Chief Executive of Law Society to step down next year

Law Society of Scotland Chief Executive, Diane McGiffen, is to step down from her role in 2025 after just more than three years in post.

The professional body for Scottish solicitors has announced that Ms McGiffen will be leaving the role in April 2025. She joined the Law Society as chief executive in January 2022, leading its work to support a “modern, thriving solicitor profession and act in the public interest”.

She said: “The Law Society of Scotland is committed to upholding the rule of law, promoting access to justice, and acting for solicitors and the public. It has been an enormous privilege and a real pleasure to work alongside my colleagues to support Scotland’s solicitor profession to thrive and uphold those timeless values

“I have been very proud to spend time with our many members across Scotland, to work with our committed Council members, and to see first-hand the care, consideration and expertise with which the Society’s many volunteers comment and advise on legislation and areas of legal practice.

“There are many exciting opportunities ahead for the Society and it is the right time for me to pass the baton to a successor next year.”

Susan Murray, President of the Law Society, said: “Diane has done great work for the Law Society in leading our strategic development and in championing the profession and the role it plays within our society.

“It has been a real pleasure working closely with Diane. She has been a wonderful support and wise counsel to me and my fellow Council members, as well as the staff team at the Society. We wish her all the very best in the future.”