Freeths welcomes new Chief People Officer as it continues its focus on record growth

Leading law firm Freeths has announced the appointment of Chris Oglethorpe as its new Chief People Officer, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to its people and culture strategy. Chris succeeds long-standing HR Director Carole Wigley, who is retiring after 25 years at the firm. 

Working across the firm’s 13 UK offices, Chris will continue to elevate Freeths’ people-first approach, with a particular focus on workplace culture, talent retention and development, as well as supporting the implementation and delivery of Freeths’ operational strategy. Through his leadership of the firm’s Responsible Business team, he will play a central role in fostering an inclusive, high-performing environment.

Also, recognised for his ability to navigate complex change programmes and apply data-driven insights, Chris will work closely with National Managing Partner Karl Jansen to spearhead employee initiatives aimed at enhancing engagement and performance.

Joining from Gowling WLG, he brings with him more than two decades’ worth of senior HR and operational leadership experience across multiple sectors, including legal, financial services, telecoms and FMCG. His extensive wealth of knowledge has earned him a strong track record in leading business transformation.

Commenting on Chris’s appointment, Karl Jansen said: “We are delighted to welcome Chris to Freeths at a time of exceptional momentum and continued progress. His breadth of experience and seasoned insights will be instrumental in overseeing our firm’s HR functions, ensuring alignment with our financial and business strategy. With Freeths now more than 1,300 strong across 13 offices, Chris’s sector strengths and experience will help to drive forward our skills and capabilities, as an innovative, future-focussed firm.”

Chris Oglethorpe added: “I am excited to be stepping into my new role at Freeths at such a dynamic point in the business’s journey. The firm’s values-driven culture and clear commitment to its people are what attracted me to the role, and it’s clear to see that as a Certified B Corporation™, Freeths is leading the way in using business as a force for good. I look forward to working with the HR team and the wider business support teams to drive colleague engagement, performance and purpose.”

In recognition of its distinctive ethos and outstanding legal work, Freeths was named Law Firm of the Year at the prestigious City AM Awards 2025, following a year of landmark client successes. This accolade reflects the firm’s commitment to inspiring colleagues, serving clients and engaging with communities.