Our People
Our Team
Our senior team helps new acquisitions, partner firms and recruits to map out their future and build the business or career that works best for them. From initial discussions, right through to implementation and the ongoing management of your business, our specialists are on hand to help you make the most of your business.
We also have an in-house Training Team who offer a structured career development program. They combine hands-on legal experience with industry-leading training to ensure all Group staff have the knowledge and expertise needed to excel in their roles. Our HR and Recruitment teams are another integral part of the Group. They facilitate the continued growth of the business, ensuring the seamless integration of new staff, as well as helping existing staff with any issues they may be experiencing.
Jon Bostock
Group CEO
Jon Bostock
As a qualified Chartered Accountant, Jon previously held senior roles in both national and local independent accounting firms. In 2003, he made the switch to the legal sector, joining PM Law, initially as Group Head of Finance and Administration. He later progressed to become a Partner and Group CEO.
As the group continues to grow, Jon leads the long-term strategy aimed at improving the synergies between the different businesses within the group. To do this, he works closely with the senior management team as well as the owners and senior managers of the group businesses.
Harvey Harding
Group Managing Director
Harvey Harding
Harvey is a highly experienced solicitor, having first practised as a litigator and then specialised in private client and property (commercial and residential). As Group Managing Director and part of the Executive Team, he is jointly responsible for formulating and delivering on the group strategy. Harvey is a strong believer in the use of technology to ensure clients receive a seamless, straightforward, quality service.
Harvey has worked in the legal profession for over 20 years and qualified as a solicitor in 2001. Upon joining the firm, Harvey launched our (now) award winning residential and commercial conveyancing business, PM Property Lawyers, which now operates nationally. He later became Group Managing Director to support in shaping the future strategy of the business.
Having a varied background in national and smaller firms and having built and grown PM Property Lawyers from scratch, Harvey is now focused on applying the learnings from that business across the group and to our new acquisition and joint venture partners to make the most of the opportunities within their businesses. As Group Managing Director, Harvey’s broader remit now includes working with and on mergers and acquisitions and contributing to the overall group strategic plan and a wide range of specific projects across the group.
Harvey is a qualified solicitor, licenced conveyancer and IMI-accredited mediator. He is also a Fellow of the Chartered Management Institution, was co-founder of the UK Legal Tech Association (UKLTA), the Sheffield Legal Hackers Movement and Unconventional Legal (a legal tech consultancy and events business). He was also a director and board member of the Conveyancing Association for 6 years (the leading trade association for real estate in the UK).
Outside of work, Harvey is an active charity fundraiser and in recent years has completed several Marathons (including London), the Ride London 100-mile cycle sportive and Swim Serpentine events, raising tens of thousands of pounds for local charities in the process. Outside of this, he loves his motorbikes (riding and racing), judo (fighting and coaching) and when not doing this, running around after his 3 kids and menagerie of animals.
Richard Helsby
Managing Director – PM Law
Richard Helsby
Richard started his current role in December 2020, having previously been responsible for the litigation department in Proddow Mackay. He’s been with the PM Law Group for over 25 years.
The most important part of Richard’s role is ensuring that clients receive the exceptional service that they’ve come to expect from PM Law. Richard gets a lot of enjoyment out of making the work lives of his colleagues better – he sees this as an effective way of getting the best out of them.
The fact that the business is dynamic and ever-changing means Richard is always having to adapt, keeping things fresh and exciting. His role means that he always needs to be looking ahead and has to stay agile so that the business can evolve as required.
Richard is a lifelong supporter of Liverpool FC and is a season ticket holder for Warrington Wolves RLFC. He’s also a keen runner and recently completed the Leeds marathon.
Sharon West
Consultant – Lexelle
Sharon West
She has been responsible for running and developing the business, emphasising building and growing client relationships and improving the product range regarding coverage and pricing.
Sharon has 35 years of experience within the insurance industry and has an excellent track record for delivery. She joined Lexelle in February 2014 and has worked for insurers and insurance intermediaries, including high street brokerages. Her previous experience also includes working at UK General, HBOS and Barclays Bank.
Sharon finds great joy in helping the business grow. She has a natural ability to build a positive rapport with new clients, contributing greatly to the continued growth and overall success of the Group. In addition, Sharon is always looking to support her colleagues in their development by offering her guidance and experience to them whenever possible.
In her spare time, Sharon is an avid golfer and can often be found improving her game on her favourite courses in the local area.
Dennis Langley
Managing Director – Lexelle
Dennis Langley
Dennis is a key member of the management team with responsibilities to not only Lexelle, but also external companies and the wider Group.
Dennis is one of Lexelle’s longest serving staff members, having joined us in 2001 after gaining more than 10 years of experience working in senior claims at Willis, Direct Line and Norwich Union.
Dennis is a highly skilled practitioner with a long history of dealing with personal, motor, commercial and civil litigation claims. In his position, Dennis oversees the operations of Lexelle, ensuring all areas of the business are functioning effectively and as intended.
In terms of his personal interested, Dennis is a true car enthusiast. He regularly attends Le Mans Motor Racing Festival in France.
Sabyta Kaushal
Director & Solicitor – PM Law
Sabyta Kaushal
Sabyta Kaushal is a highly skilled and experienced Director / Solicitor at PM Law. With her extensive knowledge and expertise in the field, Sabyta has become a respected figure in handling catastrophic and serious injury claims, including those arising from clinical negligence.
Sabyta graduated from the esteemed College of Law Chester, where she acquired a solid foundation in legal principles and practices. Following her graduation, she joined PM Law Ltd in 1990, embarking on a remarkable career dedicated to fighting for justice on behalf of her clients.
Recognising the significant impact that catastrophic injuries can have on individuals and their families, Sabyta is committed to providing comprehensive support beyond legal representation. She is well-versed in coordinating rehabilitation assistance for her clients, facilitating access to the necessary medical and therapeutic services to aid in their recovery and improve their quality of life. Sabyta understands the importance of holistic care and works tirelessly to ensure her clients receive the support they need during the challenging post-trauma phase.
Throughout her years in the legal profession, Sabyta has achieved notable success in managing a variety of complex cases. Her track record speaks for itself, reflecting her exceptional advocacy skills and ability to secure favourable outcomes for her clients. Sabyta’s clients appreciate her compassionate approach, unwavering commitment, and unwavering determination to achieve justice on their behalf.
Sabyta is an active member of professional associations and stays up to date with the latest developments in her field. By participating in relevant training and professional development programs, she ensures her knowledge and skills are at the forefront of legal practice. Sabyta’s dedication to her profession extends beyond her work with clients as she actively engages in community initiatives and organisations, contributing her time and expertise to make a positive impact.
Sally O’Brien
Group Deputy MD
Sally O’Brien
Sally’s main role is to support Harvey as Group MD, but the role also carries responsibility for a few other key areas in the business. Sally oversees the Risk Management and Compliance section of the business and coordinates the integration of New Acquisitions and Umbrella businesses within the PM Law Group.
Sally qualified as a solicitor in 1998 and practised in personal injury litigation for over 20 years before moving into risk and compliance.
Sally joined the PM Law Group as an EL/PL Team Manager in the personal injury department following an 18-month career break following the birth of her twin boys. Having been a salaried partner in her previous firm, Sally was looking for a role within a business where she could use her legal knowledge but also maintain a viable work/life balance.
Sally enjoys the variety that comes with her role and feels fortunate to work with such a talented, friendly and knowledgeable team who always keep her on her toes. Sally strives to be respectful, courteous and will always be there to listen and provide support to her team when they need it. The most important part of Sally’s role is ensuring effective communication and management of change while also giving relevant support and guidance in relation to risk management and regulatory compliance.
Outside of work, Sally loves watching football, both on TV and in the stands at Bramall Lane. She can also be found on the sidelines cheering on her children in their football teams and is a keen supporter of the England cricket team. Sally enjoys cooking, eating out and loves reading historical fiction whenever she can find a peaceful corner or a lounger in the sun.
Tracy Harding
Managing Director – PM Property Lawyers
Tracy Harding
Tracy works closely with the senior management team to ensure we have the right systems, policies and procedures in place to deliver the best service we can to our clients.
Tracy has 17 years’ management experience within the legal industry.
Tracy Harding is a highly dedicated and accomplished professional, serving as the Managing Director of PM Property Lawyers in Sheffield. With her exceptional leadership skills and extensive experience in the legal industry, Tracy plays a pivotal role in driving the success of our firm and ensuring that our clients receive the highest level of service.
As the Managing Director, Tracy brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. She holds a deep understanding of property law and has successfully navigated the complexities of the industry for many years. Tracy’s strategic vision and unwavering commitment to excellence have helped establish PM Property Lawyers as a trusted and reputable name in the field.
Outside of her professional life, Tracy finds joy in nurturing her passion for peacocks. Known for their vibrant and majestic plumage, Tracy takes great pleasure in caring for these magnificent creatures, providing them with a safe and comfortable environment to thrive.
Andrew Crookes
Director of Processes & Systems
Andrew Crookes
Andrew thrives on finding process improvements and is a big advocate of marginal gains. He joined the PM Law Group at a time of expansion, where having the correct processes in place is critical to its continued success.
Andrew’s first job was working for Lloyds Bank before joining a local high street insurance broker in 1988. This led to a career in various parts of the personal injury sector, primarily medico-legal reporting and rehabilitation. Since then, Andrew has managed teams of various sizes very successfully.
Andrew has always received consistently high levels of feedback for his caring and empathetic management style. He uses this to great effect, listening to colleagues and understanding the challenges they face and identifying ways to support them.
Andrew loves the variety that his role brings and is a big advocate of honest and clear communication. He thinks these attributes, combined with this approachable manner and a willingness to listen, make him effective in his role.
Andrew’s true passion is road cycling. He hopes to one day hire a camper van and follow the three-week Giro d’Italia. He is a lifelong Sheffield Wednesday supporter and spends match days with his son. Andrew also has four wonderful grandchildren who always keep him on his toes.
Carol Ann Coates
Human Resources Manager
Carol Ann Coates
Carol Ann manages the Group’s Human Resources function, alongside a team of three, working across the Group, working with all stakeholders in the business. This can mean anything from the Onboarding function right through to employees leaving the business and beyond.
Carol Ann qualified in 1993 with a Diploma in Human Resources from Leeds University and has worked in HR ever since. Prior to this, she also received a degree in History from the University of Birmingham. Carol Ann has had HR roles at Sainsbury’s, a foundry, and was also part of the team that opened the Royal Armouries in Leeds. In addition, she’s worked at GNER designing train drivers’ job descriptions and also at Hammonds Direct.
Carol Ann joined the Group in October 2003 looking for the opportunity to enhance the profile of a HR team in a well established company. Back then, the office was in Sheffield city centre and the focus of work was very different to what it is now.
Carol Ann loves the variety that her role brings – no two days are ever the same. Not only that, but she also gets a lot of fulfilment from using her personal skills to achieve the targets that the company sets. Carol Ann understands the importance of an HR department being approachable yet honest, something that she succeeds in doing at the PM Group.
Outside of work, Carol Ann is often busy driving her two boys to various activities. When she gets some spare time, she’s a big fan of catching up with friends over brunch.
Rachel Boam
Recruitment
Rachel Boam
Rachel is responsible for driving the full spectrum of group recruitment and selection activities. She has created and implemented talent acquisition strategies for hiring at all levels as well as coordinating staff reward and recognition policies and procedures.
Rachel partners with other leaders in the Group to track the ongoing hiring needs of the business. She also drafts job specifications, screens potential candidates, conducts interviews and manages the recruitment process alongside relevant stakeholders.
Rachel came to the PM Group for the opportunity to be a real advocate for a business. She has always had a keen interest in law and people, which is highlighted by her goal of becoming a Recruitment Director or Director of People.
Rachel is really grateful for the trust put in her by the PM Group – she knows she’s trusted to have the autonomy to do what she does best. Rachel believes that the most important part of her role is sourcing the right calibre of talent at the right time, the first time.
Bold in nature and approach, Rachel is an innovative thinker who brings a modern and constructive perspective. She’s ambitious with a performance-driven mindset and is often described as a “breath of fresh air” by her colleagues. Her natural tendency to challenge the status quo helps to uncover blind spots within the business and, ultimately, leads to improved efficiency and performance.
Rachel’s ability to handle multiple projects with strict deadlines makes her incredibly reliable and a true asset to the Group. She is always looking to champion candidate experience, equality/diversity hiring, company branding and to hire the best talent that the industry has to offer.
Outside of her busy work life, Rachel is a keen cyclist who enjoys travelling whenever possible. She also regularly volunteers, most recently assisting ex-veterans get in to housing and employment.
Steven Sutherland
Head of Group Training
Steven Sutherland
Steven was initially drawn to the PM Group by the people. He was friendly with some PM employees and knew they shared the same common values and ethos for how a Law Firm should work. Their energy and passion for helping consumers of legal services really impressed Steven.
Steven loves helping others, especially when he’s able to create learning opportunities that allow others to flourish. Seeing people develop and reach their full potential is the most fulfilling thing for Steven.
It’s all about the people for Steven. He cares a lot about everyone at PM and takes his responsibility seriously when it comes to training. Steven is always looking to help people grow and be the best versions of themselves. He also hopes that his colleagues will agree that he’s someone who works hard for them. Steven is always seeking to do things the right way while having fun at the same time.
Outside of work, family is the most important thing for Steven. He’s married with two children and can usually be found watching them play football or taking them to see Rotherham United. Steven is in to sports himself, regularly playing a bit of competitive table tennis. He’s also an avid collector of vinyl records.
Sarah Thornton
Non-Contentious Training Manager
Sarah Thornton
Sarah started her legal practice in 1996 and went on to qualify as a solicitor in 1998. She has worked in a variety of law firms from small high-street practices to large national conveyancing firms over her career. Sarah first made the move to a training role in 2004 and joined the PM team in 2018.
Sarah was initially attracted to the PM Group’s vision and commitment to Learning and Development for everyone. For Sarah, nothing beats a great training session where everyone gets involved and really benefits from the learning experience.
Sarah’s main goal is to help everyone at the Group progress in their career and fulfil their potential, whether that’s at the beginning of their legal career or to help further hone their existing knowledge and skills. Sarah strives to present lively, interesting training sessions – but it’s not always easy! She loves helping our people understand not just what they have to do, but why, and why everyone is a crucial part of the process.
Sarah loves music and goes to live concerts whenever she can. She plays the Tenor Saxophone and is part of a number of groups in her local community, along with her daughter, who plays clarinet. Sarah also enjoys yoga, walking and quizzing – just not all at the same time!
Nicola Crossley
Group Training Manager
Nicola Crossley
Nicola Crossley is a dedicated professional at the PM Law Group who specialises in creating and delivering training courses focused on conveyancing topics. Her expertise includes the development of a highly successful Leasehold Programme, which has proven to be instrumental in enhancing the team’s ongoing learning and professional development. In addition to her training responsibilities, Nicola takes charge of delivering a comprehensive monthly conveyancing update.
Through this initiative, she ensures that all members of the conveyancing department remain well-informed about crucial subjects impacting the industry and the organisation. Another crucial aspect of Nicola’s role is her mentorship of apprentices within the firm. She goes above and beyond to offer valuable guidance and support to these apprentices throughout the duration of their apprenticeship, helping them grow and succeed in their professional journeys.
Nicola Crossley has a diverse professional background that encompasses various legal domains. Prior to becoming a qualified Solicitor in February 2008, she gained significant experience and training in handling litigation, family, crime, and primarily conveyancing matters. In 2014, Nicola expanded her expertise by obtaining a CIPD qualification through the successful completion of a level 5 course in Human Resource Management. This additional qualification further enriched her skill set and complemented her legal knowledge.
Since 2016, Nicola has been actively involved in the role of a Legal Trainer. This position allows her to combine her extensive understanding of Property Law with her passion for working with people. As a Legal Trainer, she imparts her knowledge to others, benefiting aspiring legal professionals and contributing to the growth of the legal community. Her dedication to sharing her expertise and facilitating the development of fellow legal practitioners makes her a valued asset to the PM Law Group.
Having prior experience working alongside Steven and Sarah, Nicola Crossley expressed a strong eagerness to join the team and collaborate with them in fulfilling the training vision for the group. Her familiarity with her colleagues and their shared commitment to training excellence make her an enthusiastic and valuable addition to the PM Law Group.
Nicola has a profound passion for working with people, particularly those who are new to the legal profession. She finds great joy in witnessing their growth and development throughout their careers. Training, supporting, and mentoring others are activities that truly resonate with her, and she takes immense pleasure in witnessing these individuals evolve into successful professionals under her guidance and encouragement. Her dedication to nurturing and empowering others makes her an exceptional Legal Trainer and a valuable asset to the team at PM Law Group.
In her personal life, Nicola Crossley is happily married and a loving mother of two young children. Being a devoted parent keeps her very occupied, and she cherishes spending quality time with her family. You can often find them together at the park, enjoying outdoor activities, or at a soft play area, creating cherished memories.
Whenever she manages to carve out some rare moments of solitude, Nicola indulges in her passions for dancing and reading. Dancing provides her with a creative outlet and a way to unwind, while reading allows her to delve into different worlds and gain new perspectives. Balancing her professional achievements with her family life and personal interests, Nicola leads a fulfilling and well-rounded life.
Kellie Watkinson
Systems and Software Trainer
Kellie Watkinson
Kellie is responsible for training the usage of various systems at PM Law Group, with a primary focus on the case management system. Her expertise lies in working closely with the Conveyancing departments in PM Property Lawyers and the different branches. In addition to this, Kellie plays a crucial role in providing induction to new starters at PM Property Lawyers, where she warmly welcomes them on their first day and assists in getting them logged on and settled in smoothly.
Kellie’s journey at the PM Law Group began at PM Property Lawyers in January 2019 when she joined the company as part of the post team. After demonstrating dedication and skill, she advanced to the administration team in August of the same year. Kellie excelled in her role within the administration team until the opportunity arose for her to join the training team. She accepted the offer and officially became a member of the training team in February 2023. Throughout her tenure at the PM Law Group, Kellie has continuously showcased her commitment to professional growth and development, making valuable contributions to the company’s success.
Kellie Watkinson began her journey at PM Property Lawyers, where she played an integral role in coaching and guiding new team members. Recognising her exceptional skills and dedication, she was offered the esteemed position of System Trainer within the training team, which served as a testament to the remarkable work she had already accomplished in her previous role.
Among her various responsibilities, Kellie places special importance on the induction work she conducts for PM Property Lawyers. She firmly believes in starting newcomers on the right footing, ensuring they feel well-prepared and enthusiastic about joining the team. Kellie’s personal touch during the induction process helps create a welcoming and encouraging atmosphere, fostering a positive experience for all new team members.
Outside of work, Kellie indulges in her passion for reading and enjoys spending quality time playing 8 and/or 9-ball pool with her housemate.