Krista Powell and Stephen Faulkner, Napthens, p Napthens

Krista Powell has been appointed the head of Napthens Manchester office with the support of Stephen Faulkner, the law firm's managing director. Credit: via Napthens

Powell to lead Napthens Manchester team

1 December 2025 12:00 Julia Hatmaker Comments (0)

Krista Powell has left Brabners to take on the senior position at the Preston-headquartered law firm.

As head of Manchester, Powell is charged with leading Napthens’ newest office – the branch opened in September at Bruntwood Sci-Tech’s recently refurbished Pinnacle.

Speaking of Powell, Stephen Faulkner, managing director at Napthens, said: “She brings an exceptional background in commercial property law and is a key part of our growth strategy, building our presence in Manchester and creating a team that reflects the Napthens values.

“This appointment signals another major step forward in our commitment to providing clients with a first-class team to support their objectives and boosting the firm’s capability and presence in one of the UK’s most vibrant cities.”

For her part, Powell said Napthens’ growth trajectory and its ambition to expand throughout the North West was part of what drew her to the job.

Powell said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for me to grow the firm’s presence in Manchester and build a team of people who will serve our clients with diligence, by delivering innovative solutions to support the growth of business and contribute to the regional economy.

“I’ve been really impressed by how Napthens has grown in recent years, clearly demonstrating how the people and collaborative relationships they build give the firm a unique offering.”

Powell has more than 20 years of experience and a resume that includes past roles at Fieldfisher, Addleshaw Goddard, Gateley, and DLA Piper.

In addition to its new Manchester office and its Preston headquarters, Napthens has branches in Liverpool, Blackpool, Lytham, Kendal, and Southport. With more than 300 staff members, the law firm is part of Napthens Group.

Napthens Solicitors reported £22.6m in turnover for the year ending 31 March 2024, the most recent financial statement filed on Companies House. This was up £1.2m from the year before.