Solicitor – Admitted 2007
Fiona Pearson – extremely client-focused; very diligent; has a wealth of defendant-side insurance knowledge; very responsive.
Legal 500 2023
Fiona Pearson has just guided us seamlessly through the most testing of Professional Negligence cases. She is extremely professional, always calm, never patronising and possibly one of the most hard working and dedicated individuals I have ever met. I firmly believe that I would not have been able to continue down the extremely difficult path had Fiona not been walking beside me.
Legal 500 2023
Overview
As Head of Governance & Risk at Michelmores, I work closely with our Compliance Office for Legal Practice (COLP), senior leadership, and teams across both our legal and business services functions to ensure the Firm consistently meets its legal, regulatory and professional obligations. I also advise on internal decision-making to ensure alignment with our values and risk appetite. My role is integral to safeguarding the Firm’s reputation and integrity, while supporting our Lawyers in delivering outstanding service to our clients.
I lead the development and implementation of our risk management strategy, advising on regulatory compliance, risk management, best practice and disputes. I take a practical, solution-focussed approach to helping colleagues navigate complex compliance issues.
I also contribute to strategic and operational change initiatives across the Firm. This has included the redesign and expansion of our centralised Business Intake team to improve client onboarding while strengthening regulatory compliance.
Areas of expertise
Recent experience
Leading on critical business change projects, including the Firm’s onboarding process, to improve service delivery to clients while enhancing compliance
Working with the Firm’s Responsible Business group and ESG Coordinator to launch Michelmores’ Planet Mark certification and sustainability programme
Coordinating the Firm’s response to emerging regulatory developments
Leading on the development of internal training programmes on risk and compliance
Overseeing the review and updating of the Firm’s risk and compliance policies and procedures
