Who I help

Owner-managed Businesses. SMEs. Family-owned Companies. Management Teams. Investors. High-growth Businesses. 

How I help

Mergers & Acquisitions. Technical Legal Expertise. Relationship Management. Solving Complex Matters. 

Sectors/Support

Professional Services. Technology, Media & Telecoms. Industrial & Manufacturing. Construction & Real Estate. Health & Social Care. Hospitality & Leisure. Food & Drink. 

“Practical advice. Commercial thinking. Real relationships.” 

A Corporate Director at our AAB Cardiff office, Leanne Thomas supports business owners, management teams and investors on transactions. To help her clients achieve success, Leanne helps business owners navigate some of the most important decisions they will ever make – whether that is acquiring a business, securing investment or achieving a successful exit. 

Leanne understands the importance of communication, simplicity and trust in corporate law and builds strong client relationships. With a positive attitude to problem solving, she tackles complex situations with an organised, pragmatic and calm approach. This enables her to help clients navigate the legal and commercial aspects of making important business decisions. 

Leanne has advised on transactions ranging from owner-managed business sales to ten figure international mandates.  

No Two Weeks Are the Same

“In my role, no two weeks are ever the same, which is one of the things I enjoy most about corporate law. My role involves advising business owners, management teams and investors on a broad range of corporate transactions and strategic matters. That can include mergers and acquisitions, restructures, shareholder matters, employee ownership trusts, investments and general corporate governance advice. 

A typical week might involve negotiating transaction documents, leading client calls, managing deal timetables, collaborating with accountants and tax advisers, and helping clients navigate both the legal and commercial aspects of important decisions.” 

Helping Clients Achieve Something Meaningful

“I was drawn to corporate law because I genuinely enjoy problem solving and working closely with people. I like understanding how businesses operate and helping clients achieve something meaningful, whether that’s growing a business, securing investment or completing a successful exit. 

What really appealed to me was that corporate law sits at the intersection of strategy, relationships and technical expertise. No two clients or transactions are the same, and I enjoy the pace and variety that brings.”

Relationships Built on Trust 

“I build strong client relationships through responsiveness and honesty. Clients need to know that you are available, proactive and transparent, especially during stressful or time-sensitive matters. I also think it’s important to communicate in a way that clients actually understand rather than relying on overly technical language. 

The strongest client relationships are built on trust over time. One example involved supporting a business owner through multiple stages of growth, from early restructuring work through to a significant transaction. What made the relationship work was consistent communication, understanding the client’s priorities and being seen as a trusted adviser rather than just a lawyer brought in for a single deal.” 

Navigating Uncertainty

“The most rewarding aspect of being part of a team at AAB is there’s a genuine focus on relationships, both internally and externally, which creates a supportive environment and ultimately delivers better outcomes for clients. 

A large part of the role is helping clients navigate uncertainty and make confident decisions. I’m also always keen to continue developing my strategic and leadership skills as I progress in my career. 

Helping clients achieve milestones that genuinely matter to them. That might be selling a business they’ve spent years building, securing investment for growth or resolving a difficult issue that has been causing stress. 

Being part of those moments and helping make the process smoother is incredibly rewarding. 

The collaborative culture and the ability to work alongside specialists across different disciplines to provide joined-up advice for clients.”

Making Complex Situations Manageable 

“I recently supported a client through a transaction involving a number of competing commercial priorities and tight deadlines. The challenge was balancing risk management with maintaining momentum to get the deal completed. 

By keeping communication clear, remaining commercially pragmatic and working closely with all advisers involved, we were able to help the client reach a successful outcome within the required timeframe. Clients have said that I make complex situations feel manageable and that they feel reassured having me involved in a transaction.” 

The Importance of Communication 

“One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of communication and expectation management during transactions. Even technically straightforward deals can become challenging if communication breaks down or parties lose trust in the process. 

I’ve learned that staying calm, transparent and solutions-focused helps move matters forward more effectively. Clients remember how you made them feel during difficult moments just as much as the legal outcome itself. 

For me, the biggest common misconception about my profession is that lawyers only focus on technical legal points. Good corporate lawyers also need to understand people, strategy, negotiation and commercial realities.”

Commercial Awareness & Client Support 

“I bring a combination of commercial insight, relationship-building skills, and the ability to stay composed and focused on practical solutions under pressure. 

I’m also highly proactive and approachable, which helps clients feel supported throughout a transaction. Most importantly, I genuinely care. It’s a privilege to be trusted with client work and I always ensure I give of my very best.”

LOOKING AHEAD

“I’m particularly interested in how technology and AI can improve efficiency and client experience within legal services, while still maintaining the personal relationships that are so important in this profession.”