will experience the same exceptional service they have come to expect, with the added assurance that all our employees are more engaged and committed than ever to ensuring the firm's continued success.”