Partner promotion at Yorkshire law firm for first head of privacy and data protection

Law firm Gordons has further strengthened its leadership team with the promotion to partner of its first head of privacy and data protection.

Lauren Wills-Dixon, who joined the firm in 2020, is a specialist in privacy and data protection and commercial contracts across the retail; sports, media and marketing; and digital and technology sectors.

She also advises clients on privacy considerations relating to the use of emerging AI-driven technologies.

In 2024, Lauren was appointed as the firm’s first head of privacy and data protection. This was in recognition of her ability to build strong client relationships and consistently provide practical, commercial legal advice in this rapidly evolving area of law.

Since then, she has grown the practice area to have a diverse range of clients located across the UK. These include retailers Ocado, Moss and Wren Kitchens; market research organisation Mintel; global chemical company BASF; and Houseful, the parent company of property brands including Zoopla, Alto and Hometrack.

Lauren has also raised her profile and that of the firm by regularly providing commentary to national media outlets regarding privacy and data protection issues when they make the news.

Commenting on her promotion, Lauren said: “Gordons has provided me with the opportunities and support to grow professionally and personally, and becoming a partner lets me take that next step in the leadership of the firm.

“I’m grateful to colleagues past and present who have helped me develop and for being able to lead our privacy and data protection service from its inception.

“It’s now firmly established and continues to grow as we provide our clients with the commercially-focused advice they need to protect and grow their businesses.”

Employing 180 people, Gordons has its head office in Leeds. Some of the firm’s other clients include retailers AO, Iceland Foods and Morrisons, as well as drinks company Molson Coors and parcel delivery business Evri.

Welcoming Lauren to the partnership, Gordons managing partner Victoria Davey said: “Lauren is an outstanding lawyer who is highly regarded by colleagues and clients alike.

“She has continually proven herself to be of great value to all who work with her and is trusted by clients in relation to their data and business critical information, which is such an important asset. The extent to which Lauren can support our existing and new clients in this area will only continue to grow.

“We look forward to Lauren continuing to take great strides in her career whilst growing our privacy and data protection service for the benefit of our clients.”