Stephen Vallance

Mr Vallance assumes the position having held the vice-deanship for two years and having been a council member for six. He replaces the current dean Austin Lafferty.

The RFPG was incorporated prior to 1668 and is one of the oldest professional membership bodies in Scotland. It serves the needs of the legal profession in Glasgow and the west of Scotland with an extensive legal library and comprehensive professional education programme.

Mr Vallance said: “The RFPG has successfully served its members for centuries. Like all professions, the legal sector does not stand still. We are experiencing a period of change whether that be digitisation, automation or changing legislation to fit a modern and forward-thinking Scotland.

“I’m looking forward to working with my fellow council members and the entire membership body to embrace that change, while fully harnessing the history upon which the RFPG was founded.”

John McKenzie, the RFPG’s chief executive, said: “Stephen’s nomination is fitting given not only his long service as a council member, but his standing in Scotland’s legal profession. Over a long career he has immersed himself in delivering a high standard of professional advice while supporting the development and modernisation of the profession.”