Spotlight On… Nick Palmer

Welcome to the first in a new series where you can get to know our staff and their specialisms better.

Nick Palmer

What is your role at Ashtons?

Partner in the corporate & commercial team, based in Cambridge.

How long have you been at the firm?

Since 8 January 2024.

Where have you worked previously?

I’ve worked in Cambridge for the last 10 years, most recently at Mishcon de Reya and before that at Taylor Vinters. Prior to this I worked down in London for 7 or 8 years and trained at what is now Hogan Lovells.

Who is in your team?

I’m part of the wider corporate and commercial team, so I interact with all of them, but I work closest with Mohammed Haleem in Cambridge.

Do you have any specialisms?

I am a collaborative corporate lawyer with a passion for working with owner-managed and family businesses. I’m part of the Owner-Managed Business & Family Business working group at Ashtons, whose mission is to encourage greater communication and understanding between the teams in order to maximise our client relationships, encourage cross-referrals and ultimately assist us all in delivering better client service. The core of my practice is business sales and acquisitions, though I also deal with restructuring, governance review and all kinds of general company and partnership advisory.

Did you ever consider a different career?

Yes! Until I was about 14 I wanted to be in the SAS, but I think I mellowed out after that and later seriously considered being a history teacher or a farmer.

If you could give your younger self some career advice, what would it be?

• Building business relationships really matters. They can be valuable (both ways) when you least expect it and they make the whole experience feel more human.
• Take ownership of what you do.
• Enjoy the ride.

Contact Nick Palmer for business advice

If your business needs practical and holistic advice on expansion, consolidation, exit potentials and more, please contact Nick Palmer by using our online enquiry form.