By Ian McConnell

SCOTTISH law firm Morton Fraser has named Jenny Dickson as its new chairman.

Ms Dickson, a partner in the law firm's litigation team, succeeds Maggie Moodie, who retired in April.

The new chairman has also succeeded Ms Moodie in leading the firm’s public sector practice.

Morton Fraser said: "Jenny is an advocate for social inclusion within the sector, and so one of Jenny’s priorities in her new role is to set out and implement a vision for a more inclusive legal industry. Jenny is particularly passionate about breaking down barriers to social mobility and legal education."

Chris Harte, chief executive of Morton Fraser, said: “Jenny’s passion and experience makes her an excellent choice for chairman. I am looking forward to working with her to continue to evolve Morton Fraser as a modern, flexible and inclusive business and place of work which, in turn, means we can continue to deliver the best possible service to our clients. I’d also like to thank Maggie for her outstanding stewardship over the past four years.”

Ms Dickson said: “I am proud and excited to have been appointed chairman of Morton Fraser. Driving the legal industry forward for the better starts from within, and as chairman I will be advocating for more inclusive practices where possible [to] level the playing field with our own recruitment to identify outperformers from diverse backgrounds, while exploring other diversity access schemes that can help make a difference to the sector across Scotland.”