Womble Bond Dickinson has strengthened its Edinburgh office by hiring two senior lawyers, adding expertise in banking and construction to support its expansion in Scotland.
New directors bring dual-qualified experience
Ainsley Reid and Keith Bishop have joined as legal directors, each holding qualifications in both Scotland and England and Wales. Reid will work in the firm’s banking team, focusing on real estate finance, while Bishop will handle construction law, covering disputes and transactions.
Reid previously worked at CMS, Dentons, and Morton Fraser MacRoberts, where she developed relationships with major banks and alternative lenders across Scotland. She began her career in real estate before moving into banking, giving her a broad perspective on financing deals.
Bishop has experience in private practice and industry, including leading the construction team at Muckle and advising on international projects with Systech in South Africa. His background includes both dispute resolution and deal-making, which the firm believes will enhance its construction, energy, and infrastructure practice.
Firm emphasizes Scottish growth strategy
The Edinburgh office opened in 2017, and since then, the firm has focused on key sectors where demand is rising. These latest hires follow a pattern of targeted recruitment, prioritizing lawyers who can work across different markets.
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Victoria Redman, a partner and board member at Womble Bond Dickinson, described the appointments as an important development for its Scottish expansion. “Both bring strong technical skills and a client-focused approach that matches our way of working,” she said. “Their arrival shows our commitment to investing in Scotland and delivering practical solutions where clients need them.”
Reid’s experience in real estate finance is expected to strengthen the firm’s banking practice, particularly in deals involving lenders and borrowers. Bishop’s combined expertise in disputes and transactions will assist clients in resolving conflicts and managing complex projects.
Law firms in Scotland are competing for talent as demand grows in sectors like energy and infrastructure. Womble Bond Dickinson has chosen to focus on depth, hiring lawyers with specialized skills rather than expanding its team without clear direction.
For clients, these appointments may lead to quicker access to advice that spans Scottish and English law. The firm’s focus on collaboration could also simplify the process of assembling teams for large, multi-disciplinary projects.