Mediation Services Are Not About Compromise. They’re About Control.
CEDR’s commercial mediation services offer a structured process that gives you more than just compromise; they give you control. Unlike court or arbitration, our mediation services keep the decision-making in your hands, with no rulings imposed and no pressure to settle.
Our expert commercial mediators are completely neutral. Their role is to help both sides move forward, faster, confidentially, and often more cost-effectively than litigation.
Email: adr@cedr.com
Telephone: 020 7536 6060
Explore Our Mediator Panels and Schemes
Our accredited mediators work across a wide range of panels and schemes, giving you fast access to specialists with the right sector knowledge, legal expertise, and experience. From commercial disputes to regulated schemes, each panel is built on trust, independence, and proven results.
- UK Panel
- International Panel
- Trusts, Wills & Probate Panel
- Workplace Mediation Panel
- NHS Mediation Scheme
- P2B Panel
- Employment & Workplace
- Additional Expertise
- Banking, Finance & Insurances
- Commercial & Corporate
- Construction, Property & Planning
- Culture, Lifestyle & Sport
- Equality & Social Justice
- Healthcare & Personal Matters
- Industry, Energy & Environment
- International Trade & Competition
- Private Client
- Public Sector & Governance
- Technology, Media & IP
- Austria
- Bulgaria
- Crotia
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Italy
- Lithuania
- Netherlands
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovenia
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- UAE
- UK
- USA
- Ireland
- Liechtenstein
- Spain
- Canada
- Japan
- Singapore
- Ecuador
- Qatar
- Aafrikaans
- Arabic
- Armenian
- Bosnian (basic)
- Bulgarian
- Croatian
- Croatian (basic)
- Czech
- Dutch
- English
- Finnish
- French
- French (basic)
- French (intermediate)
- German
- German (basic)
- German (intermediate)
- Greek
- Greek (basic)
- Hungarian
- Italian
- Italian (basic)
- Lithuanian
- Mandarin
- Norwegian
- Polish
- Portuguese
- Portuguese (basic)
- Romanian
- Russian (basic)
- Serbian (basic)
- Slovak
- Slovenian
- Spanish
- Swedish
- Spanish (basic)
- Swedish (basic)
- Welsh (basic)
- Japanese
- Teochew Chinese
- Hindi
Felicity Steadman
Mediator
Biography
Felicity Steadman is one of the UK's most experienced workplace and employment mediators, with more than 35 years' experience resolving disputes across employment, workplace, discrimination and commercial matters. Head of the CEDR Mediator Training Faculty and a Fellow of the Civil Mediation Council, she has mediated hundreds of disputes in the UK and internationally.
Drawing on a background in industrial relations, employment law and conflict management, Felicity is recognised for her expertise in workplace conflict, Equality Act disputes, executive and leadership conflicts, organisational change and complex employment matters. Clients appreciate her warm, engaging and highly effective approach to resolving challenging disputes.
Expertise
- Employment & Workplace
- Commercial & Corporate
- Construction, Property & Planning
- Public Sector & Governance
- Culture, Lifestyle & Sport
- Equality & Social Justice
Amrik Kandola
Commercial Mediator
Biography
Amrik Kandola is an award-winning commercial mediator with more than 30 years' experience in dispute resolution and a mediation settlement rate of approximately 90%. A former senior partner at a global law firm and recognised by Legal 500 as a Leading Mediator, he specialises in complex commercial, construction, engineering, infrastructure, technology, professional negligence and business disputes.
Amrik has mediated disputes ranging from tens of thousands of pounds to hundreds of millions, often involving multiple parties, international dimensions and significant strategic business considerations. He was named Civil & Commercial Mediator of the Year at the National Mediation Awards and is a member of CEDR Chambers and the CEDR Faculty.
Expertise
- Private Client
- Commercial & Corporate
- Construction, Property & Planning
- Banking, Finance & Insurances
- Public Sector & Governance
- Culture, Lifestyle & Sport
- Industry, Energy & Environment
- International Trade & Competition
- Healthcare & Personal Matters
- Technology, Media & IP
Gillian Caroe
Mediator
Biography
Gillian Caroe is a highly experienced commercial, workplace and trusts mediator who has successfully mediated hundreds of disputes across the public, private and charitable sectors. A CEDR accredited mediator since 2005 and member of CEDR's Lead Mediator Panel and Training Faculty, she is regularly appointed in employment, property, healthcare, commercial contract, charity, probate and public sector disputes.
Before becoming a full time mediator, Gillian held senior international business roles with a global organisation, working across multiple countries and business functions. She combines strong commercial understanding with a highly people focused approach, helping parties navigate complex disputes while preserving important relationships wherever possible.
Expertise
- Employment & Workplace
- Private Client
- Commercial & Corporate
- Construction, Property & Planning
- Banking, Finance & Insurances
- Public Sector & Governance
- Culture, Lifestyle & Sport
- Equality & Social Justice
- Industry, Energy & Environment
- Healthcare & Personal Matters
- Technology, Media & IP
Alan Jacobs
Mediator
Biography
Alan Jacobs is one of the UK's most experienced clinical negligence and personal injury mediators, having completed more than 460 mediations, including over 380 clinical negligence cases. A member of the CEDR Chambers senior mediator panel and the Court of Appeal Mediation Panel, Alan also mediates a wide range of commercial disputes and has more than 40 years' experience in dispute resolution.
Having acted for both claimants and defendants throughout his legal career, including as a partner at Mills & Reeve and previously with DLA Piper, Alan brings a balanced perspective to complex and high-value disputes. He is recognised for his expertise in clinical negligence, healthcare, catastrophic injury and personal injury claims, and for his ability to manage emotionally sensitive disputes with empathy, pragmatism and commercial awareness.
Expertise
- Commercial & Corporate
- Construction, Property & Planning
- Banking, Finance & Insurances
- Culture, Lifestyle & Sport
- Equality & Social Justice
- Industry, Energy & Environment
- International Trade & Competition
- Healthcare & Personal Matters
- Technology, Media & IP
Eve Pienaar
Mediator
Biography
Eve Pienaar is a leading commercial mediator specialising in construction, property, professional negligence, shareholder, insolvency, trusts and probate disputes. Ranked by both Chambers & Partners and Legal 500, she has mediated more than 350 commercial disputes and is regularly appointed in complex, high value and multi party cases across the UK and internationally.
A former solicitor with Clifford Chance and senior in house counsel for global organisations including Warner Bros., RICS and RIBA, Eve combines strong legal analysis with commercial insight. Clients value her thorough preparation, strategic thinking and ability to help parties resolve challenging disputes efficiently and pragmatically.
Expertise
- Employment & Workplace
- Private Client
- Commercial & Corporate
- Construction, Property & Planning
- Banking, Finance & Insurances
- Public Sector & Governance
- Culture, Lifestyle & Sport
- Equality & Social Justice
- Industry, Energy & Environment
- Healthcare & Personal Matters
- Technology, Media & IP
Tracey Fox
Non-Executive Director and Mediator
Biography
Tracey Fox is a workplace, employment, healthcare and commercial mediator with more than 20 years of experience resolving complex, sensitive and emotionally charged disputes. A CEDR Panel Mediator, Lead Faculty member and conflict management specialist, she works across workplace, commercial, NHS, healthcare, education, financial services and charity sectors.
Drawing on a unique background in clinical psychology, psychodynamic psychotherapy, organisational behaviour and senior corporate leadership, Tracey helps individuals, teams and organisations navigate conflict constructively. She is particularly recognised for her expertise in workplace disputes, discrimination and harassment claims, healthcare complaints, leadership conflicts and complex relationship breakdowns.
Expertise
- Employment & Workplace
- Commercial & Corporate
- Construction, Property & Planning
- Banking, Finance & Insurances
- Public Sector & Governance
- Culture, Lifestyle & Sport
- Equality & Social Justice
- Industry, Energy & Environment
- Healthcare & Personal Matters
- Technology, Media & IP
Eileen Carroll KC (Hon)
Principal Mediator & Co-Founder
Biography
Eileen Carroll KC (Hon) is one of the UK's most respected and influential commercial mediators, recognised internationally for her role in establishing mediation as a mainstream dispute resolution process. Co-founder of CEDR and awarded Honorary Queen's Counsel for her contribution to civil justice, she has spent more than 25 years mediating some of the world's most complex and high value disputes.
Eileen is regularly appointed in major commercial, financial services, technology, infrastructure, intellectual property, shareholder and public sector disputes, including multi party and multi billion pound matters. Clients consistently praise her strategic insight, exceptional preparation and ability to resolve disputes that others regard as intractable.
Expertise
- Employment & Workplace
- Commercial & Corporate
- Construction, Property & Planning
- Banking, Finance & Insurances
- Public Sector & Governance
- Culture, Lifestyle & Sport
- Industry, Energy & Environment
- International Trade & Competition
- Healthcare & Personal Matters
- Technology, Media & IP
Fiona Colquhoun
Principal Consultant & Mediator
Biography
Fiona Colquhoun is a highly regarded commercial and workplace mediator specialising in employment, professional negligence, partnership, shareholder and commercial disputes. Ranked by Chambers & Partners and Legal 500, she has extensive experience helping businesses, professionals and individuals resolve complex disputes across a wide range of sectors.
A former litigation partner and experienced dispute resolution lawyer, Fiona combines strong legal expertise with a practical and commercially focused approach. Clients value her ability to quickly understand complex issues, build rapport with parties and guide difficult negotiations towards constructive outcomes.
Expertise
- Employment & Workplace
- Private Client
- Commercial & Corporate
- Construction, Property & Planning
- Banking, Finance & Insurances
- Public Sector & Governance
- Culture, Lifestyle & Sport
- Equality & Social Justice
- Industry, Energy & Environment
- Healthcare & Personal Matters
- Technology, Media & IP
Find a Mediation Scheme
CEDR operates a wide range of mediation and dispute resolution schemes for courts, regulators, industry bodies and major organisations. If you are a customer, business, member, or party needing to submit a case under one of these schemes, you can access the correct process directly from our scheme pages.
Need a mediation solution tailored to your specific dispute?
Not every conflict fits neatly into a standard scheme. Bespoke mediation gives you a completely customised approach - designed around your dispute's unique circumstances, timing, and commercial needs.
What is Commercial Mediation?
Mediation is one of the most effective ways to resolve disputes while retaining control and confidentiality. CEDR’s commercial mediation services are designed to help individuals and organisations resolve conflicts quickly and constructively, guided by an expert commercial mediator.
Common Myths vs. The Reality
- Unlike court or arbitration, you stay in control. Every conversation remains confidential, and without prejudice (meaning nothing discussed is able to be used against you in court) if no agreement is reached.
- It’s not legally binding unless you choose to make it so. Any binding settlement is yours to sign, only if and when you decide.
- It’s not therapy. It’s future-focused problem-solving, structured to move disputes forward.
- It’s not a compromise imposed by someone else. You decide the outcome, or choose to walk away.
CEDR’s approach to commercial mediation puts agency firmly in your hands, providing a structured yet flexible process that works across industries and dispute types.
For a deeper look at how mediation works, what to expect, and how to prepare effectively, see our comprehensive Knowledge Base overview: What is mediation?
Mediation Works - Even for Complex or High-Stakes Commercial Disputes
The power of mediation isn’t just in reaching agreement, it’s in helping people feel heard, regain control, and resolve even the most difficult disputes.
These real examples show how our commercial mediation services have helped individuals and organisations avoid litigation, reputational damage, and leadership breakdown.
Executive Conflict in a Leadership Team
Situation:
Breakdown between a Chief Executive and Deputy Chief Executive threatened to destabilise the entire leadership team.
Approach:
Mediation created space for both parties to express their views safely and explore forward options.
Outcome:
A negotiated exit package and agreed reference helped both parties move on without legal proceedings.
Commercial Dispute with Allegations of Fraud
Situation:
Two large organisations clashed over a cleaning contract, with one alleging financial misrepresentation.
Approach:
CEOs were brought together for structured dialogue, supported by private sessions to clarify facts and priorities.
Outcome:
The dispute was resolved with an apology and compensation, avoiding reputational damage and court action.
High-Stakes Employment Case Involving PTSD
Situation:
An employee with PTSD faced a high-value employment dispute following traumatic workplace events.
Approach:
Mediation gave the individual a confidential, respectful space to be heard and propose acceptable terms.
Outcome:
The parties agreed a settlement, including a new job reference, without the stress of litigation.
The Gold Standard in Mediation, Trusted Across Sectors and Borders
CEDR is one of the UK’s longest-established providers of commercial mediation services, with over 35 years’ experience resolving disputes efficiently, confidentially, and on your terms. Every year, our mediation services support thousands of organisations, from SMEs to FTSE companies and public bodies.
Our internationally recognised approach gives businesses and legal teams the confidence to tackle even the most complex cases, from partnership breakdowns to multi-billion-pound conflicts, while keeping control firmly in your hands.
Whether you need a commercial mediator with sector-specific expertise or a structured commercial mediation process that guarantees neutrality and confidentiality, CEDR provides comprehensive support at every stage.
Trusted by global brands and industry regulators
Not Just Any Mediator. The Right Commercial Mediator for Your Case.
Every dispute is unique, and so is the commercial mediator best placed to resolve it. That’s why we don’t leave your match to chance, lists or algorithms.
At CEDR, your dedicated Client Relationship Associate (CRA) will take the time to understand the context of your dispute and guide you to the most suitable mediator, based on sector knowledge, case complexity, communication style and, where helpful, personal preferences like gender or language.
From first enquiry to follow-up, your CRA manages the entire process with care and precision.
What Your Client Relationship Associate Will Do:
Understand
the dynamics of your dispute and what’s at stake, so our commercial mediation services are tailored to your situation.
Recommend
the most suitable commercial mediator, considering sector expertise, case complexity, and interpersonal fit.
Manage
paperwork, logistics and pre-session communication, ensuring your mediation services run smoothly from the outset.
Oversee
the process end-to-end, giving you confidence that every stage of your commercial mediation is fully supported.
What to Expect from Our Commercial Mediation Process
You’ll be supported throughout by a neutral mediator and a dedicated Client Relationship Associate (CRA).
Here’s how it works:
Agreement to Mediate
Before the session, both parties sign a Mediation Agreement to ensure confidentiality and commitment to the process.
Pre-Mediation Preparation
Your mediator and CRA will help clarify the issues, agree logistics, and prepare materials to ensure a productive session.
Private Sessions
Each party speaks confidentially with the mediator to explore concerns, priorities, and potential options, in a safe and neutral space.
Joint Sessions
Where appropriate, the mediator facilitates dialogue between parties to share perspectives and identify areas of agreement.
Agreement or Next Steps
If a settlement is reached, the mediator helps draft a written agreement. Even if not, most parties move significantly closer to resolution.
You’re never on your own. Your CRA manages everything from booking and preparation through to post-mediation follow-up, ensuring a smooth and supported experience throughout.
A High Success Rate and Value, Even Without Agreement
CEDR’s mediation services consistently help parties move forward, whether by settling on the day or by unlocking progress that leads to resolution shortly after.
Around 70 - 80% of cases settle during the session. When they don’t, most still walk away with a clearer understanding, narrowed issues, and stronger control of the next steps.
We don’t just track outcomes, we track satisfaction. Even in unresolved cases, clients rate our commercial mediation process highly because they feel heard, supported, and in control.
Why organisations trust our results:
of CEDR mediations result in same-day settlement
of cases resolved annually, from individual workplace issues to high-value commercial mediation
of professional disputes are resolved in under 10 hours, through CEDR mediation
Still Have Questions About Commercial Mediation?
Is mediation legally binding?
Only if both parties choose to sign a written agreement at the end of the session. Mediation gives you full control over the outcome.
What if we can’t agree during the session?
That’s okay. Many disputes settle shortly after. Mediation helps narrow the issues and set a constructive path forward.
Is everything we say confidential?
Yes. Mediation is completely confidential. All parties sign a Mediation Agreement protecting privacy. Nothing discussed can be used in legal proceedings.
How do I know which mediator is right for us?
You don’t need to decide alone. Our Client Relationship Associates will match you with the right mediator based on style, experience, and your sector.
Can I request a specific mediator?
Yes. You can choose a CEDR-accredited mediator or ask us to recommend a shortlist. If needed, we’ll nominate someone suitable based on your case.
Do you offer mediation online or in person?
Both. CEDR supports online, in-person and hybrid mediation. Over 60% of sessions are now conducted remotely via secure video.
How long does a typical mediation take?
Most mediations last between 5–10 hours, including preparation. Timings can vary depending on case complexity.
What does mediation cost?
Costs are typically split between parties. CEDR offers fixed-fee packages based on dispute complexity, covering up to 7 hours of mediation. Additional prep, venue hire, or cancellations may incur extra fees.
How do I make a complaint about a commercial mediation?
We are committed to providing a professional, fair and high-quality mediation service. If you are dissatisfied with any aspect of the service provided by one of our commercial mediators or our case management team, you can make a formal complaint under our Commercial Mediation Complaints Procedure.
Complaints should normally be submitted within three months of the mediation ending and should include your contact details, case reference (if applicable), details of your complaint, and the outcome you are seeking.
We aim to acknowledge complaints within 2 working days and provide a substantive response within 15 working days. If you remain dissatisfied after our initial response, you may request a review under Stage 2 of our complaints process.
Read our full Commercial Mediation Complaints Procedure or contact us at complaints@cedr.com for further information.
Not Sure Commercial Mediation Is Right for You?
Explore other dispute resolution options including adjudication, arbitration and more.