Mr McDonald’s appointment comes following the retirement of Keith Allan, who has amassed almost 40 years’ service with the firm, including eight years at the helm as managing partner.

After graduating from Edinburgh University in 1980, Mr McDonald joined the firm as an apprentice and later became head of its commercial property department, acting for a range of national and local commercial clients.

Commenting on his new role in RCCW, he said: “I am most thankful to Keith for successfully leading us over the last eight years through periods of difficult recession. Keith has left the firm in good heart and I am delighted to be taking over as his successor during an exciting time for the company.

“RCCW is a leading full service law firm, and we are one of the biggest with our roots firmly in Aberdeen. We have an extensive knowledge of local markets, people and businesses. The recent acquisitions in Ellon and Stonehaven demonstrate our commitment to the North-east which I am looking forward to developing in my time as managing partner.”

Mr Allan added: “Callum’s knowledge of RCCW and his extensive experience in the industry gives me great faith that he will continue to take the firm from strength to strength and I am confident that this will be a smooth transition for our clients.”