A change at the top – but law firm’s commitment to Derby will always remain

After more than three decades of dedicated service, including the last six years as Managing Partner, Kevin McGrath is stepping down from leading Smith Partnership. Here, in a Q&A, he reflects on his career, while in his own words, his successor, James Johnson, looks ahead to an exciting future for the Derby-based law firm.

KEVIN McGRATH

Tell us a bit about yourself and your career path.

I qualified as a solicitor on April Fools Day 1991 and joined Smith Partnership as a lawyer specialising in criminal defence work the same day.

My predecessor as Managing Partner, Steve Mann, was responsible for giving me my big break, although the job interview was unconventional as it centred around several bottles of red wine.

I can honestly say that in 34 years I have never wanted to work anywhere else.

Six years ago I was asked to take over the leadership of the firm. It has been a huge honour and a privilege.

These years in Derby have been particularly fascinating, as I’ve watched the city navigate unprecedented change, much of it accelerated by the Covid pandemic.

The resilience and adaptability I’ve seen has been truly inspiring.

What changes have you seen in the industry during that time?

The legal landscape has changed dramatically during my tenure. We have witnessed significant shifts in our court systems and legal aid frameworks -changes that have fundamentally altered how people access justice in this country.

These developments have demanded constant adaptation and a steadfast commitment to ensuring that quality legal representation remains available to those who need it most.

What changes have you seen in Derby during that period?

When I came to Derby in the late 80s the city was thriving. Sadler Gate was packed with designer shops, the Rhode Island Diner and the Blue Note were the places to go and the Rams were about to embark on the Lionel Pickering era.

We all know the city centre has had some problems in recent years but I genuinely believe that it is starting to buzz again.

Developments such as Vaillant Live and the new Market Hall, together with the increased focus on new residential developments that will bring people back to the heart of the city, are really encouraging and investors are increasingly finding the city an attractive place to do business.

Smith’s has been and continues to be a great supporter of the city. What’s the motivation behind this approach?

For me, personally, I came to the city from university with nothing but my qualifications and it has given me a wonderful career. I owe it a lot.

Speaking for the firm, when many professional service firms were relocating away from the city centre we chose to stay and invest.

The city and its people have always supported us and by staying put and demonstrating that businesses can continue to thrive we hope encourage others to do the same and repay that support.

What kind of future do you think the city has going forward?

The future is bright. New developments, strategic partnerships and community-based initiatives are being created all the time and there is a collective will to see the city succeed.

No-one should underestimate the commitment that is still needed but there are enough people out there who feel the same way about the city as I do to make it happen.

Reflecting on your career, what have been the highlights – and what plans do you have for the future?

I once represented a man in court who kept a donkey in his living room.

When the council came to evict him there was a bit of a scuffle and he was prosecuted.

The evidence was overwhelming but the magistrates acquitted him, I suspect because they felt sorry for the donkey.

On a more serious note Covid hit six months after I became Managing Partner.

Navigating the firm’s way through that with the support of all of my amazing colleagues at Smith Partnership meant that we did not have to make a single one of our 200 staff redundant. That is probably the thing I am most proud of.

Do you have anything else to add?

I know that I am leaving the firm in an excellent position and that it will continue to thrive under James’s leadership.

He has a very clear vision for the future and will bring a fresh and ambitious approach to the role while upholding the values that have made the business what it is today.

I’m looking forward to watching both the firm and the city take those next steps together.

JAMES JOHNSON

As I take on the role of Managing Partner, this moment marks not just a change in leadership, but a continuation of the values and vision that have defined our firm.

Kevin has led with distinction, leaving behind a legacy of strong leadership, unwavering commitment to legal excellence and a people-first approach that has always placed our clients and colleagues at the heart of everything we do.

I step into this role with a clear and ambitious vision – one rooted in growth, innovation and a deep commitment to delivering high-quality legal services, while positioning Smith Partnership as the East Midlands law firm to work for.

My journey to this role mirrors Kevin’s own path through the firm.

30 years ago, while still at university, I undertook work experience at Smith Partnership.

It was Kevin who gave me my first opportunity, offering me a role in the criminal law team upon graduation.

The firm supported me through qualification, and I’ve since progressed through the ranks – becoming a partner 15 years ago, joining the management team in recent years, and now stepping into the role of Managing Partner.

Kevin has been instrumental in both the growth of the firm and my personal development, and his support as I take this next step is something I value deeply.

I believe my progression within the firm speaks volumes about the mentorship culture and long-term vision that defines Smith Partnership.

Taking over from Kevin is no small task. I’ve heard the phrase “big shoes to fill” many times recently, and rightly so.

But while the challenge is significant, it’s one I embrace with enthusiasm and optimism.

I’m excited to help guide the firm through its next chapter, building on the momentum and growth we’ve achieved under Kevin’s leadership.

Throughout my career, I’ve built a respected employment law practice, always placing people – clients and colleagues – at the centre of my work.

That focus will remain as I take on this new role. I bring with me a deep understanding of our firm’s culture and values, having witnessed first-hand our evolution from a smaller practice to a leading law firm in the East Midlands known for our exceptional service.

Our commitment to Derby remains unwavering. It’s where our roots lie, and I’m determined to maintain and strengthen our connection to the city.

The people of Derby deserve honest, expert legal advice, and that will continue to be our priority under my leadership.

Kevin’s tenure as Managing Partner was transformational, marked by cultural growth and strategic expansion. His leadership has laid a strong foundation for the future.

As we move forward, I am committed to championing local legal talent, supporting regional development and delivering legal services that are both accessible and exceptional.

My vision includes expanding our digital capabilities, deepening client relationships and embracing innovation in how we deliver legal services.

While we honour our heritage, we are firmly focused on the future – ready to adapt, listen and grow.

As I assume this new role, I look forward to nurturing the strong relationships we’ve built with fellow Bondholders and forging new ones.

My vision is to build on our strengths, continue evolving and ensure that Derby remains at the heart of everything we do.