Irwin Mitchell appoints Oliver Collett as Regional Lead Partner for Yorkshire and the Humber

Irwin Mitchell has appointed Oliver Collett as its new Regional Lead Partner for Yorkshire and the Humber, as the firm strengthens its leadership team across key UK regions. 

Based in Leeds, Oliver is a Partner in the firm’s Asbestos and Occupational Disease team and has more than 20 years’ legal experience. He joined Irwin Mitchell in 2017 and is widely regarded as a leading expert in occupational disease litigation across the Yorkshire region. 

Irwin Mitchell has c.250 colleagues, including 28 Partners, across its Leeds and Aske offices with private client, business, public law, court of protection, medical negligence and personal injury specialists.  

In his role as Regional Lead Partner, Oliver will be responsible for supporting the continued growth of Irwin Mitchell’s presence in Yorkshire and the Humber, strengthening relationships with clients, partners and local communities, and ensuring the firm continues to deliver high-quality legal services across the region. 

Irwin Mitchell is well-embedded with the Yorkshire and Humber community and enjoys strong partnerships with organisations such as Day One Trauma Support, STEP, and Yorkshire and Leeds Playhouse, where a there is a shared commitment to making culture and creativity accessible to as many people as possible. The relationship has helped deliver hundreds of accessible performances and initiatives including relaxed and dementia-friendly shows, while also supporting the theatre’s wider redevelopment and long-term future in the city. 

Oliver Collett said: 

“I’m proud to take on this role at a time when Irwin Mitchell continues to grow its presence in Yorkshire and the Humber. Leeds has a strong legal and business community, and we are committed to supporting clients across the region with expert advice and a genuinely supportive approach.” 

Oliver is recognised by the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) as an accredited Senior Litigator and specialist in asbestos and occupational disease claims. He has particular expertise in complex cases involving mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer and other serious lung diseases, including silicosis. 

Known for his technical excellence and attention to detail, Oliver has consistently secured significant compensation for clients, regularly recovering in excess of £2 million in damages each year. This includes securing vital funding to support access to private treatment and care for clients living with life-limiting conditions. 

With a strong reputation for collaborative working, Oliver excels at bringing together diverse teams and external partners to create added value for clients. His approach not only strengthens client relationships but also contributes to the firm’s growth ambitions and the continued success of the Yorkshire economy.