On 4 March 2026 the Fourth Annual Employee Owned Law Conference hosted by Ison Harrison Solicitors took place at Aspire, Leeds, followed by an evening meal at the landmark Queens Hotel venue. With “Points of Difference” as the theme for this year’s event, employee owned law firms travelled from across the UK to attend a packed programme of contributions from inspirational speakers.

Attendees also participated in discussion, inspiration and knowledge sharing around the conference theme, which focused on the behaviour, values, leadership and long-term vision that makes employee owned law firms distinct, in addition to the employee ownership structure itself.

Here are some conference highlights from the day – in pictures:

 

Robert Camp, conference chair, speaking at the Aspire Banking Hall

Robert Camp, the chair of this year’s conference, speaking at the Aspire Banking Hall (1/2).

 

Robert Camp, conference chair, speaking at the Aspire Banking Hall in front of a projector screen.

Robert Camp speaking at the Aspire Banking Hall (2/2).

 

Noo Jones from Athena Professional speaking at the Aspire Banking Hall in front of a projector screen.

Nicola ‘Noo’ Jones of Athena Professional speaking on the cultural impact of employee ownership.

 

Conference attendees participating in discussion by a table.

Conference attendees participating in discussion (1/2).

 

Conference attendees participating in discussion by a table.

Conference attendees participating in discussion (2/2).

 

James de la Vingne from the Employee Ownership Association speaking in front of a projector screen.

James de la Vingne from the Employee Ownership Association discussed what sets EO organisations apart.

 

The Back Chat Brass band performing on stage at the Aspire Banking Hall.

Musical entertainment from the Back Chat Brass band.

 

Preparations for an afternoon of treats and insights

Afternoon tea included a session from Paul Cogan, Collaborative CEO at Bettys & Taylors Group, with insights into sustaining a successful culture, financial resilience, and strong employee engagement.

 

A table displaying Bettys cakes from the Bettys & Taylors Group afternoon tea session.

A selection of treats from the Bettys & Taylors Group afternoon tea session.

 

The conference concluded with an evening meal and after dinner talk from Simon Weaver, Manager of Harrogate Town Football Club at The Queens Hotel. This provided an additional venue for attendees to build on opportunities to collaborate and network with the EO legal community on the day.

The conclusion of the Fourth Annual Employee Owned Law Conference marked another successful day of employee ownership discussions and learning, with valuable contributions from the speakers.

Employee Ownership Advisor and the Annual Employee Owned Law Conference 2026 are brought to you by Ison Harrison Solicitors.

If you are interested in exploring how an EOT structure can benefit your business, download our guide or call one of our employee ownership solicitors on 0800 232 1620.

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