Fisher Jones Greenwood LLP CEO, Paula Fowler, said she felt “honoured” after winning two prestigious accolades at this year’s National Business Women’s Awards.
Paula won both the Gold Award for Business Woman of the Year in the £10m - £25m turnover category, and the prestigious Gold Lifetime Achievement Award.
Now in their fourth year, the awards aim to recognise and celebrate the achievements of women in business across the UK, with this year’s event taking place at the Leonardo Royal London Tower Bridge Hotel on Friday 25 October.
Axel Koelsch, Chief Operating Officer at Lawfront, which acquired FJG in 2021, praised Paula’s success. He said:
“This is a fantastic achievement, acknowledging Paula’s hard work and dedication over the years. She has certainly set a very high standard for leadership.”
Tony Fisher, Chairman of FJG, added:
“These awards are richly deserved. Paula is an extraordinary businesswoman who has transformed FJG into one of the most respected law firms in the southeast and a top 100 law firm group.
“Since joining us 14 years ago, Paula has expanded our services, client base, and revenue while fostering a culture of diversity, inclusion, and collaboration.
“She is an exceptional leader, visionary entrepreneur, and a role model for women in business.”
Paula’s professional journey is inspiring. Beginning as an office junior in 1983, she joined FJG in 2010 as Practice Manager, advancing to Managing Partner in 2011. After serving as Chief Operating Officer, she became CEO earlier this year.
During her tenure, she has overseen FJG’s transformation, growing its annual turnover from £2m to £10m.
Reflecting on her award success, Paula remarked,
“It’s incredibly humbling to be recognised alongside so many accomplished women in business. My goal has always been to inspire and support emerging entrepreneurs, particularly women from disadvantaged backgrounds, to reach their full potential.
“To be shortlisted for these awards, and to win them, is an honour that reinforces my commitment to this purpose.”
Paula’s impact extends beyond financial growth. Under her leadership, FJG has introduced flexible working options, menopause and first-aid training, and initiatives promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace culture.
These efforts have earned FJG recognition as one of the Sunday Times “Best Places to Work” and the award for "Best Health and Wellbeing Initiative (under 750)" from People in Law.
Paula has also advanced female leadership within FJG, promoting senior female lawyers to Partner and establishing an Executive Board that reflects her commitment to merit-based advancement. Balancing her career, Paula has raised three children and earned an MBA.
Photo credits: Dean Rossiter Photography.
