Managing partner reflects on 150th anniversary milestone for Andrew Jackson Solicitors
MILESTONE: Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP managing partner Mark Pearson-Kendall, right, with senior partner Dominic Ward, making a speech to celebrate 150 years of the law firm
By Rick Lyon, Co-Editor
Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP is bringing its 150th anniversary celebrations to a close, and focusing firmly on the future.
The milestone has coincided with significant growth, including a series of senior appointments, further strengthening the firm’s capability and underlining its commitment to delivering exceptional client service.
Founded in Hull in 1874, Andrew Jackson is an active member of the business communities in each of the regions where it now operates, while serving clients nationally and internationally.
From its original maritime roots, the firm has grown into a full service, multi-disciplinary practice. Today, it delivers client-focused advice from offices in Hull, York, Grimsby and Scarborough to a diverse client base that includes plcs, SMEs, owner-managed businesses and individuals, while its maritime specialism continues to attract clients across the globe.
For managing partner Mark Pearson-Kendall, the anniversary reflects not only the firm’s heritage but also its consistency, dependability and focus on service excellence. He believes that the milestone is a timely reminder of the importance of agility and evolution.
“The legal profession depends on reputation and capability,” he said. “Marking 150 years is a privilege for those working at Andrew Jackson today, but it also highlights the responsibility we carry to uphold the ethos, vision and heritage that brought us here.
“While we are shaping the future and driving strategy, we remain conscious that our time is part of a very proud history, and that knowledge adds focus to every decision we make.”
The recent appointments to the partnership and across the wider team have further embedded these values, and the firm has seen a significant increase in headcount during the course of the celebrations. Pearson-Kendall is clear that the firm’s growth is founded on the confidence and loyalty of its clients.
“The endorsement and positive feedback from our clients is the cornerstone of our development,” he said. “It drives our continual pursuit of excellence across the firm and provides invaluable insight into our strategy and future plans.”
The anniversary was marked with a programme of events across the region. Andrew Jackson was one of the main sponsors of Hull’s Freedom Festival in both 2024 and 2025, bringing world-class performances to the city and celebrating Hull’s diverse cultural heritage.
As part of the festival in 2024, the firm hosted a performance from international theatre company C!rca at Hull Minster, combining music, light and acrobatics in a performance, which showcased dedication and professionalism while bringing a special cultural moment to the city.
The firm also supported Yorkshire County Cricket Club fixtures in Scarborough, hosted regional economic discussions as part of Humber Business Week, and held a series of client and colleague events to mark the anniversary across its offices.
Reflecting on the significance of these activities, Pearson-Kendall added: “It felt appropriate to celebrate with clients, colleagues, networks and friends across the region we call home. At the same time, our involvement in such a wide-ranging programme of events reflects our commitment to the communities we serve and our role in supporting growth and culture in the region.”
Looking ahead, the firm continues to expand its capabilities and service offering.
“Having welcomed 14 new partners during the celebratory period, our evolution continues,” Pearson-Kendall said. “We are ensuring momentum is maintained through fresh ideas and new talent, whilst our shared commitment to quality and service informs every decision as we look to the future.”