The move represents Ms Gray’s return to the firm where she trained after a seven-year hiatus. She rejoins from Mackinnons, where she previousy led employment services, specialising in the energy and marine sectors.

As part of the employment law team, headed by Sally-Anne Anderson, Ms Gray will have responsibility for developing the practice in the north-east of Scotland.

Managing partner Jacqueline Law said: “Nicola is a very well-known and respected employment lawyer in Aberdeen and we are delighted that she has agreed to re-join us.

“She is vastly experienced in advising on business restructures, transfers of undertakings, disciplinary and grievance matters, redundancy queries as well as settlement agreements, contract consultations, HR issues and tribunal representation.

“She joins at a busy time as we help both commercial clients and individuals across Scotland navigate the challenges caused by coronavirus.”

Ms Gray first joined Aberdein Considine as a trainee solicitor in 2008, shortly after graduating from the University of Aberdeen.

She completed her traineeship within the litigation department of the firm before qualifying as a solicitor based within the employment team, assisting both employee and employer clients with a variety of contentious and non-contentious employment matters.

“I am delighted to be returning to Aberdein Considine at such a busy time for the firm’s employment team,” she said.

“As businesses navigate the challenges presented by COVID-19, it is crucial that they base decisions around their workforce on sound employment advice.

“I look forward to working with Aberdein Considine’s corporate client-base and supporting them both now and in the future.”