Shoosmiths names Janette Speed to head Scottish offices

UK law firm Shoosmiths has announced three managerial appointments in its Scottish offices.

Janette Speed, real estate partner and previously head of Edinburgh, has been named head of Scotland for Shoosmiths. She will assume overarching responsibility to spearhead further growth for the business north of the border, with a remit that includes adding to the firm’s blue-chip client base and attracting additional quality legal talent to its expanding Scottish operation.

Alison Gilson, head of corporate for Shoosmiths in Scotland is now also head of the Edinburgh office, while real estate partner Barry McKeown has been confirmed as the head of the Glasgow office, which will shortly relocate to new 5,000 square metre premises within The Garment Factory in Glasgow’s business and innovation district.

Simon Boss, CEO of Shoosmiths, commented:  “Shoosmiths recognises Scotland as an exceptional place for legal talent and also a place many of our clients call home, or have a strong presence.

“Our strategy is to be the top UK law firm famous for client experience. Continuing to drive the success Shoosmiths has enjoyed in Scotland is a key component in delivering on this strategy.

“With our continued investment in Scotland in the form of a new Glasgow office, alongside leadership from Janette, Barry and Alison, I am in no doubt the firm will continue to grow and develop successfully.”