Coral Riddell appointed new head of Professional Practice at Law Society of Scotland

The Law Society of Scotland have appointed a new head of professional practice, Coral Riddell, currently of law firm Pinset Masons. Ms Riddell will succeed Bruce Ritchie when he retires at the end of December 2012.

Law Society of Scotland Press Release :

Society appoints new head of professional practice

The Law Society of Scotland has appointed Scottish solicitor Coral Riddell to succeed Bruce Ritchie as Head of Professional Practice when he retires at the end of December. She will commence at the Society on 10 September.

Coral will bring with her over a decade of legal and business experience. She is currently a senior dispute solicitor at Pinsent Masons, as well as Legal Director for membership body BASI (British Association of Snowsport Instructors) which has provided her with real experience of the issues and opportunities that face membership organisations.

Coral's new role will include managing the five-strong professional practice team who offer a confidential support service on practice rules and guidelines for Scottish solicitors. The team handles 20,000 enquiries a year, offering clarification on practice rules and advice on ethical issues and anti-money laundering.

Commenting on Coral's appointment, Neil Stevenson, Director of Representation and Support at the Society said: "I am excited that Coral will be joining as a key member of the team at the Society. Coral's personal experience of being a practising solicitor as well as working for a membership body leaves her well placed to understand what challenges Scottish solicitors face and the support they require. The appointment comes as Bruce Ritchie, the current Head of Professional Practice prepares to retire at the end of the year after almost 23 dedicated years with the Society."

Speaking about her new role, Coral said: "The Society is undergoing a process of reinvigoration and I am extremely enthusiastic about joining during such an exciting chapter. The professional practice team are skilled individuals who provide an important service to members. I look forward to working with them and to developing the service together.

"I am eager to engage with the full spectrum of the Society's membership and keen to hear from them what the Society's professional practice team can do to support them. While I leave many good friends and colleagues at Pinsent Masons, I look forward to the change of direction and the challenges that no doubt await in my new role."

Kenny Valentine, Partner, Pinsent Masons added: "Coral has been an exceptionally dedicated, collegiate and valued colleague. Whilst her contribution will be missed by the firm we recognise that the role of Head of Professional Practice at the Society is one which aligns with many of Coral's talents. We have no doubt that she will make the role her own and we wish her well."