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Andrew Ashley-Edwards
As Managing Partner of Martin Tolhurst Solicitors, I lead the strategic direction, culture, and performance of one of Kent’s most respected and progressive law firms. My role is dedicated entirely to managing the firm, driving sustainable growth, digital transformation, and client-focused innovation in a rapidly evolving legal and business landscape.
I am committed to ensuring Martin Tolhurst Solicitors remains a forward-thinking, people-first law firm delivering high-quality legal services with clarity and commercial relevance. My leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that modern law firms must balance tradition with progress, evolving continuously to meet the changing needs of clients, colleagues, and communities.
Leading the Future of Legal Practice
Since joining the firm in 2012 and becoming a Partner in 2015, I have played a central role in shaping our commercial offering, previously leading the growth and transformation of our Commercial Department. While I no longer take on client casework, my 15+ years of experience advising SMEs, family-run businesses, and entrepreneurs informs the way I lead, with a clear understanding of business realities, a strong focus on team culture, and a commitment to continuous progress.
Today, my role is focused entirely on firm leadership, including:
- Driving strategic growth and ensuring operational excellence
- Enhancing the client experience through service innovation and digital tools
- Building firmwide talent and leadership capability
- Embedding sustainable business practices aligned with our Net Zero objectives
- Safeguarding our firm with robust cybersecurity and compliance frameworks
- Leading the responsible integration of AI in legal services
- Strengthening our culture with a focus on empathy, integrity, and collaboration
Cross-Firm Leadership
I actively contribute to the strategic evolution of the firm through participation in several cross-functional committees:
- Marketing Committee – developing brand visibility and digital strategy
- Corporate Sustainability Committee – advancing environmental and ethical best practices
- Cyber Risk Sub-Committee – maintaining resilience in digital and regulatory security
- AI Sub-Committee – exploring and implementing artificial intelligence responsibly in legal practice
What I Stand For
I entered the legal profession to offer businesses and communities accessible, meaningful advice. Although my current role is no longer client-facing, that ethos continues to guide how I lead. My focus is on people and outcomes, rather than hierarchy, complexity, or tradition for its own sake.
Whether championing sustainability, evolving our use of technology, or mentoring future leaders, my goal is to build a law firm that is not only fit for today but ready for tomorrow.
Outside the Office
Outside of work, you will usually find me in the kitchen, in the garden, at a gig or comedy show, or exploring Europe, especially the Greek Islands where I recharge and reflect.
If I weren’t a lawyer?
I would be on a sun-bleached beach, selling vegan doughnuts and watermelons to tourists and probably still talking business.