27 April 2015

Investing in Forsters

Our new website is one of a series of investments we are making at Forsters during a period of rapid growth for the firm.  Other investments include the refurbishment of the firm's Mayfair office buildings, a 30% expansion in office space and a 20% increase in headcount over the last twelve months. 

Paul Roberts, Forsters' Managing Partner explained that this "investment in people and infrastructure is vital if Forsters wants to continue to provide the best possible service to a rapidly growing client base.  We have already made investments in new staff and in our office facilities.  Changes to our website and to the Forsters brand are designed to ensure that the way we present information to our clients is clear and relevant to them.  Looking ahead we will be investing in our IT capability and will continue to recruit into both our legal and business support teams in order to keep pace with our clients expectations."  

People

In 2014 headcount at Forsters grew by 20% as we recruited to support growth in our business, particularly in its market leading real estate and private wealth practices.  Growth in numbers has come from an expanded trainee recruitment programme as well as the recruitment of talented lawyers from major City practices who come to Forsters for the quality of work it offers them and for its different approach to professional life. 

In the last 12 months the appointment of Smita Edwards as Senior Partner and the promotion of a group of junior partners to management roles in the firm marks an investment in the future leadership of the firm.   In April, Helen Marsh was appointed as a partner in Forsters' Residential Property team.   Equally importantly Forsters has strengthened its business support teams to ensure that the capability of these teams reflect the quality of the services delivered to clients.

Offices

Forsters is committed to remaining in Mayfair which puts the firm at the heart of the real estate and private wealth industries. Explaining the commitment to our location Paul Roberts said "Mayfair is synonymous with the highest levels of service quality which resonates with our values and mission statement.  We enjoy working in such a vibrant area that has some of the best aspects London can offer whether professionally or socially!"

Additional office space was acquired at the end of 2013 and over last 18 months there has been a comprehensive refurbishment of Forsters' main building at 31 Hill Street.  This has included the creation of a new suite of client meeting rooms and a conference room for client seminars.  Forsters' offices retain their unique historical features but have been updated to create a modern open plan working environment which encourages collaborative team working and communication.  

Growth

The firm's results for 2014 – 2015 show another year of financial success.  The strength of the core business and new business from institutional real estate funds, overseas investors and a whole range of private wealth clients, both onshore and offshore saw fee income grow for the fifth consecutive year.

Our Insights

"The team at Forsters is dedicated and knowledgeable, as well as highly professional and personable."
Chambers UK Guide, 2024
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