Meet the team
-
Simon Robinson
CO-FOUNDER
Chambers & Partners - 2025 Ranked
Simon co-founded Robinson Ralph with his wife, Juliet, after deciding that there had to be a better way to do employment law — one that was sharper, faster, more personal, and a lot less corporate. A straight-talking Northern Irishman with over two decades of experience in employment law, Simon is known for cutting through the legal waffle and getting to the point.
As the firm’s legal lead, Simon represents clients across the UK in all aspects of employment law — from complex tribunal cases to high-stakes strategic advice. He’s built a reputation for being tough when it counts, but always human — and for making clients laugh, even when things are tricky.
Simon’s style is anything but traditional. He doesn't believe in suits for the sake of it, and he’s never knowingly delivered a dull training session. His sessions are high-energy, practical, and full of real talk.
When he’s not working, as a lifelong Manchester United supporter, Simon can usually be found either at Old Trafford with his son or being forced to listen to Taylor Swift by his daughter — and occasionally both in the same day.
-
Juliet Ralph
CO-FOUNDER
Juliet co-founded Robinson Ralph with her husband, Simon, and has been running the operational side of the firm ever since — keeping the wheels turning and the ideas flowing, with a focus on growth, systems, people and culture.
Creative, determined, and a big believer in the power of connection, Juliet leads with heart and humour, making sure Robinson Ralph continues to feel more human than corporate — whether that’s through how we treat clients or how we support our team.
As well as co-running a business, Juliet has two kids and two dogs, and can often be found juggling school runs, work calls, and the age-old question: what’s for tea? Outside of work, she loves Agatha Christie and anything with cherries on.
-
David Sillitoe
PARTNER
Chambers & Partners - 2025 Ranked
David joined Robinson Ralph in 2019, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a calm, methodical approach to solving legal problems. His legal career began as an employment tribunals consultant at an HR consultancy, where he quickly discovered his passion for employment law. He then spent 13 years at a national law firm, advising both employers and employees, and led their Leeds employment law team for eight of those years.Known for his ability to cut through legal jargon, David excels at getting to the heart of complex issues and setting out practical options clearly and simply—something clients really value.
Outside of work, David is a regular at the gym and enjoys getting out on his mountain bike as well as watching both football and rugby.
Email David
David's LinkedIn -
Nick Wilson
PARTNER
Nick qualified in 2000 and has over 20 years experience as an employment lawyer.
-
Ellie Pook
SENIOR PARALEGAL
Ellie completed her Law degree in 2021 and worked as a paralegal following university. For the past 2 years she has worked in HR which reinforced her passion for Employment Law. Ellie is our paralegal and is training to qualify as a Legal Executive.
-
Keeley-Joanne Hodgson
SOLICITOR
Keeley qualified as a solicitor in 2025, having worked as a paralegal since 2018. Her passion for law started early, inspired by her A-level studies, university experience, and—of course—watching Legally Blonde.
During her training, Keeley particularly enjoyed her employment law seat, which reinforced her enthusiasm for helping businesses and individuals navigate workplace challenges. Approachable and detail-oriented, she is committed to providing clear, pragmatic advice.
Outside of work, Keeley is an avid diver, loves sushi, and enjoys travelling.
-
Daryl Smith
SOLICITOR
Daryl is a passionate Solicitor, first starting his career in employment law as a Paralegal in 2021. He qualified as a Solicitor in 2024 and brings years of experience advising both employers and employees through the ever-evolving world of employment law.
Whether he's drafting watertight contracts, dismantling a particularly aggressive grievance letter or breaking down the daunting world of employment law to clients, Daryl is all about making the law accessible, strategic, and even a little bit fun (yes, really!). He embodies the firm’s commitment to expert advice delivered with personality, professionalism, and just the right amount of humour to keep things human.
When he’s not navigating the finer points of employment legislation, you’ll likely find Daryl at Elland Road supporting his precious Leeds United, playing video games or attempting to explain to his friends, once again, what “constructive dismissal” actually means.
-
Abbie Ellwood
PRACTICE SUPPORT MANAGER
Abbie brings a wealth of experience to Robinson Ralph, having worked across crime, personal injury, construction law, and now employment. As our Practice Support Manager, she keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes — with a sharp eye for detail and an impressively organised approach to just about everything.
Calm, capable, and always on top of things, Abbie is the kind of person you want in your corner when things get busy.
Outside of work, she’s a keen badminton player and a proud cat mum to two brilliantly named felines - Squid and Miep, who keep her on her toes almost as much as we do.
Join the team
Do You Have Integrity, Enthusiasm, and a Sense of Humour?
If so, you're in the right place!
