• Swindon & Wiltshire Appointments
• Tuesday February 17 2026

Regional law firm expands employment team

Swindon and Newbury-based law firm Gardner Leader has expanded its employment team with the appointment of strategic hires partner Michelle Morgan and senior associate Catherine Morris.

Michelle returns to Gardner Leader after holding roles at Shoosmiths and BCLP. With over 20 years’ experience in employment law across UK and international markets, she is consistently recognised as a Recommended and Key Lawyer in the Legal 500 Guide, the industry’s foremost directory of the best law firms and practitioners in the country.

Recognised as a trusted adviser to HR leaders and executives, Michelle advises clients from large corporates to regional businesses on all aspects of complex, employment-related matters relating to corporate transactions, and senior-level appointments and exits.

Her expertise also covers M&As, MBOs, and joint ventures, restructuring and redundancies, data protection, outsourcing and insourcing agreements, and restrictive covenants.

Catherine Morris joins from national law firm Knights, where she spent eight years with the firm and its predecessor practices.

Catherine specialises in employment-related litigation and dispute resolution, supporting clients throughout tribunal proceedings and civil court claims, including complex contractual and injunctive matters.

Drawing on extensive experience advising organisations in the franchising sector, Catherine also provides specialist guidance on the distinct employment challenges that arise within franchise networks, including employment status, processes, policy and procedures, and TUPE issues.

Michelle said: “It’s fantastic to be returning to Gardner Leader. It’s a law firm with an exceptional culture and a genuine commitment to supporting clients, whether they are a large multinational company or a local employer, through every stage of their journey.

“I look forward to adding my expertise to our highly experienced employment law offering and working with the team to deliver practical, commercially focussed advice that helps businesses navigate an increasingly complex HR landscape.”

Catherine added: “It’s great to be joining Gardner Leader at such a positive time for the firm. Its strong reputation, collaborative culture and commitment to delivering exceptional client service really stands out.

“I’m looking forward to working alongside the team and helping our clients tackle the unique, evolving challenges and opportunities shaping today’s workplaces.”

Vicky Schollar, partner and head of employment at Gardner Leader, said: “The addition of Michelle and Catherine reflects the continued growth of our team.

“Their combined expertise, strong commercial instincts and commitment to delivering outstanding client service and peace of mind will further strengthen our offering; ensuring we remain well‑placed to support businesses, employers and HR professionals from large corporate companies through to owner managed businesses with clear, strategic and forward‑thinking advice.”

Gardner Leader has been at the heart of the Thames Valley community for over 130 years, with offices in Newbury, Thatcham and Maidenhead, and has continued its growth across the south of England with offices in London, Windsor, Swindon and Oxford.