Kimberley is a Director who has been with the firm since September 2019. She is a solicitor in our Corporate and Commercial Department and specialises in all aspects of Employment Law.
Kimberley has over 10 years’ experience in her field. In her most recent role she led a large employment department in a Bristol-based law firm, expanding her experience further than just the technical aspects of the law. Kimberley has been involved in the realities of a commercial business from understanding budgets and financial forecasting, to the operational management of employees, as well as wider business strategy planning.
Kimberley has represented both employers and employees in employment tribunal proceedings, including conducting the advocacy. This has given her a huge advantage, as it has enabled her to gain considerable insight into how the Tribunal conduct the cases in practice. Kimberley draws on this experience when preparing her cases so she can present them in the most advantageous way. Kimberley has advised on and litigated all aspects of employment law, from unfair dismissals, TUPE, redundancies and restructures, to lengthy and complex discrimination and whistle-blowing cases.
Kimberley has a particular strength in providing regular advice and assistance on corporate support work, in particular advising clients on the implications of employees transferring to the employer as a result of a TUPE transfer. Kimberley also provides a range of HR support services to SME businesses, ensuring they are up to date with the constant evolution of employment law and to help them best protect their business in what can be a very complex area of law.
In order to gain a greater insight into challenges her commercial clients faced and to assist in the provision of supporting the HR function, Kimberley under took a level 7 CIPD Human Resources qualification. Kimberley remains a member of the CIPD and regularly keeps herself informed on HR developments. Kimberley has a particular interest in dealing with business restructures, change management projects and employee strategy and value propositions.
Outside of the workplace Kimberley enjoys spending time with her two children, and in particular enjoying outdoor activities. She also loves travelling and exploring cultures far and wide. Kimberley is a school governor and also a trustee of the Gloucester based charity, the Hollie Gazzard Trust.
Testimonials
"When you use a solicitor its usually in times of need, when you require expert advice and reassurance. This is exactly what our company has received from Hughes Paddison Solicitors and in particular Kimberly Whalen -Blake. Not only is Kimberly extremely well informed and professional; she is also personable and easy to communicate with. She responds to messages and emails promptly and goes over and above to assist. I would have no hesitation in recommending her services; and in the future, if necessary, I will definitely be calling on her expertise".
Sharon - UK Parking Design
"Hughes Paddison came highly recommended and they were not wrong. I am so glad I appointed Kim to represent me. It was a really difficult time and Kim swiftly and compassionately cut through to the crux of the issue and gave me such clear and great advice immediately. The outcome achieved was truly the best for myself and the organisation and avoided more stress for all parties involved, as it was solved very quickly. Most importantly for me, Kim handled the negotiations. The relief of handing this over to someone I completely trusted made a horrible situation much better. Many thanks to Kim and HP".
Anon
