Commercial hires and new leadership dominate February's list of partnerships, promotions and hires in Scottish legal sector

February's list of partnerships, promotions, appointments and new hires includes a number of senior moves and appointments, particular in the commercial sector.

This month there is a particular focus on promotions and partnerships in the commercial field, as well as a significant change of leadership as Gavin Merchant takes over at Gillespie Macandrew LLP as CEO.

A gallery of the latest appointments and promotions can be found at the bottom of this list.

Anderson Strathern

Independent Scottish law firm, Anderson Strathern, has announced the appointment of a new partner to bolster its existing team of commercial property specialists in what is expected to be a busy year. Dawn MacPherson, who will be based in Edinburgh, joins the firm’s English commercial property team, led by Iain Grieve.

Over the past few years demand has grown for the firm’s specialisms in commercial real estate across a range of clients. Notable recent projects have included acting for: Karl Lagerfeld and its Regent Street flagship London store, recent Crown Estate Scotland real estate investment acquisitions, and innovative energy work such as the UK’s first consumer owned wind and solar projects.

New partner Dawn, who is dual qualified in Scots and English law, brings more than 15 years of experience to Anderson Strathern, having specialised in commercial leasing and complex high value sales and purchases, in sectors such as retail, energy, logistics, hotels, investment and finance.  

She said: “As we start 2026 the consensus from agents and clients is cautious optimism. A more stable operating environment is expected globally, with easing trade concerns and positive economic growth forecasts across most major markets. For investors, landlords, and occupiers, 2026 is being described as a period of ‘selective opportunity,’ rewarding those who prioritise quality, innovation, and long‑term resilience.”

In her new role, Dawn will focus on building and strengthening Anderson Strathern’s existing expertise across various sectors, including retail and energy.

Burges Salmon

Burges Salmon has announced the appointment of two new partners in Scotland, effective from 1 May 2026. This year’s partner appointments include Edinburgh-based Paula McGeady and Patrick Munro from the firm’s Planning & Compulsory Purchase team.
 
Paula is an English and Scottish qualified planning and compulsory purchase lawyer. She has particular expertise in advising on Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) and has promoted numerous development consent orders for onshore and offshore generating stations and connected onshore facilities, pipelines, highways and water infrastructure and pumped storage.
 
Patrick is a Scottish qualified planning lawyer who advises on a wide range of infrastructure and development matters, with a particular specialism in energy and major infrastructure sector projects. Patrick regularly advises clients in relation to planning appeals, public inquiries and judicial review. He also advises scheme promotors and affected parties on compulsory purchase and compensation.
 
Burges Salmon’s Senior Partner, Ross Fairley says: “These appointments are a testament to the strength of our business and the success of our people-first approach. Each of these new partners brings exceptional expertise and leadership, and will play a vital role in supporting our clients and driving the firm forward.”

Gillespie Macandrew LLP

Scottish law firm Gillespie Macandrew LLP has appointed Gavin Merchant as its new CEO, with effect from 1 March 2026. This follows the firm’s appointment of Frank Blin as Chair in July 2025 and marks the start of an exciting era for Gillespie Macandrew as a growth-focussed firm.
 
Gavin succeeds Robert Graham-Campbell, who retires after eight years in the role. Having studied law at the University of Edinburgh and subsequently qualified as a Chartered Accountant, Gavin brings extensive experience from his career in banking and private markets investment in London and overseas.  His ability to drive growth, financial literacy, people skills and track record of building and leading high-performing teams in complex environments stand him in good stead for the CEO role at Gillespie Macandrew, the firm has said.
 
Gavin was appointed following an extensive search process led by Chair Frank Blin, who said: "I am very happy that we have secured Gavin as our new CEO. He brings a combination of relevant financial, business and strategic management experience which will help drive the firm forward and deliver our growth plans in the coming years, building on the strong platform built under Robert’s leadership.”

Gavin Merchant, Gillespie Macandrew’s new CEO, added:
“I am delighted to be joining Gillespie Macandrew at such a pivotal time.  The firm has an excellent reputation, talented colleagues and a strong platform for future success.  I look forward to working closely with our people and clients in the years ahead and to further developing the firm’s capabilities.”

Inksters Solicitors

Inksters Solicitors have strengthened their commercial law practice with Rory Brown joining them as a consultant solicitor in Edinburgh. Rory has many years of experience both in private practice and recently in-house for a large events company.

With expertise in commercial contracts, cybersecurity, data protection and insurance law, Rory has been fortunate to work with a variety of clients and stakeholders across all sectors.

Brian Inkster, Founder and CEO of Inksters, said: “It is great to have Rory join us and enhance the services we can provide to our commercial clients. We have expanded our commercial offering with a number of hires in recent months in Glasgow. It is good to now compliment that with Rory based in Edinburgh.”

Elsewhere, Inksters is now offering immigration and asylum law advice to clients with Paulo de Moura joining them as a consultant solicitor in their Glasgow office.

Paulo de Moura’s practice covers personal immigration matters such as naturalisation, family visas and settlement; asylum work including claims and family reunion; and business immigration through sponsor licences for employers.

Paulo has gained experience in legal practice and policy advocacy across law centres, private firms, and international NGOs. He offers services in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring that clients might have access to legal services in their preferred language.
Paulo holds an MSc in Social Justice, an LLB, and a DPLP, and is completing a part time LLM. His academic study provides the depth and precision to navigate complex law, while his practical experience ensures clarity and accessibility for clients.

Paulo de Moura said: “I am really pleased to join Inksters and bring immigration, asylum, and notary public advice to clients in their preferred language. These matters can be stressful, but my aim is simple: to provide clarity, support, and dignity throughout the process.”

MFMac

MFMac has announced the appointment of Claire Macpherson as a Partner in its expanding Private Client team. Claire joins the firm as one of Scotland’s leading specialists in personal tax, trusts and succession planning, bringing exceptional technical expertise and a strong reputation across the sector.
 
Claire is dual accredited by the Law Society of Scotland as a specialist in both Private Client Tax and Trust Law - an accolade held by only a small number of practitioners in the country. She has extensive experience advising clients on inheritance tax and capital gains tax planning, including work with international families and complex cross‑border arrangements. Her specialist knowledge in domicile and succession matters adds significant depth to MFMac’s offering.
 
In addition to her client work, Claire is a full member (TEP) of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and holds the STEP Advanced Certificate in UK Tax for International Clients. She tutors on the Private Client course within the Diploma in Professional Legal Practice at the University of Glasgow and is recognised in the Chambers High Net Worth Guide as well as being ranked as a “Next Generation Partner” in Legal 500.
 
Chris Harte, CEO of MFMac, said: “Claire’s appointment represents a significant enhancement of our Private Client capability. Her dual accreditation, international expertise and outstanding reputation make her an exceptional addition to the team. MFMac is committed to building one of Scotland’s leading Private Client practices and Claire’s arrival will deepen the support we provide to individuals, families and business owners navigating increasingly complex tax and estate planning landscapes."

Shoosmiths

Shoosmiths in Scotland has further strengthened its senior legal headcount with the appointment of William Reid as Banking Legal Director.  
 
Based in Shoosmiths’ Edinburgh office, Reid will work closely with colleagues in the real estate and corporate teams, advising clients on matters including corporate lending, leveraged / acquisition and real estate finance. 
 
He is currently ranked in the Legal 500 UK Legal Directory as a ‘Leading Associate’ and Chambers and Partners as an ‘Associate to Watch’ for banking and finance in Scotland. He has considerable multi-sectoral experience, advising both funders and borrowers on high profile Scots law matters as well as cross-border and international transactions. William is also noted for his expertise in real estate hotel financing and venture debt/ growth finance arrangements. 
 
Sheelagh Cooley, joint head of the firm’s national real estate finance practice and head of the Edinburgh office, commented: “With our robust growth strategy and the continued development of Shoosmiths’ national banking team, I am very confident that William will be a tremendous asset for our banking colleagues across the UK and our valued clients across Scotland and beyond. We look to further cementing our market presence in key sectors throughout 2026.”

Scullion LAW

Scullion LAW has announced two senior developments within its Wills, Powers of Attorney and Bereavement practice, reflecting continued growth across the firm and a sustained focus on delivering high-quality private client services.

Scott Smith has been promoted from Administrator to Trainee Solicitor, while Ailidh Ballantyne has been appointed Executive Director alongside her existing role leading the Wills, Powers of Attorney and Bereavement team.

Scott began his traineeship in October last year, having joined Scullion LAW in 2022. Since then, he has combined his legal studies with hands-on experience, taking on increasing responsibility across private client matters and building strong relationships with clients. From February 2026, Scott has become a full-time member of the legal team, continuing his development under Ailidh’s supervision and supporting clients with Wills, powers of attorney and estate administration.

Alongside Scott’s progression, Ailidh Ballantyne’s promotion to Executive Director marks a significant step for both the department and the firm. In her expanded role, Ailidh will continue to lead the Wills, Powers of Attorney and Bereavement practice while contributing at board level to the strategic direction and long-term growth of Scullion LAW.

Scott said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining the Wills, Powers of Attorney and Bereavement team as a trainee solicitor, working with Ailidh. Having joined Scullion LAW in 2022 and having started my Diploma the following year, it’s been an exciting journey to reach this point. I’m looking forward to supporting the team, changing lives and making a difference for our clients.”

Ailidh added: “I’m delighted to see Scott take this next step in his career. He has shown real commitment and care in his work, and I have no doubt he will continue to develop into an excellent solicitor. I’m also proud to take on the role of Executive Director, continuing to lead a team that delivers such important work for our clients, while helping shape the future of the firm.”