Mr Cormack succeeds Glasgow-based Laura Cameron, who on taking on the role seven years ago was Pinsent Masons’ first female group head and first female board member, and from May will take on a new role as the firm’s managing partner.

Pinsent Masons managing partner, John Cleland, said: “I am delighted to confirm Jim Cormack KC has been appointed as Laura’s successor. This time last year, Jim was named team leader for litigation, regulatory and tax, a role in which he has excelled, and which confirmed his suitability for the group head position.

“Laura’s experience as a board member, along with her combination of skills, has proved highly effective in overseeing the continual growth of our largest practice group. Our huge thanks go to Laura for all she has done for the business while leading the RAS group.”

Mr Cormack added: “I am thrilled to have the chance to head up the firm’s global RAS offering and to work with a galaxy of talent who are the best in the business at helping clients to avoid, manage and resolve disputes.

“Laura’s success was to champion, guide and encourage, at the same time as giving others space to bring their own skills, talents and experiences to take our business forward, and I will do my best to fill the very big shoes she has left behind.”

Glasgow-based partner Joanne Gillies has taken over Mr Cormack’s previous role as head of litigation, regulatory and tax (LRT) and, along with Sibylle Schumacher, has been appointed as joint global team leader.

Ms Gillies is a solicitor advocate with a substantial financial services and insolvency litigation practice. Dual qualified in England & Wales and in Scotland, for the last several years she has been office lead for LRT in Glasgow and has also deputised for the Glasgow head of office as well as being the firm’s training principal for Scotland.