Maclays eyes London push with City-based chairman

Scotland's largest firm Maclay Murray & Spens has made a bold statement of intent with the appointment of London-based partner Philip Skerrett as its new chairman.

Skerrett's appointment signals Maclays' intention to focus its energies primarily on growing its London office.

"It was felt that it would be helpful to have someone from the London end of the business as chairman," said Skerrett. "The intention is to grow the business via the London office."

Skerrett, who beat Edinburgh-based banking partner Robert Laing in an election two weeks ago, has only been with Maclays for two years.

He joined when the Scottish firm acquired the City Law Partnership, where Skerrett was senior partner, in November 2004.

Skerrett takes over on 1 June from Michael Walker, who retires on 31 May after four years as chairman and 30 years at Maclays. Walker will continue with the firm as a consultant.