Reanne Martin, Practice Manager at Sleaford-based ELMS Legal, began laying the groundwork for legal expertise straight out of education.
“I studied maths at university, and I joined ELMS as soon as I left. I’ve been here ever since!” Martin reflects. Now, nearly seven years later, her role within the firm has evolved significantly from her initial position to that of Practice Manager.
Starting as a litigation assistant, Martin entered the legal field at an entry level, a humble beginning that provided fundamental knowledge for the heights she would eventually reach. It was an opportunity that allowed her to step into the workforce and demonstrate the transferable skills honed during her time at university. “the skills that I acquired at university have proven useful and serve my job here very well,” she explains, highlighting the analytical and problem-solving abilities that have been instrumental in her success.
In her current role as Practice Manager, Martin is the linchpin of management information, meticulously recording “everything we do.” Her mathematical acumen has been pivotal in streamlining operations and enhancing team performance, contributing to the firm’s growth. “I’ve helped grow the company through the seven years I’ve been here,” Martin states reflecting on the expansion of the team and the business since her arrival.
Reanne’s Journey to Leadership
For Reanne, every obstacle she has faced during her leadership trajectory has only contributed to her growth. “Personally for me, the hardest thing has been growing into management and being a younger person,” Martin shares. At 27, she finds herself navigating the complexities of dealing with clients who are predominantly middle-aged individuals, a dynamic that has tested and honed her ability to communicate effectively despite the age gap.
Martin reflects on the impact of these interactions on her leadership skills, “It’s helped in a sense that it doesn’t matter who I’m speaking to. I believe that I can still portray myself in the best way possible.” This adaptability has been crucial as ELMS Legal evolved from an advocacy firm to encompassing debt recovery and litigation, and more recently, landlord tenant work.
The legal sector is in flux, with significant legislative changes on the horizon affecting parking law and landlord tenant law. Martin is acutely aware of the need to stay informed, “Both of the biggest sectors that we deal with are having huge changes currently that we’ve got to keep an eye on and stay informed about.” Her proactive approach ensures that ELMS Legal remains prepared to navigate these changes, embodying the flexibility that has become a hallmark of her leadership style.
Fostering Growth
When it comes to how she envisions her future at ELMS, Reanne sees a future where her leadership fosters an environment of continuous growth and accessibility. “My personal plans are to continue here and move on up to executive level,” she states, underscoring her commitment to ensuring her personal growth is in alignment with the firm’s advancement. Martin’s collaborative work ethic with the owner and the Managing Director, Ed Shoreman-Lawson, displays her dedication and hints at her seamless integration into the executive tier at the firm.
Martin’s legacy at ELMS Legal is one of mentorship and empowerment, “I like to go around and see what people are doing, helping them and giving them tips and tricks because I’ve done their job, I was once in their position.” Her experience in various roles within the firm equips her with unique insights, enabling her to guide her team effectively.
At the heart of Martin’s ethos is a hands-on approach to staff development, “A big part of my job is training my staff, no matter what level they’re at.” Reanne ensures that she maintains an open-door policy, a stark contrast to the traditional corporate hierarchy. “We don’t have a negative hierarchy,” Martin explains. “You can help everybody, and that just makes the business better as a whole.”
As she looks to the future, Martin’s plans for ELMS Legal are clear: to continue nurturing a culture where every member of staff, regardless of their tenure or position, feels valued and supported. It’s a legacy that not only enhances individual performance but also strengthens the firm’s collective expertise and service quality.
