He first began his career with Turcan Connell as an assistant solicitor in 2007 and returns to play a key role in supporting the growth and extending the knowledge of the firm’s rural expertise.

He has considerable experience in advising clients investing in Scotland and predominantly handles the purchase and sale of rural properties, including estates, farms and forestry.

Mr Soutar is the second key strategic hire into the firm’s land and property team in recent weeks, following the arrival of senior renewables expert Lesley Roarty as a legal director.

Ms Roarty has dedicated almost 20 years to advising clients on all matters relating to the renewable energy sectors. She has dealt with projects all over Scotland involving a range of technologies including hydro, solar, energy from waste and more recently, battery storage, with a particular emphasis on onshore wind.

Chairman Alexander Garden said: “We are delighted to welcome both Murray and Lesley to our growing land and property team. Together they bring a wealth of experience to the Firm and their particular skills and knowledge will be invaluable in supporting our clients.”