Kells congratulates senior associate Ashleigh Barry on earning the prestigious award of Outstanding Young Employee at this year's Illawarra Business Chamber (IBC) Awards held at WIN Entertainment Centre on 18 October.

Ashleigh has progressed rapidly in her legal career since the commencement of her employment at Kells in October 2012. She displays a solid work ethic, technical skill and has a strong ability to connect with her clients. She is committed to the future of Kells and is Chairman of the Social Committee and has recently led a review of the firm's cadetship and mentor programs encouraging flexibility in the workforce for students also studying at university.

The IBC awards now in its 25th year celebrates business excellence by recognising and rewarding outstanding businesses and business people whose passion, determination, innovation and success inspire other businesses and business individuals.

As Ashleigh is named a winner in the regional business awards, she has now progressed as a finalist to the 2019 State Business Awards being held in Sydney on Friday 22 November.

Kells' Managing Partner Paul Magagnino said this well-deserved award attests not only Ashleigh's professional achievements over the past 12 months, but also her extra-curricular contributions to Kells and the Illawarra community.

"We are very proud of Ashleigh's award win. Amongst so many talented business people achieving spectacular outcomes here in the Illawarra, we are thoroughly thrilled for Ashleigh to be recognised with this award. Our people are the heart of our business, and this award is another testament to the loyalty and fabulous result that our staff bring to our business each day. I congratulate Ashleigh on her dedication and thank her for her contribution to Kells."