On 8th January, the shortlists for the Northern Power Women awards were announced. There were over 900 nominations for the awards, which will be held on 18th March, and we are delighted that our very own Haley Farrell, Director and Head of Family Law at Broudie Jackson Canter, has been shortlisted for Mentor of the Year! Haley strives to make a positive difference to her mentees as well as her team, and is thoroughly deserving of this shortlisting! Good luck Haley - you're a winner in our eyes!

I cannot stress the importance of mentoring enough and I am so proud to be a part of a business that champions the development of its people - we have a very successful in-house mentoring scheme that is now in its second year! A number of our senior leadership team and their commitment to their mentees is inspiring! 

I am really lucky to have been mentored by some amazing people since starting my career, especially in the last couple of years at the Jackson Lees Group. I have learnt so much, both personally and professionally, and the influence that my mentors have had on my career has been more than I could have ever imagined. 

The Jackson Lees Group is a people focused business. Our people are always happy to stop for a coffee, give advice and guidance to anyone who needs it and really do look out for each other. That's something that I feel incredibly proud of going into my new role as Head of Culture & Employee Engagement. 

So, no matter what stage of your career, it is so important to have someone to turn to. Whether that be for guidance, a nudge in the right direction or for emotional/mental support. I have no doubt that our mentoring scheme will grow from strength to strength and that our company will see the benefits of it everyday.

Mentoring really does #MakeAPositiveDifference!