Member Spotlight: Ben Daniels, DAC Beachcroft

Occasionally we like to shine the spotlight on our members, and in this case one of the members of the Bristol Initiative. We sat down with Ben Daniels, Partner and Bristol Location Head, DAC Beachcroft.

Tell us about your role – what do you have responsibility for? What does a typical day look like? 

I have three primary roles. Firstly, I am the Location Head for DAC Beachcroft’s Bristol office. This is about representing the firm at a local level; establishing a workplace where our colleagues feel supported and empowered. It’s a mix of leadership and collaboration - not just amongst colleagues, but across the wider business community as well. 

My second role is as head of our Professional and Commercial Risk group in the UK regions – essentially all commercial litigators and professional indemnity lawyers who practice outside of London.  

Last, but not least, I have my own practice to maintain, which is the resolution of commercial disputes on behalf of a variety of national and regionally based clients. 

No two days look the same. One morning I might be in client meetings or in court, and later I could be managing the team, or getting involved in recruitment or business development activity. The variety of the role and the many hats that I wear is why I love the role. 

I have recently been elected to become the firm's next Senior Partner. I will start the position in May and it is a five year term. That shift means that my focus will move to shaping the direction of the firm as a whole and helping to drive our continued growth in the UK and internationally. Despite taking on a role with a strategic overview across our whole business (and much of my time will be spent in London and our other offices), Bristol will remain my home and this city and its community will continue to be at the heart of what I do. 

What does your organisation do? Why do you like working for them? 

DACB is an international law firm offering a full range of legal services. Our Bristol office is the biggest in our UK network and we are one of the largest professional services employers in the city. We’re proud to showcase incredible legal talent here in the South West. 

What I really enjoy is the variety and impact of the work we do. Our lawyers handle nationally significant matters that influence policy and shape the future of the profession. Plus, the culture here is fantastic - collaborative, innovative, and focused on making a difference. It’s not just about solving problems, it’s about helping our clients and communities thrive. 

Why have you joined the Bristol Initiative? 

I believe in the power of collective action to drive positive change. Bristol is a dynamic, forward-thinking city, and the Initiative provides a unique platform for collaboration on issues that matter most, including economic growth, sustainability, and inclusion. 

For me, it’s about playing an active role in shaping a future where opportunity is accessible to all. Whether that’s supporting skills development, championing diversity, or contributing to regeneration projects, I see the Initiative as a way to amplify impact through collective effort. 

What are the key agendas that you’re looking forward to getting involved with? 

I’m particularly interested in initiatives that focus on skills and talent development. Attracting and retaining exceptional people is critical for Bristol’s long-term success, and I’m keen to support initiatives that build pathways into careers. 

I’m passionate about innovation, which is an area in which I believe Bristol can lead nationally.  

My offer to members is collaboration: sharing insights, partnering on projects, and working together to create solutions that benefit the wider community. When businesses unite behind shared goals, the results can be transformative. 

Where is your favourite place to visit in Bristol? 

Not necessarily to visit - but Temple Meads Station stands out for me. It’s more than a transport hub, it’s a historic landmark and a symbol of connectivity.  

Our new office in The Welcome Building sits right at this gateway and I now enjoy a fantastic view of the station from my desk (which can be distracting at times – even though I promise you I'm not a train spotter!) 

If I'm being cheeky, I also enjoy visiting Bristol Rovers' Memorial Stadium – but in the away end, watching my beloved Lincoln City. A happy hunting ground (although not until relatively recently!) 

If you'd like to follow Ben on social media you can do so on Linkedin here, and you can follow and find out more about DAC Beachcroft there too. Also if you are a member of The Bristol Initiative and would like to be featured in a blog just like this one then you can get in touch with me or Jenny.