International Growth Continues At Wilkes With New Head of Planning

The Wilkes Partnership, has expanded its international reach by adding to its Planning team with Legal 500 named Leenamari Aantaa-Collier, as Partner and Head of Planning.

Leenamari is a renowned specialist in public and private sector areas, including work for the NHS on issues arising from applications, obligations, appeals and plan making. Her expertise also spans to litigation, energy subsidy issues and advising the select committee in the House of Lords on the conflict between the planning and licensing regimes.

At Wilkes Leenamari will use this experience to lead the planning team in navigating planning legislation for clients as well as working to grow the firm’s excellent reputation in both the private and public sector.

Leenamari Aantaa-Collier, Partner & Head of Planning at The Wilkes Partnership, said: “I’ve joined Wilkes because I know that the legal talent here is very strong and the culture right for me. After being at Wilkes earlier in my career, I feel like I am coming home and I want to help continue the good work that has been done for clients already as well as help grow the firm.”

“We have hit the ground running using our planning expertise to help clients diversify, use their land in innovative ways and adapt to become more sustainable businesses. Good planning law can unlock so much potential for both public and private sector businesses, and that is exactly what we aim to do for clients.”

Due to her wealth of experience overseas, Leenamari’s arrival bolsters the experience of The Wilkes Partnership in the UK, but also it’s offering abroad. Current Finnish consulate for Birmingham Leenamari brings strong links to business in Finland.

Nigel Wood, Senior Partner at The Wilkes Partnership, says: “Leenamari’s appointment is a crucial step in our development. During decades of legal experience, she has developed an international reputation for great work in planning across both the public and private sector – this will be priceless to the development of our planning team. Her business knowledge and connections in Finland will also prove valuable as our firm has been growing into new jurisdictions in recent years. We’re very happy to welcome Leenamari to the team and I’m looking forward to working with her.”