Two City high-flyers have been attracted to leading Hampshire law firm Phillips Solicitors.

Jack Gardener and Max Hope join as Directors and shareholders at the firm based in London Street, Basingstoke.

They say they see huge potential in the firm, for its outstanding client relationships, trusted county and regional practice, and opportunities for further growth generated from its close proximity to London.

Jack, who previously worked at global law firms Clyde & Co and White & Case as an experienced employment and commercial solicitor, said: “I am hugely excited to be joining this very strong team and helping to take Phillips, which my father helped to set up 32 years ago, into the next phase of its successful life.

“Phillips has an outstanding reputation for very high quality lawyers working with businesses and individuals across Hampshire and the surrounding counties, as well as advising and working with successful City businesses. We are joining at an exciting time of growth in the regional market. It’s an opportunity not to be missed.”

Max, who worked with Jack at Clyde & Co, joins Phillips following a successful career in the City, working for some of the world’s leading law firms, including Linklaters and CMS. Most recently Max was Assistant General Counsel to MS Amlin PLC. He brings with him a wealth of experience in contentious and non-contentious corporate and commercial matters.

Max also served as an officer in the British Army, both with the infantry on operations in Afghanistan, and subsequently as a lawyer advising the Army on international matters.

He said: “Just like working in the armed forces, with businesses and advising clients, the goal is at the centre of everything we do. Clients want you on the front-line with them, not removed on the sidelines. That’s the Phillips ethos, and it’s one of the aspects that attracted me to the firm.

“Phillips invests in long-term client relationships, really listening to clients, getting to know them and working hard to deliver their goals. This is what makes Phillips a great law firm to have on your side.”

Senior Director, Howard Gardener said: “The addition of Jack and Max to the Phillips team marks a significant investment in the bright future of our firm. They bring strength and depth to our commercial, employment and litigation teams, and we are looking forward to the journey with them.”