Commercial law firm Laytons ETL appoints new director of human resources

The internationally focused City of London commercial law firm Laytons ETL has appointed Harsha Kansagra as its new director of human resources.

In her new role Ms Kansagra will implement new systems and develop consistent processes and protocols at Laytons ETL.

She will also oversee the development of a range of staff wellbeing initiatives at the firm, which this year celebrates its 150th anniversary, and review its reward offering.

Ms Kansagra, who has 18 years’ HR experience, joins Laytons ETL from Duncan Lewis Solicitors, where she was HR manager. She has worked almost exclusively for businesses in the legal sector since 2012.

Commenting on her appointment, Ms Kansagra said, “Laytons ETL is a firm with a proud history and an exciting future, with a powerful, and growing, focus on international markets. It has ambitious growth plans, and I am thrilled to be able to play a part in delivering these by ensuring its people have the support and career progression they need while ensuring the firm’s culture and values remain at the heart of its operations.”

In her previous roles Ms Kansagra has spearheaded automation across HR activities, including the implementation of a self-service HR portal, launched new employee benefits and introduced a range of progressive employment policies. She also supported her previous employer’s implementation of the SQE qualification route for trainees and coordinated the launch of graduate solicitor apprenticeships.

Rebekah Parker, deputy managing partner at Laytons ETL, said, “Harsha’s appointment marks an important step in our evolution, as we continue to experience significant growth in our headcount. Her experience and achievements are exceptional, and I look forward to working with her over the months and years to come, both to streamline our processes and to ensure we continue to provide an outstanding offering to our people.”

Laytons ETL, which has seen significant growth since the pandemic, became part of the ETL GLOBAL network of professional services businesses in 2021. Last year it moved to new Grade A offices on Cannon Street in the City of London, doubling its footprint.