Profile: Keith Hamilton

Tell us a little about your career so far?

I followed an unusual route to qualification in 2014. I spent the previous 20 years or so in the car industry, the last eight years of which as head of business with various franchises such as Porsche, Ferrari, Maserati and Bentley. After qualifying I spent three years in commercial litigation and then had an opportunity to gain experience in-house as a turnaround and risk manager with Heineken, where I have been for the last three years or so.

What led you to become involved with the Society?

Prior to starting my traineeship I was fortunate to spend three years as a lay member of the Edinburgh children's panel, which I found to be a challenging but very worthwhile voluntary experience. After qualifying I knew that I wanted to develop this voluntary experience to try and expand my skillset and give something back to the Society which regulates our profession, and felt that my experience as a solicitor and my prior experience in business may be beneficial at a committee level.

Has anything surprised you about the committee work or the Society more widely?

Before applying to join one I don't think I fully appreciated the full range of committees that serve the interests of the profession and public, from regulatory committees to policy committees and those which serve particular areas of practice or provide accreditation to, for example, paralegals or senior solicitor advocates. I believe that whatever your area of practice or interest there would be a committee where you could make a positive contribution. 

What have you found most interesting about the committee’s work?

The functions delegated to the Practising Certificate Committee are governed by the Regulatory Committee. Each of the applications and supporting documentation we receive within the remit set are interesting, and sometimes complex, and no two are ever the same. 

Would you recommend being on a committee, and why?

Yes, I would definitely recommend joining a committee: it's a great networking opportunity and an excellent way to expand your skillset while actively contributing to the Society which regulates our profession.

Looking ahead, what do you think are the key issues for the profession?

It is very important that we have as diverse and inclusive a profession as possible by continuing to actively encourage people from all backgrounds to study law and consider law as a career. Organisations such as the Scottish Ethnic Minorities Lawyers' Association are doing some great work to progress this aim, as is the Society itself through the excellent Lawscot Foundation, for example.

What is your top tip for new lawyers?

Often said – but keep things simple, use plain English and get to the point. Take some time to try and understand your client and their needs, and this will help put into context why they are asking for your advice. Join a committee; it will help with networking and will boost your CV.

What keeps you busy outside of work?

I am a member of the West Links golf course in North Berwick so I like to try and get down there as often as possible, and also try and go to the gym once or twice a week.