Profile

What is your profession?

I am a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, a freelance human resources professional and now run my own company, PeopleXtra, after a number of years working for multinational companies.

Why did you decide to stand for Council?

In my career, I have always enjoyed being involved in employment law matters. Standing for Council as a lay member has given me an opportunity to learn more about the legal profession and get involved in something I believe is worthwhile.

Have your perceptions of the Society changed since you joined Council?

I have realised how widespread the activities of the Society are, particularly as I am also a member of the Practising Certificate Subcommittee. I now understand how the Society serves both the interests of the public and its members.

What have been the highlights for you personally?

Joining Council just prior to decisions being made about the relocation to Atria One was particularly interesting and it has been satisfying to witness the successful move of the staff to the new premises.

What are the main issues that you think the Council has to address at the moment?

I believe the emergence of new business models and the ability to set up alternative business structures in the future, will provide both opportunities and challenges for the legal profession. It is the role of Council to help the profession and public adapt to and take advantages of the changes.

What has been the most surprising aspect of your work as a Council member?

I have been pleasantly surprised by how friendly and informal Council meetings are, despite the fact that every month we have a huge amount of business to cover.

What are you most looking forward to as part of the Society’s new strategy?

In striving to be a world-class professional body, the Society needs to balance the ambitions and interests of different parts of the membership and I think it is these debates that will prove the most interesting.

If you could change only one thing for members, what would it be?

I would encourage the Society to interact more with its members so that they feel it fully represents them across all aspects of their work.

What keeps you busy outside of work?

I enjoy eating out in different restaurants with my friends, so I balance this by keeping active – running, cycling and being a volunteer ranger for Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.