February 2024 represents a very special month for us here at Bygott Biggs, as Director, Legal Recruitment Specialist and Cycling aficionado David Mayfield enters his 20^th Year with the company. As he reflects on this milestone achievement, David says

“It’s safe to say when I first walked through the doors of Bygott Biggs 20 years ago, the world was a very much a different place to that which it is today, and I, a very different person within it...”

At that time, the majority of our work was with private practice law firms and the relationships David began to nurture then have matured and strengthened over two decades and David has long become a trusted and geniuine partner to his clients.

“David, in a word, is outstanding. His 20 years in the profession is a true testament to his ability, reputation and just being an incredibly brilliant human being. What really stands David apart from his peers is his ability to operating as a genuine ‘partner’ to the resourcing team and the firm’s partners – working with David feels like working with a colleague. His work has had a significant impact on the firm’s ability to grow in line with it’s ambition.''

Tom Lyas, Head of Resourcing Browne Jacobson.

David's knowledge of the market and depth of connections is unrivalled . As a result he is able to reach out and engage with exceptional candidates even in a highly competitive market.

“We have worked with David for many years. His professionalism, understanding of our business needs and long-term approach to client relationships means we have succeeded in finding top end legal candidates to help grow the business and increase the pool of exceptional talent at Gateley.” 

Beth Mather, Head of Corporate, Gateley Legal

As the legal profession has evolved the work we do here at Bygott Biggs has also shifted shape and reflects the rise in in-house legal opportunities. Much of our work is now in helping commercial organisations grow their own in-house legal teams.

''I was contacted by David in 2021 whilst working in London. There was a vacancy in Nottingham for a Group General Counsel. I found David very easy to talk to and incredibly honest. I have stayed in touch with David and contacted him to not only directly recruit into my team but to also seek advice on the structure of my team. I believe David has taken the time to understand the business I work for and I find him incredibly knowledgeable.''

Steve Thompson, Group General Counsel, Ideagen

Over the years many of the candidates David worked with as they were starting out on their careers have gone on to become Hiring Partners or Heads of In-house Legal teams and it is testament to the strength and success of their earlier relationship that has led to them becoming Bygott Biggs clients of the future.

''Wow 20 years….that must be hundreds of people who have benefitted from David’s knowledge, ability, dedication and professionalism. David has helped me secure two important career moves and found brilliant candidates for my team who have been star performers.Well known throughout the region, lawyers in this area are fortunate to benefit from his counsel and extensive network.”.

Michael Astle, Executive Director, Legal Affairs, Quotient Sciences

Looking forward at the legal market and predictions for the year ahead, David comments that there has been a strong start to 2024 with demand from both private practice law firms and in-house legal teams. Certain disciplines remain in high demand, for example specialists with expertise in commercial areas such as construction, commerial contracts and IP or in private client disciplines like family and wills & probate are highly sought after.

For anyone wishing to discuss their career progression or to hear how we may be able to help your team grow please don't hesitate to get in touch with David by calling him on 07980 866403 or emailing david@bygott-biggs.co.uk.

''David and the team are a great asset to the local and UK legal market, and I wish them all the best on their continued work over the next 20 years!”

Mark Wood, Senior Office Partner, Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP

Here's to the next 20 years David!!!

Best wishes

Jane Biggs

Managing Director

Bygott Biggs