Legal technology expert joins Ward Hadaway as Director of IT

Ward Hadaway has announced legal technology expert Jonathan Smith has joined the firm as its Director of IT

Jonathan has worked in the IT industry for more than 20 years and has spent his career advising law firms on infrastructure and leading on change development and technology implementations across the North.

He has led the firms he has worked at through countless technology advancements over 20 years, including successfully implementing practice management and digital dictation systems across the UK as well as telephony and mobility projects and general infrastructure overhaul.

Jonathan is regarded as a thought-leader in various aspects of legal technology, expertise he will share as he consults with Ward Hadaway’s people to improve operations and technology strategies.

Over the next 12 months, projects are set to include Windows 10/Office 2016 desktop roll-out (including hardware), improved mobility options and a number of projects to improve efficiency and leverage the investments Ward Hadaway has made to date.

He said: “I am thrilled to join Ward Hadaway as the firm celebrates 30 years since it was established in Newcastle, a time when mobile phones had shoulder straps and families actually spoke to each other at the dinner table!”

“Legal technology is constantly evolving and does pose challenges, such as the constantly evolving security landscape, the ever-increasing need for fast, reliable data on the move and the challenge that comes with meeting the expectation of the next generation of tech-savvy lawyers.

“Having worked in this area for two decades now, I appreciate the firm’s approach of providing practical solutions that have a meaningful impact for both its lawyers and clients.

“I look forward to adding to the firm’s strategies for adopting innovative solutions and advancing technology initiatives that will promote Ward Hadaway’s ongoing growth and success in the future.”

Jonathan’s appointment comes as Ward Hadaway was reaccredited its CyberEssentials Plus certification this month. The firm remains one of just a handful of law firms across the UK to achieve the accreditation. The high standard is further commitment by the firm to ensure client information, interests and data are kept secure.

Jamie Martin, managing partner at Ward Hadaway, said: “We are delighted to welcome Jonathan to our team and we know we will benefit greatly from his knowledge and expertise at a time when the sector is embracing change in how it uses technology.

“He has a wealth of experience in the legal sector and having someone of his calibre recognise the value that we deliver and want to be a part of our growing team only reinforces that we are on the right path in our approach to IT.”