
Jessica Nugent-Herrett
Jess Nugent‑Herrett is the Business Development and Marketing Lead at Ridley & Hall, working across the firm to support sustainable growth, raise the firm’s profile, and strengthen relationships with clients, referrers, and the wider community.
Jess completed a BA (Hons) in History in 2016, followed by a Graduate Diploma in Law in 2017. She went on to complete the Legal Practice Course alongside an MSc in Business, Law & Management in 2018, the same year she began her career in the legal profession.
She commenced her training contract in 2022, gaining experience across Conveyancing, Wills and Probate, and Child Abuse. Jess qualified as a solicitor in August 2023 and was promoted to Associate in January 2025. During her time as a property fee earner, she received national recognition, including being named National Junior Lawyer of the Year 2025, alongside regional and national media coverage, including an interview with ITV Calendar and features in the Yorkshire Post.
In January 2026, following eight successful years in property law, Jess made a strategic lateral move into the firm’s leadership team as Business Development and Marketing Lead. In this role, she works closely with partners and colleagues across all departments to support strategic growth, champion innovation, and ensure the firm’s values are reflected in how it operates, communicates, and supports its people.
Jess is particularly passionate about creating an inclusive, supportive culture where colleagues feel confident developing their careers, sharing ideas, and getting involved beyond their day‑to‑day roles. She plays an active role in shaping internal engagement, employer branding, and initiatives that promote wellbeing, community involvement, and professional development.
Outside of work, Jess has a wide range of interests, including cooking, reading, gaming, professional wrestling and martial arts. She has studied Wing Chun Kung Fu for eight years and currently trains in kickboxing, reflecting her interest in discipline, resilience, and personal growth. An enthusiastic traveller, she enjoys exploring new cultures and has already visited destinations including Japan and China, with many more places on her bucket list.
Management Team

James Cook
Director,Head of Child Care & Public Law Team

Anthony Elston
Finance Director
Theresa Ferres
Associate,Client Services & Central Services Manager

Tracey Firth
HR Manager
Adam Fletcher
Business Development & IT Director
Emma Pearmaine
Managing Director