Thomas Eggar brings in US strategy guru

Joey Smith has been brought in to help the firm deliver its three-year business plan and help drive its plans for growth. He will also attend its quarterly partner council meetings.

Smith will continue in his role as chairman of Virginia-based Williams Mullen. ­During his 26 years in charge of the firm he has overseen its growth from a 25-lawyer practice with a turnover of $25m (£16.03m) to one of the biggest firms in Virginia, with 300 lawyers and ­revenues of $150m.

Thomas Eggar managing partner Tony Edwards said: “The appointment of Joey to the position of strategy adviser is exciting and heralds the beginning of a new direction for Thomas Eggar.

“We have ambitious growth plans outlined for the next three years and we’ll benefit from the US experience Joey brings. Both the US and UK legal industries have lessons for one another.”

But Edwards said his firm is not looking to merge with Williams Mul­len, although Thomas Eggar is planning a London tie-up.

Smith added: “I’ve known the firm [Thomas Eggar] for many years and hold them in the highest regard, as a legal firm reputed for its outstanding lawyers and excellent client service. I very much look forward to this challenging role.”