EXPANDING law firm mfg Solicitors has made three associate promotions across its private client, employment and agricultural divisions.

Amanda Piper, a wills, probate and lasting powers of attorney specialist, has been promoted to associate within mfg’s private client division. Mrs Piper, a chartered legal executive, has been with the firm since 2003 and led a variety of private cases over the past 13 years, including many relating to the Court of Protection.

Also promoted to associate is employment law expert Kate Jones. Recognised for her advice to both commercial and individual clients, Mrs Jones has been with mfg’s employment and HR services division, which is led by partner Sally Morris, since 2010.

Alexandra Phillips, a land and farm business specialist in the firm’s award-winning agriculture and rural affairs division, also becomes an associate and will continue to work closely with partner and head of division, Iain Morrison. Miss Phillips has been with department for three years and in 2014 was voted Young Solicitor of the Year by Worcestershire Law Society.

Maynard Burton, partner and chairman of mfg Solicitors, said: “All three promotions are fully deserved and each have excelled, especially in recent years, showing the level of professionalism and dedication our clients expect.”

The three associate appointments come just under 12 months since the launch of mfg’s successful ‘Rising Stars’ programme, an internal initiative which identifies and nurtures talent within the firm’s junior ranks. Twenty solicitors are now part of the performance and development scheme, including the three new associates, which is co-ordinated by James Jarvis, the firm’s operations director.