Ashurst's Glasgow support base to play global role

International law firm Ashurst is to use its Glasgow support centre as part of a new integrated global team, as it continues to develop its legal services delivery processes.

Partner Mike Polson, who leads the Glasgow operation, and head of strategic projects Mark Higgs have been appointed directors of the new global team, branded "Ashurst Advance", which will focus on the key areas of resources, process and technology, all with a view to supporting clients being pressured to deliver operational efficiency.

The expanding Glasgow team of legal analysts, led by Iain Brown, will provide a global resource of excellence for recurring work. On the process side, a team of specialist legal project managers, led from Sydney by Rachael Moore, is tasked with managing client matters in the most effective way possible, allocating work to people across the firm's 27 offices in 16 countries. The firm will also look strategically at how to build material process efficiency into its approach.

Meanwhile the global legal technologist team, led by Tae Royle from Brisbane and which combines legal background and software expertise, will build automation into Ashurst's legal services.

Ashurst Advance will also be used to build a research and development capability, positioning Ashurst at the forefront of change in the industry and underpinning continuing innovation.

Mr Polson commented: "What is really different about Ashurst Advance is the integrated approach to innovation in service delivery, application of new technologies and investment in R&D. This combination will bring significant advantage to clients by ensuring that work of the highest quality is delivered by the right people, supported by cutting edge technologies and robust process. We believe that we are the first firm to create such a clear, global platform to address the three areas that are current strategic imperatives for clients. Ashurst Advance has significant scope for future development and we expect it to play a key role in the future success of our business."