Death of Pinsent Masons' Kirk Murdoch announced

Kirk Murdoch, chairman of Pinsent Masons in Scotland and Northern Ireland, has passed away "following a brave battle with illness", the firm announced today.

Mr Murdoch joined legacy firm McGrigor Donald in 1982, becoming partner before progressing to managing partner and later its Senior Partner.

He was one of the primary architects of the merger between Pinsent Masons and McGrigors in 2012, and subsequently sat on the firm's board until stepping back late last year.

In a statement Pinsent Masons said: "During an illustrious career with the firm Kirk played a critical role in the development of the business, its client relationships and its people – all of which he was deeply passionate about.

"Outside of work Kirk was a proud Ayshireman and committed sportsman. He captained Ayr Rugby Club in his youth and was an accomplished golfer, becoming a member of Troon Prestwick and latterly Archerfield. He remained committed to the region throughout his life and sat on the Board of Ayr Renaissance, an organisation championing the regeneration of Ayr town centre. He was also on the Board of the Beatson, a leading cancer care centre based in Glasgow.

"He was above all a devoted family man, loving partner, and a valued friend to so many – or a true 'man o' pairts' as they say in Ayrshire."

Richard Foley, senior partner of Pinsent Masons, added: "For very many years, Kirk has been a huge influence in our firm. He was a natural leader and his ambition for the firm – and indeed for the wider Scottish legal profession – marked him out as one of the most distinguished lawyers of his generation.

"He had an incredibly positive influence in shaping the careers of so many and we will miss him dreadfully. He was unfailingly courteous and thoughtful and was blessed with a great sense of humour. So many of us turned to him for wise counsel. We have lost a great friend and our thoughts and prayers are with his family."

Eilidh Wiseman, President of the Law Society of Scotland, who began her career at McGrigor Donald, said the Society was "extremely saddened" to hear about Kirk Murdoch's death. She commented: "Kirk was a leading figure in the Scottish legal profession for many years and highly regarded by his peers. He played a significant role in McGrigors becoming one of Scotland's most successful law firms and was instrumental in the successful merger with Pinsent Masons. He was enormously committed to his firm, his clients and to his profession during a career lasting more than 35 years.

"I had the privilege of working with Kirk at McGrigors. As senior partner he was a strong advocate for equality within the firm and I learned a great deal from his style of inclusive leadership.

"He will be much missed by his colleagues and the many friends he made within the profession. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this time."