When Nigel Smith became a partner at Dorset law firm Ellis Jones Solicitors in 1992 the average house price was £53,213, interest rates stood at 6.88% and inflation was 3.74%.

Aged 28, he became one of the youngest equity partners in the country at the time and took his first step to become managing partner just seven years later. 

Now Nigel is celebrating his 30th anniversary of becoming a partner at the law firm, which has more than 170 staff including 21 partners.

His rise from trainee solicitor to managing partner has set in place a meritocratic and supportive culture at Ellis Jones where employees are encouraged to seize career opportunities and fulfil their potential.

Nigel said: “I first started at the firm in 1986 as a trainee solicitor, known as an articled clerk back then!

“I was keen to progress and was given the opportunity to do so. At the tender age of 28, I became one of the youngest equity partners in the country and from day one I was very much part of the management of the firm.

“I assumed the role of managing partner in 1999 and have been allowed to develop into that role.

“I am committed to creating an environment where everyone is encouraged to achieve personal excellence and to giving everyone in the firm the opportunity to further their careers in the same way in which I was.

“That philosophy is reflected in the fact that more than a third of the partners and half of the associates in the firm started here as trainees. Long may that continue!”

Nigel added: “There have been many changes over the past 30 years but the drive for excellence and commitment to the highest standards remains the secret to our success at Ellis Jones.

“I feel privileged to have reached this milestone and look forward to more years ahead leading the firm’s team of talented and dedicated lawyers, including many who have also given long and distinguished service.”

Nigel, who is married with three grown up sons, two step daughters and a grandson, qualified as a solicitor in 1988 after joining the firm in 1986.

He is a former president of the Bournemouth & District Law Society and a professional trustee for numerous trusts. Nigel won the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Dorset Legal Awards in 2018.

Ellis Jones has offices in Bournemouth, Poole, Swanage, Wimborne, Ringwood and London - www.ellisjones.co.uk/

PANEL: 1986

Liverpool won the FA Cup

Argentina lifted the World Cup

British Gas shares were floated on the Stock Exchange

Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson married

First episode of Casualty aired on TV

Wallis, Duchess of Windsor died

PICTURE: MILESTONE: Nigel Smith is celebrating his 30^th anniversary of becoming a Partner at regional law firm Ellis Jones Solicitors