Phil finds the recipe for success

When you’re in charge of one of the region’s largest law firms, it’s important to find a way to switch off.

For Phil Wilding, managing partner at Leamingtonbased Wright Hassall, he finds solace in the kitchen most evenings as his way of unwinding.

But his approach to cooking is not dissimilar to his philosophy on business.

“If the focus is on absolute perfection, then you’ll never get there,” he said. “You’ll paralyse yourself.

“Sometimes, I really enjoy the process. One of the family will choose what we’re having and I’ll give it a go. The first question is: ‘does it taste okay?’ If the answer is yes, then that’s great.

“It’s not Michelin-starred food or anything, just good family food but it’s a nice way to relax. It can be Asian themed or Italian, or something a bit more fancy. Sometimes it is super creative and other times it is boring and mundane.

“The important thing is to give it a go and not wait until you think you’ve perfected a dish before you decide to make it or else you’ll never start.”

Phil gives a similar message to the Wright Hassall team when it comes to new ideas and improving processes.

He stepped into the role of managing partner in January 2022 – succeeding Sarah Perry after her six-year stint.

Phil recognised that – like any professional services business – the key asset was the company’s people and getting the best from them was fundamental to success.

He set about shifting the dial on the culture within the firm resulting in Wright Hassall being named a Great Place to Work in 2024, based on staff feedback.

“Wright Hassall is nearly 180-years-old, which means there is a lot of history so it’s not about individuals but everyone working together to serve that name and all of our clients,” he said.

“One of my main focusses when I came into this role was to improve the culture.

“As the world was becoming more competitive, we needed to make sure this was a great place to work so it was a very deliberate policy.

“I wanted everyone to know that they could get things out on the table and that they could ask me anything. Anything.