Joanne Dalton joined MSB Solicitors in September 2000, when the firm was a close-knit team of around 30 people. She came on board as Senior Legal Finance Manager, a department of one at the time, and quickly made her mark. Over the years, she has built the finance function into a thriving team of six, playing a key role in shaping the operational backbone of the firm.
Joanne’s responsibilities naturally evolved as the firm grew. She expanded her knowledge into IT and HR, both of which are now fully developed departments with dedicated Heads and support teams. Through years of dedication, leadership and strategic contribution 2010, she became MSB’s first non-lawyer partner.
Her impact at MSB reaches far beyond finance. Joanne has led numerous office relocations as the firm expanded across Liverpool, Cheshire, Manchester, Chester and Birmingham. She introduced the firm’s apprenticeship and solicitor apprentice schemes, driven by a personal passion for mentoring those coming into the legal profession through non-traditional routes. For her outstanding contribution, she was named Practice Manager of the Year by the Law Society.
Working closely alongside Managing Partner Emma Carey, Joanne has played a central role in MSB’s continued growth and success. She takes great pride in seeing junior team members thrive, many of whom she supported all the way to partnership.
As Compliance Officer for Finance and Administration (COFA), Joanne ensures MSB remains compliant with regulatory standards while maintaining strong internal controls in finance, risk management, fraud prevention, and cyber security. She continues to be a driving force behind the firm’s operational excellence and inclusive culture.
