We are absolutely thrilled to announce that our very own Director, Jessica Rowson, has been officially recognised in the Acquisition International Influential Businesswoman Awards 2026.
Acquisition International Influential Businesswoman Awards
Following a rigorous, merit-led evaluation process, Jessica has been named the Leading Workplace Mental Health Law Businesswoman 2026 (UK)
This prestigious award celebrates women who are redefining leadership through innovation, resilience, and a commitment to driving global business forward.
For Jessica, it is a testament to over fifteen years of dedication to protecting the mental well-being of employees across the country.
A Career Built on Advocacy and Excellence
Jessica’s journey at Oakwood Solicitors is a story of remarkable growth and specialised expertise. Joining the firm as a Paralegal in 2010, she qualified as a Solicitor in 2013 and immediately identified a critical need for specialised legal support in the workplace.
She established a niche department focusing on Stress at Work claims, a field that, at the time, required a pioneer’s touch. Her impact was immediate:
- 2014: Promoted to Assistant Head of Department.
- 2016: Took over as Head of Department, expanding the firm’s reach into complex Psychiatric Injury claims.
- 2017: Promoted to Director in recognition of her unwavering dedication to the firm and her clients.
Beyond the Courtroom: A Thought Leader in Mental Health
What sets Jessica apart is her comprehensive approach to mental health law. She doesn’t just litigate; she educates.
Last year, Jessica furthered her expertise by obtaining a TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Awareness of Mental Health Problems and becoming a qualified Mental Health First Aider. Her influence extends into the public eye and the academic world:
- Media Expert: Jessica recently contributed her expertise to a BBC documentary regarding workplace sexual harassment and featured in the BBC short film, “How to tell if you’re being bullied at work.”
- Published Author: She is a contributing author of A Practical Guide to Valuing Employment Discrimination Claims (Hill & Ward).
- Educator: She regularly presents training sessions to fellow legal professionals, ensuring that the standard for mental health advocacy remains high across the industry.
Areas of Specialism
Jessica continues to lead Oakwood Solicitors’ efforts in complex civil litigation and employment disputes, including:
- Stress at Work and Psychiatric Injury claims.
- Claims under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.
- Sexual assault and general assault claims.
- School bullying and educational negligence matters.
What’s Next?
The official online announcement of the 2026 winners will take place on the Acquisition International website this May.
This award follows closely on the heels of Jessica being named Psychiatric Injury Lawyer of the Year by the Yorkshire Prestige Awards, marking a truly landmark period in her career.
Please join all of us at Oakwood Solicitors in congratulating Jessica on this well-deserved achievement. Her passion for justice and mental health continues to inspire our team and transform the lives of our clients.
Read more:
Linkedin: Jessica Rowson
Jessica Rowson started as a Paralegal at Oakwood Solicitors in July 2010, qualifying as a Solicitor in September 2013. Following her qualifying as a Solicitor, Jessica established a niche department …
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