Diverisity is the driver

Alison Atack

As the 55th president of the Law Society of Scotland, I sometimes take a walk along the Atria One corridor in Edinburgh, where my predecessors’ portraits hang, and think about the variety of backgrounds, styles, skills and personalities who have held the role before me.

Past presidents have hailed from high-street, big-firm, urban, rural, criminal, civil, commercial and in-house backgrounds. It is interesting to note that our very first female president took up office in 2005. Since then, we have had a further three women in post.

Our profession benefits enormously from increasing diversity in terms of leadership and membership, and it is essential that the full spectrum of specialisms and individuals who comprise the legal community are represented.

And, of course, diversity of opportunity is a real benefit of joining the legal profession.

The people whose burgeoning careers we are celebrating today, have an exciting range of career avenues at their feet. They have a choice of clients, business types, areas of law and locations. At the risk of descending into platitudes, the world is their oyster.

They are all individuals with different interests, skills and passions, and they all have something unique to offer.

My 54 predecessors and I may differ greatly from one another, but I think we would all agree that the admission ceremony marks an important milestone for all those admitted today

There are certainly many choices ahead for all of you, but for today, take this opportunity to celebrate your achievements with your family and friends. It has been a privilege to be part of your special occasion, and I wish you long, successful and happy careers. n