We are absolutely thrilled to welcome a new partner, Sarah Heath, to the firm.
Sarah becomes the 3rd partner in our growing Commercial Property Team, joining Ben Cobb and head of department Oonagh McKinney.
About Sarah
Sarah has significant experience of advising upon on all types of commercial and agricultural property matters with a particular focus on redevelopment projects.
Sarah started her legal career practicing in the West Midlands, relocating to the south coast over 10 years ago. She has held partnership positions in regional firms for 20 years and been heavily involved in the management and development of businesses.
She has lead teams on a number of multimillion pound projects and also heads up the real estate element of corporate asset and share transactions.
A longstanding client recently commented that, “Sarah is reliable, quick-witted and straight to the point”.
Matthew Fretten on Sarah’s arrival
Managing Partner Matthew Fretten said: “Sarah is a major coup for Frettens, and we are very much looking forward to seeing her take on a leading role in our growing commercial property team.
As an excellent lawyer and experienced partner, Sarah will offer a fresh perspective, which is really exciting.
Sarah’s addition also takes us another step in the right direction towards meeting our long-term growth goals, with the firm now boasting over 100 staff and 14 partners.”
Growth of commercial side of the firm
“In recent years, strengthening the commercial side of the business has been one of our top priorities; and I’m glad to see that our persistent investment is continuing to pay off with the addition of Sarah.” Matthew continued.
Since 2021, a whopping eight new staff members have joined Frettens’ commercial department; and there’s been growth from within in that time too. Take Ben Cobb or Karen Edwards for example, who have both had back-to-back promotions in the last few years.
We haven’t shied away from investing in the next generation of lawyers either. James Privett, also in our commercial property team, is one of three promising young lawyers who are currently undertaking their SQEs at the firm.
“We’re so pleased that things are heading in the right direction commercially and we’re set to meet our long-term goals much sooner than expected.” concluded Matthew.
Sarah on joining Frettens, and her time at the firm so far
We asked Sarah a couple of questions about her starting with us, here’s what she said…
What attracted you to Frettens?
“I was attracted to Frettens by their refreshing approach to the provision of legal services, client engagement and team ethos.” said Sarah.
What has the welcome been like?
“Warm! I’ve very much felt part of a great team from Day 1!”
Are you excited to be a part of the firm?
“Yes, of course!” continued Sarah.
“It is great to join of a firm that has such an innovative and proactive approach to the provision of legal services and to be part of a highly skilled and well-respected team.”
Oonagh McKinney’s thoughts on another partner joining the team
Oonagh McKinney, who joined the firm as partner in 2007 and has acted as Head of Department ever since, said: “It’s great to have another partner on board in commercial property, especially one with such a great reputation.
Sarah will not only be a great help to the team in Ringwood and assist us in dealing with the increasing number of commercial property clients instructing Frettens, but will also play an important role in working with the leadership team to continue the firm’s growth and will be an excellent mentor and example to the younger and less experienced members of the team..”
Careers at Frettens
We are in the midst of an exciting period of growth at Frettens and are looking for bright, ambitious people to join us and help achieve our ambitions.
You can see what it is like to work with us and check out all of our current vacancies in our careers section.
If a job for you isn’t listed but you like the sound of what we’re doing, don’t hesitate to get in touch for a chat. We are always looking for great people to share in our success.
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