2008 - a milestone year!

2008 is a milestone year for Harper Macleod as we celebrate our first 20 years in business.  Despite this, it feels like hardly any time since Rod McKenzie and I shared our vision.  "A dynamic firm that is a workplace of opportunity for employees and a compelling, cost-effective business proposition for our clients." 

Since we started that fledgling commercial law practice from scratch back in 1988, we've evolved to become of Scotland's leading commercial law firms.  Today, we employ 40 Partners, 115 Fee Earners and a complement of 230 staff across our three offices in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Inverness.   

Many clients from those early days have remained with our firm for the entire time we've been in business.  We are told time again that we're respected by these clients as true business partners.  We consistently demonstrate strong commercial acumen they value, rather than simply acting as legal advisers.   

Our 20th anniversary sees a range of special sectoral events, charitable fundraising, a new pro bono scheme and themed guest lectures.  Yet, while we celebrate these first 20 years, we're looking forward to the next 20 and beyond.   

We are committed to growth.  By 2009 we want to be top of the first division.  And, this in turn, means continued innovation and support for our existing and new clients.  Our top clients will remain top clients and our new clients will stay with Harper Macleod because of the added value we offer.   

The Scottish government is leading the development and growth of a new Scotland.  This, in turn, creates opportunity for our firm.  We are committed to excellence in how we address the needs of the new Scotland and its people.  But we are at the heart of these changes too.  I chaired the debate on the "Single Survey", set to revolutionise house buying and selling in Scotland.  The Scottish Government invited me to investigate the external scrutiny of public services, resulting in the 2007 Crerar Review.   

Deregulation of the legal profession represents a market force we can benefit from.  Harper Macleod contributed to the review undertaken by government.  We await a final decision with anticipation.  I remain confident our strong brand means we can differentiate our firm and capabilities to support clients and employees alike with both traditional and, potentially, new services. 

I sincerely thank our clients and employees who have contributed to our achievements over the past 20 years.  And equally important, I look forward to sharing continued growth and success with them over the next 20! 

Professor Lorne D Crerar, Chairman

February 1, 2008