In a move that cements its reputation as one of the UK’s most dynamic and fastest-growing independent law firms, Flint Bishop has appointed Malcolm Simpson as managing partner for the North, with responsibility for the firm’s Leeds, Sheffield, and York offices.
Operating from six strategic hubs across England and Wales, Flint Bishop has seen exceptional growth in recent years, reporting turnover of £32 million with projected revenues set to exceed £40 million this financial year. The firm now employs around 420 staff and has a strong acquisition pipeline for Q1 2026, underlining its ambition to become a top-tier national independent law firm.
The strategic appointment of Simpson, who served as managing partner of Walker Morris LLP between 2018 and 2024, represents a major coup for Flint Bishop. A highly respected law firm leader and disputes specialist, Simpson brings an impressive track record of transformation, profitability, and cultural renewal to his new role.
This announcement follows Flint Bishop’s acquisition of the entire business of Lupton Fawcett LLP on 29 September — a transaction that significantly expanded the firm’s northern footprint across Leeds, Sheffield, and York. The deal has established a powerful platform for sustained regional and national growth.
As managing partner for the North, Simpson will spearhead the development of Flint Bishop’s newly established North division, driving the next phase of the firm’s strategic expansion and integration across its national platform. He has a clear mandate to accelerate growth through organic expansion, targeted lateral hires, team integrations, and further acquisition activities, reinforcing Flint Bishop’s position as a national powerhouse.
During his six-year tenure as managing partner at Walker Morris, Simpson oversaw a period of record financial performance, modernised governance, and enhanced operational efficiency. Under his leadership, the firm’s turnover grew from £42 million to £74 million — achieved without increasing headcount — resulting in substantial profit growth and reinvestment capacity. His leadership was defined by a focus on innovation, client service excellence, and sustainable performance.
Prior to becoming managing partner, Simpson spent 18 years as a partner at Walker Morris (2000–2018), where he built an outstanding reputation as a leading disputes lawyer with a strong international client base. He has advised FTSE 250, Fortune 500, and private equity–backed businesses across the UK, US, and Europe, with particular expertise in the manufacturing, power generation, and real estate development sectors.
With more than three decades of experience in high-stakes dispute resolution and senior leadership, Simpson is recognised for his expertise in strategic leadership, operational excellence, governance, and business transformation. His arrival adds significant depth and capability to Flint Bishop’s national leadership team as the firm continues its ambitious growth trajectory.
Qamer Ghafoor, chief executive at Flint Bishop, said: “Malcolm’s arrival marks another defining moment in our journey. His proven record of driving transformation, cultural evolution, and sustained performance aligns perfectly with our ambitions. Working closely with me and the executive leadership team, he will help strengthen client relationships and expand our market share across core sectors and regions — reinforcing our commitment to building a high-performing, future-focused national law firm.”
Malcolm Simpson said: “Flint Bishop’s vision, momentum, and client-first ethos make it one of the most exciting law firms in the UK market. Following the acquisition of Lupton Fawcett, the North division presents a phenomenal opportunity — with outstanding teams in Leeds, Sheffield and York, a strong and loyal client base, and huge potential for growth. I’m thrilled to be joining at such a pivotal and energising stage of the firm’s evolution.”
