As we mark the retirement of Lisa Greenwood, it offers a moment for both celebration and reflection. Lisa’s career at Lambert Chapman LLP has spanned 35 years, during which she has been a constant presence, a dedicated professional and a valued colleague and friend. Her journey from a shy junior to a respected Partner embodies the very essence of commitment and professional development.
Lisa joined the firm in 1990, starting her career at our Coggeshall Road office in Braintree. At the time, it was a close-knit team where resources were limited and traditions still shaped the workplace – such as the now outdated dress code that did not permit women to wear trousers. This made for an interesting first-day discussion as Lisa attended both of her interviews in a trouser suit.
Assigned a desk once used by the only office computer, Lisa quickly settled into her role under the guidance of her colleagues. The accounts team, then sharing a small room, became an early training ground where Lisa absorbed the fundamentals of the profession, particularly thanks to the support of Chris Watkin. As the firm transitioned to bigger premises at Warners Mill, the building we still occupy 34 years later, Lisa’s aptitude and work ethic were already well evident.
Through the 1990s, Lisa embraced an expanding workload with growing confidence. Long before digital systems became commonplace, she would manually prepare schedules for contractor clients late on Friday afternoons, producing quality work with impressive speed and accuracy. Whether completing last-minute tasks or assisting with on-site client visits (including the odd mishap such as a run-in with a client’s dog or a colleague’s trapped finger), Lisa remained undeterred and dependable.
In July 2002, following the retirement of founders Mike Lambert and Lloyd Chapman, Lisa was invited to join the Partnership. Her promotion reflected not only her technical competence but also her growing influence within the business. Over the next two decades, she would take on numerous responsibilities, overseeing client relationships, supporting office development across our three offices at the time in Braintree, Chelmsford and Maldon, and providing guidance to new Partners and staff.
Lisa has always had an excellent rapport with clients and contacts, maintaining strong relationships throughout her career. As HR Partner, she also brought a firm but fair approach to employee matters. Her own journey through professional qualifications achieved outside of today’s apprenticeship framework and completed with just evening and weekend study is a testament to her discipline and resolve.
Lisa’s leadership came into particular focus during the challenges of COVID-19. As the firm rapidly adjusted to new ways of working, Lisa oversaw vital elements of our operational response. She played a key role in implementing the furlough and job retention schemes, ensuring continuity for both staff and clients through unprecedented times.
Beyond the boardroom, Lisa also contributed to the firm’s unique culture. For many years she was a central figure in our team-building initiatives, bringing humour to video skits and performances enjoyed by staff and clients alike. Whether playing Sybil in Fawlty Towers, Betty in Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em or starring in our own nativity play as Mary, Lisa always gave a memorable performance and often stole the show.
While Lisa now steps back from day-to-day client responsibilities, she will continue to support the firm in a consultancy role for the next 12 months, contributing to partnership matters during the transition. Her experience, calm authority and knowledge will remain a valued resource.
As colleagues, we will miss the day-to-day interaction with someone who has helped shape the firm’s character and growth over three and a half decades. We thank Lisa sincerely for her contributions and wish both her and her husband Dave the very best in the years ahead.
Nick Forsyth
Managing Partner
Surprise! Office celebrations at LisaFest 2025..
As if we were going to let the day pass unnoticed! On June 24th, the team pulled off the ultimate surprise – without Lisa suspecting a thing, we closed the office for the afternoon and headed into London by coach to crash her leisurely stroll along the Southbank.
What followed was an afternoon of scares, sauerkraut, and celebration as LisaFest officially hit the capital!
Watch our video on YouTube >> https://youtu.be/hgYFZ1edw2A
Disclaimer
The views expressed in this article are the personal views of the Author and other professionals may express different views. They may not be the views of Lambert Chapman LLP. The material in the article cannot and should not be considered as exhaustive. Professional advice should be sought in connection with any of the issues contained in the article and the implementation of any actions.