👤 Meet the Director: James Barker
Title: Co-Founder & Director
Specialism: Private Practice | In-House | Legal Tech
Based: Altrincham, North West
👋 First off — tell us a bit about your background in legal recruitment.
Fair to say I fell into recruitment as is often the way. After 3 years in a different sector I made the decision to join a Legal Recruitment specialist where I progressed from Consultant to Director over a 9 year period. I soon found that business development was my favourite part of the job and solidified several key client relationships which are now friendships. Predominantly covered the North West private practice market, with a bias to the senior end.
🧭 Why did you decide to launch Barker Legal Recruitment?
Having established a number of key repeat clients over the last 9 years I felt it was time to take the leap. Amy (my wife) and I have highly complementary skill sets which I truly believe will give an unmatched service to our clients and candidates.
🎯 What’s your focus in the business today?
I typically focus on business development, by that I mean building long term relationships with both candidates and clients. My clients range from boutique and regional firm, in-house businesses to some of the largest law firms in the world.
🔍 What do you think sets your approach apart from other recruiters?
The feedback I have had is, that I am always honest, approachable and know things about my clients that others don’t.
If I look in the mirror and I am completely honest, I might not have the best memory for names and faces or be up to date with todays financial times but what you see is what you get with me, I will always be straight up with you and work tirelessly to get the result for you.
💬 What’s the most rewarding part of your role?
When a candidate or client moves from a contact to a friend. Well, between that and being able to develop business on some of the nicest golf courses in the country…
🤔 What advice would you give to lawyers thinking about a move?
Know your worth, 99% of the time a counteroffer is a bad move, always have multiple options and always always do your due diligence.
📩 Want to connect?
Feel free to reach out for a confidential chat — whether you’re exploring opportunities or just want to check in on the market.
📧 Email: james@barkerlegalrecruitment.com
