Johnston Clark to step down as Blackadders managing partner

Blackadders has announced that its managing partner, Johnston Clark, will stand down at the end of July. He will be succeeded by Emma Gray and Ryan McKay as joint managing partners.

Mr Clark said: “Much has been achieved since I was first appointed in 1999, but two of the many tasks of a managing partner are to leave office with the firm in better shape than when they started and to secure their own succession. We have come through the Covid period, the second lengthy crisis period of my tenure stronger than ever and now is the right time for the next generation to take charge, with my full support."

Ms Gray, head of commercial property, said: “It is an immense privilege to be elected as joint managing partner of Blackadders. I am looking forward to working with Ryan and our talented colleagues across the business to implement the firm’s strategic plan. I do so with huge appreciation for Johnston’s drive and vision which has shaped the success of the firm to date.”

Mr McKay, head of dispute resolution, added: “Being elected joint managing partner at Blackadders is a great honour and I look forward to playing my part in executing the next stage of the firm’s strategic plan. We are a firm with a long record of success, stability and resilience; just as Johnston did, Emma and I will do all that we can to ensure we continue to build upon that”.