Non-lawyer chair to join Gillespie Macandrew

Legal firm Gillespie Macandrew is changing its management lineup by appointing a non-lawyer as its new non-executive chair.

Fiona Morton, a surveyor by profession who has previously held senior roles including managing director of Millar & Bryce Ltd and managing partner and chair of Ryden LLP, will join the firm in early April. She takes over from Murray Shaw, who is retiring.

Ms Morton has made regular appearances in the Scottish Business Insider top 100 business leaders, including Businesswoman of the Year. She also currently serves as chair of the Scottish Property Awards judging panel.

Partner and board member Robert Scott-Dempster commented: “With Murray retiring, the firm decided to take the opportunity to look more widely for its next chair, seeking broad commercial experience from beyond legal services and allowing our partners to concentrate on what they do best.

“We were delighted with the quality of candidates who engaged in our recruitment process and following a rigorous process the panel was unanimous in selecting Fiona. She brings significant experience of working in very senior roles in professional services partnerships and other commercial structures as well as a substantial knowledge of the Scottish business markets and a strong client focus. We look forward to her experienced counsel and support.”