On Tuesday 25th May 2021, professionals from across the conveyancing sector came together to celebrate the successes and achievements of the industry at The British Conveyancing Awards 2021.
The inaugural awards took to the virtual stage, and were led by the fabulous award winning broadcaster and journalist Samira Ahmed. If you want a re-cap of the action, the recording is available to view here.
As part of our winner spotlight features, we want to shine a light on those who have been crowned in first place at this year’s event.
Today we profile Manish Patel, Crane & Staples who won the New Business Champion of the Year award.
About the award
Conveyancing firms receive instructions from a variety of source, panels, estate agents, mortgage brokers, builders and housing associates as well as direct from consumer. This individual should demonstrate an excellent conversion rate against target whilst intelligently managing the expectations and needs of their introducers balanced with the pressure on those delivering the conveyancing work.
Over the last 12 months the individual must have demonstrated:
- Extensive development and progress as a Conveyancing firm in the last year, including, but not limited to: strategy, growth, financial performance, employee development, diversity and training
- Have evidence of active engagement with community and/or corporate initiatives
- That they are operating in the best interests of the client and the profession.
The judges commended Manish saying:
“Manish sounds like an amazing solicitor! The numerous examples of reviews from clients, referrers and colleagues was hugely impressive. Manish has developed and fostered very strong relationships and I like the way he is keen to mentor and train more junior colleagues. His client references are faultless and it was great to see an example of how he had gone above and beyond to secure a result for clients in a Covid-secure way.
Elisha Birgul from Taylor & Emmet LLP was highly commended in this category and Hannah Johnson from Aconveyancing securing third spot.
How did you feel winning the New Business Champion of the Year Award?
I felt a sense of achievement and pride for the hard work put in by the department over the years, which has led to the reputation we have.
Tell us about your team and the services you provide?
We have a fantastic team of senior solicitors, junior and trainee solicitors, and paralegal and support staff all led by dedicated and supportive Partners. Together we provide residential and commercial property and conveyancing services.
How has your firm developed in the last 14 months and navigated the added complexity of the coronavirus pandemic and SDLT holiday?
We have always worked well as a team but the pandemic and SDLT holiday has shown our resolve and tenacity. We have also added to our already advanced IT systems to make us even more efficient.
What’s next on the cards for you?
Firstly, a well-deserved break after the SDLT holiday, and then as things begin to open up again, I would like to start networking more and expand the firm’s network.
What advice would you give someone thinking of joining the conveyancing sector?
Do not pay attention to the negativity about conveyancing. It is a crucial aspect of the economy and people’s lives. It may not be glamorous but you are making a difference with every completion.
This is the very first British Conveyancing Awards, which recognises the herculean efforts of the industry, why do you think these awards are so important, especially after the last 14 months?
I believe they show that there are people out there who appreciate the hard work done by the entire conveyancing sector which includes the fee earners, support staff, and associated ancillary services.
Everyone at Today’s Conveyancer congratulates all those who entered this year’s awards.
Join in the conversation #BCAwards2021
