Member Article

Manchester law firm Shoosmiths elects next CEO

David Jackson to take the reins at Shoosmiths

LEADING UK law firm Shoosmiths which has an office in Manchester’s XYZ Building, has announced Birmingham partner David Jackson is to become its CEO from 1 May 2022.

Simon Boss, who remains CEO at Shoosmiths alongside chairperson Peter Duff, did not stand for re-election.

David currently leads Shoosmiths’ award-winning national Commercial Group and has been at the forefront of the development and launch of major LegalTech solutions (such as matters+ and Cia®) and other innovative offerings including its complementary non-legal service arm, Shoosmiths8 Connected Services. He has been a Shoosmiths partner for 15 years, having joined the firm in 2006 from Compass Group Plc, where he was legal counsel. Prior to that, David was at DLA Piper.

David said of his appointment: “I am honoured and excited to be taking on the role of CEO of Shoosmiths. And it is no small challenge to follow in Simon’s footsteps, given the exceptional job he has done over the last three years in steering us through the pandemic and delivering impressive growth across all our business areas. Those turbulent times have brought out the very best in our management team, our partners and our people, and I feel truly privileged to have the opportunity to work alongside Peter in leading them through the next chapter in Shoosmiths’ story.

“The rate of change in the legal profession has never been greater, and that trend is only going to continue, bringing with it many opportunities. So, I am really looking forward to the journey ahead and all along the way we will put our amazing clients and our exceptionally talented people at the heart of everything we do.”

Simon Boss commented: “I have absolute confidence that David, with his spirit, energy and expertise, will excel in the role of CEO from May next year and build upon the successes we continue to enjoy. Although I have decided to step back from the CEO role, I intend to continue my focus on social mobility and other aspects of the ESG agenda.

“What we have achieved collectively as a firm so far is nothing short of remarkable, and we continue to evolve every day. I am especially proud of what has been achieved during my tenure – the growth, development and recognition of the firm, the operational continuity through a challenging period, the establishment of firmwide ESG goals, such as our ambition to be Carbon Net Zero by 2025, our focus on social mobility and the launch of the Shoosmiths Foundation.

“I would like to thank the firm and everyone I have worked with closely with over the last three years. I remain as active as ever until May comes.”

Peter Duff said: “I congratulate David and look forward to working with him leading Shoosmiths into its next chapter.

“The firm is at an exciting point in its journey and I would like to personally thank Simon for his contribution. In his role as CEO he has played a huge part in the strategic decision making that has seen Shoosmiths enjoy success after success, and wish him the very best.

“David is another topflight lawyer, who has consistently delivered for the firm and has brought new ideas and innovations to life. I have no doubt he will make a brilliant CEO for Shoosmiths and am excited to work alongside him as part of the senior leadership team from May next year.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Edward Hawkins .