Q&A with Lisa Bailey, Head of HR at Chadwick Lawrence: Why We’re Not Your Typical Law Firm

At Chadwick Lawrence, we believe a law firm should be more than just a place to work – it should be a place where people feel valued, supported and empowered to thrive. In a profession often associated with long hours and high stress, we’ve worked hard to create something different: a culture centred on wellbeing, flexibility, and genuine care. To give you a behind-the-scenes look at what makes us unique, we sat down with Lisa Bailey, our Head of HR, to talk about how Chadwick Lawrence is redefining what it means to work in law.

Q: What makes Chadwick Lawrence different from a typical law firm, and how does it stand out as an employer in the regional legal sector?

Lisa: At Chadwick Lawrence, we put people first – not just in how we serve our clients, but in how we look after our team. Our culture is built on genuine care, flexibility, and a commitment to wellbeing. We believe in nurturing personal growth, supporting one another, and building a workplace that feels like a community. That’s what sets us apart.

Q: The legal industry is often associated with high pressure and long hours. How does Chadwick Lawrence challenge that stereotype while still delivering professional excellence?

Lisa: We’ve replaced rigid hierarchies with humanity. There’s no ‘one size fits all’ here – we embrace individuality and value people over process. We’ve created a culture that prizes wellbeing over burnout. From our open-door leadership style to our use of technology and our focus on true work-life balance, we’re creating an environment that’s progressive and centred around each person’s wellbeing.

Q: How do you ensure an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued and supported?

Lisa: Inclusion at Chadwick Lawrence isn’t a box ticking exercise – it’s who we are. It’s embedded in how we lead, listen and grow together. We foster psychological safety, promote open communication, and encourage people to bring their whole selves to work. Our leadership is approachable, our policies are designed to support real life, and we even celebrate the contributions of colleagues at our annual awards ceremony. Everyone’s voice matters here.

Q: Can you tell us about the Salary Sacrifice Scheme and how it benefits employees financially?

Lisa: We offer a range of salary sacrifice options including pension contributions, purchasing up to five additional holidays per year, and our cycle-to-work scheme. These initiatives support financial and physical wellbeing, while also enhancing work-life balance. Importantly, any employer NI savings made through pension contributions are reinvested back into our colleagues’ pensions, boosting their retirement pots. From April 2026, we’ll also offer the option to sell unused holidays.

Q: What inspired the introduction of benefits like the Healthcare Cashback Scheme and Discounted Shopping Voucher Scheme?

Lisa: We know that supporting colleagues means caring for their whole lives, not just their working hours. The healthcare cashback scheme helps make essential treatments more accessible and affordable. It’s all about peace of mind and showing that we genuinely care about our team’s health and wellbeing. The shopping vouchers are a little extra help in making everyday life that bit easier.

Q: The legal profession is demanding. How does Chadwick Lawrence support the mental and physical health of its employees?

Lisa: We take a proactive, holistic approach. Here are just a few of the things we offer:

• Medicash Cashback Scheme
• Private medical insurance
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Mental Health First Aiders
• Wellbeing workshops and webinars
• Hybrid and flexitime options
• Dedicated wellbeing time off each week
• Support for neurodiverse colleagues
• Tailored support for returners from maternity leave
• Regular wellbeing and engagement surveys

These initiatives ensure our colleagues feel seen, supported, and genuinely cared for.

Our website has a page dedicated to the perks for our people, it’s something we want to celebrate!

Q: How does the firm build a culture of collaboration, mutual respect and inclusivity across departments?

Lisa: Our culture isn’t just written in a handbook – it’s lived every day. Our values guide everything we do, from recruitment to client care. Everyone signs up to our “Chadwick Lawrence Way” of working when they join. It’s a shared commitment to respect, teamwork and accountability. It’s reflected in how we speak to one another, support each other and serve our clients – and that consistency is what makes our culture so strong.

Q: What opportunities are available for career progression and professional development?

Lisa: We’re passionate about nurturing talent. Our GROW group supports trainees from both legal and non-legal backgrounds. It connects people early in their careers and provides valuable networking and learning opportunities. Our annual progression programme is open to everyone – fee earners and non-fee earners alike – and our Training Extra Scheme allows colleagues to apply for funding for additional development that benefits both them and the firm.

Q: How does the firm’s wellbeing-focused culture impact employee satisfaction and retention?

Lisa: It makes a world of difference. By investing in our people’s mental, physical and financial wellness, we’re creating an environment where colleagues feel valued, supported and motivated. This isn’t just about ticking boxes – it’s about building a workplace where people genuinely want to stay and grow their careers.

Q: Are there any exciting new benefits or initiatives on the horizon?

Lisa: Yes! We’ll be launching the option to sell holidays in April 2026. This year, we’re also rolling out a new onboarding platform to make the transition into the firm even smoother for new starters. We’re always looking for ways to evolve and enhance our employee experience.

Q: In one sentence, what would you say to prospective employees about why Chadwick Lawrence is a great place to work?

Lisa: We put people at the heart of everything we do – we’re an inclusive, wellbeing-driven firm where you’ll be supported, developed, and empowered to thrive, all while having fun along the way.

Q: How should candidates prepare for a job interview with Chadwick Lawrence?

Lisa: Just be yourself. We’re looking for real people who share our values, care about others and want to be part of a supportive, forward-thinking team. If that sounds like you, we’d love to meet you.

People truly are at the heart of everything we do. From pioneering wellbeing initiatives to fostering a genuinely inclusive culture, we’re proud to be building a firm that breaks the traditional law firm mould. Whether you’re just starting your legal career or looking for a firm that aligns with your values, Chadwick Lawrence offers a place where you can grow, belong and make a real difference. As Lisa puts it – this is more than a workplace; it’s a community.

Do you think you’d be a good fit? Browse our careers opportunities today.