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Department

Director

Robert Whitehead

Owner and Chairman

I started working with Barings as a consultant solicitor in July 2020, but leapt at the opportunity to acquire the firm and to take over the reins as Managing Director almost exactly five years later on 14 July 2025.

Previously, I was a Partner at Weightmans LLP, working between the Leeds and London offices dealing with high value insurance disputes for some of the world’s biggest insurers. Prior to that, I was an equity partner at Shulmans LLP (now part of Knights), where I worked for almost eighteen years, jointly heading up the Commercial Dispute Resolution team.

My personal legal practice was mostly litigation-based, acting principally for insurers and MGAs dealing with disputed claims, coverage issues and advising on policy wordings. I also deal with media/defamation/privacy claims, which I have been involved in for one particular client since 2001.

I have spent the last six years running my own business, consulting for law firms and acting as General Counsel for corporate groups.

As a senior business leader, I have many years’ experience of building and growing law firms, legal teams and B2B businesses, including various one-off projects/assignments as well as “total immersion” consultancy. I have a hands-on approach to problem-solving, crafting bespoke and innovative solutions in order to break through (or go around) barriers to success.

Questions With Robert Whitehead

Can you tell us an interesting fact about you?
When I was 17, I attended the Officer and Aircrew Selection Centre at RAF Biggin Hill for assessment and I was awarded a Royal Air Force Flying Scholarship; this allowed me to commence my initial pilot training after I finished my A levels.
What is your favourite thing about working at Barings Law?
We have a fantastic team of dedicated, hard-working colleagues at Barings who work tirelessly every day to deliver justice and win compensation for our valued clients.
Do you have any special achievements or certifications relating to law?
I feel extremely fortunate to have had a long and successful career to date, but my biggest achievement is completing the acquisition of Barings in July 2025; I am enjoying getting to know everyone,  leading the firm and developing our plan for the next phase in the firm’s growth.

Administrator

Administrator

Paralegal

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