St John’s Buildings Chambers appoints new Chief Executive
St John’s Buildings, one of the country’s largest barristers’ chambers with more than 240 barristers and offices in Manchester, Liverpool, Chester, Sheffield and Leeds, has announced its intention to appoint David Anderson as its new Chief Executive.
David takes over the role from Chris Ronan, who retires in September after more than 35 years at St John’s Buildings.
David, the former President of Manchester Law Society and Executive Assistant to the Chairman of the Bar, joined St John’s Buildings in 2008, firstly as Head of Corporate Services and subsequently as Chief Operating Officer. David said of his appointment:
“Having joined St John’s Buildings when it had two sites and 130 barristers, I have been fortunate to support Chambers’ growth and success. I am delighted to be trusted with the role of leading such a fantastic chambers into the next phase of its development and I look forward to continuing Chris Ronan and the Board’s excellent work and ensuring we continue to provide an exceptional service to our clients and barristers.”
Described by the independent legal directories as a set with “unrivalled” strength in breadth and depth of knowledge, St John’s Buildings has grown to be the largest Chambers in the North of England. In recent years the Chambers has invested heavily in its wellbeing and support provisions as well as in information security, securing ISO27001 and Cyber Essentials Plus certification. These are all issues in which David has been instrumental.
“We have deliberately directed our resources at supporting our barristers and staff in achieving their career goals, while working in an inclusive and supportive environment. I want to continue to pursue an agenda that ensures our clients receive the very best service from barristers and staff who feel well supported, can set personal goals and have the opportunity to reach their potential. With the quality of support we offer and the exceptional knowledge and skill of our barristers, there is no limit to that potential.” David said.
Frances Heaton KC, Joint Head of Chambers, said: “David has been fundamental to our success in recent years, working closely with Chris Ronan and the Board in driving improvements in the way we deliver our service, the technology and facilities we use and our approach to client care and data protection. Appointing David as CEO is a natural step in our succession planning and we look forward to the positive impact David will have on the continued success of Chambers.”
