On 4 March 2026, Ison Harrison Solicitors will proudly host the Fourth Annual Employee Owned Law Conference, bringing together employee owned (EO) law firms from across the UK for a day dedicated to knowledge sharing, candid discussion and collective inspiration. This year’s event takes place at Aspire, Leeds, followed by an evening meal at the iconic Queens Hotel. We are delighted to confirm Howdens Group as the event’s 2026 headline sponsor.

A Day Led by Experts in Employee Ownership

This year’s conference will be chaired by Robert Camp of Robert Camp Consulting, a longstanding advocate for EO models in the legal sector. Robert will guide delegates through a thought provoking agenda shaped around the theme “Points of Difference” ‑ a standing advocate for EO models in the legal sector.

Exploring What Makes EO Law Firms Distinct

The theme “Points of Difference” encourages delegates to explore what truly differentiates EO law firms – not just in structure, but in behaviour, values, leadership and long-term vision. Throughout the day, participants will share experiences of what has worked well within their EO organisations, as well as honest reflections on the challenges and learnings along the way.

The conference continues to build on the momentum of previous years, creating an important space for open dialogue among firms committed to the principles of employee ownership.

The programme features two major keynote contributions:

  • EO Worldview – James de la Vingne, Employee Ownership Association

James will explore the wider EO landscape, offering a perspective on what sets EO organisations apart.

  • “Who paid for that teabag?” Law Firm Culture and the Cost of a Cuppa – Nicola Jones, Athena Professional

Nicola will examine the cultural impact of employee ownership.

Interactive Breakout Sessions for Peer Led Learning

As in previous years, dynamic breakout sessions will offer practical, role specific discussions designed to spark meaningful exchange.

  • Finance Directors’ Session: Profit Distribution, Founder Debt & Financial Freedom
  • Trustees’ Session: Communication, Influence & Decision Making
  • Founders’ Session: Adjustment, Frustrations & Communication

Underwriters’ Insights – John Wooldridge, Martin Ellis and Colin Taylor, Howden Group

We are also pleased to welcome John Wooldridge, Martin Ellis and Colin Taylor from Howdens Group, who will share how underwriters view employee owned businesses. Their session will offer a clear, practical overview of how EO structures are assessed in the insurance market, the factors that can strengthen an EO firm’s risk profile, and the opportunities employee ownership presents when engaging with insurers.

An Afternoon Tea Discussion with Paul Cogan, Bettys & Taylors Group

A highlight of the afternoon will be a dedicated session with Paul Cogan, Collaborative CEO at Bettys & Taylors Group, one of the UK’s most admired long‑standing purpose led businesses. Over afternoon tea, Paul will share insights into sustaining a successful culture, ensuring financial resilience, and balancing business performance with strong employee engagement.

An Evening to Connect and Celebrate

After a day rich with ideas and conversation, delegates will come together for an evening meal at The Queens Hotel, Leeds – a chance to continue discussions informally, forge new connections and strengthen the collaborative network that supports the EO legal community. We’ll round off the evening with an insightful after dinner talk from Simon Weaver, Manager of Harrogate Town Football Club.