Society's Neil Stevenson to head Complaints Commission

Neil Stevenson, director of representation at the Law Society of Scotland, has been chosen as the new chief executive of the Scottish Legal Complaints Commission.

Mr Stevenson succeeds Matt Vickers, who left the SLCC in March to join a not-for-profit ombudsman organisation.

He joined the Society in 2003, initially in the Education & Training department, reaching his present position through successive promotions.

The Society's chief executive, Lorna Jack commented: "I am delighted for Neil and congratulate him on his appointment. As someone who understands the legal profession and with his passion, good judgment and positive attitude, I know Neil is going to make an outstanding contribution as SLCC chief executive.

"Whilst I am sorry to lose Neil from the Law Society, we will benefit from his hard work for many years to come. In his time as director of representation, he has helped to transform the range of services and support we offer the profession. He has championed our innovative new Smartcard project, ensured we remain a leader on equality and diversity, and has helped develop our new long term strategy. All of us at the Law Society are grateful for everything he has done.

"I am now looking forward to working with Neil in his new role. The relationship between the Law Society and the SLCC has improved greatly over the last few years. Given the specific roles we play in the regulation of solicitors, this has been important, particularly for the public who depend on both of our organisations to work together to protect their interests."