Ms Kelly is a banking partner in the global law firm’s Edinburgh and London offices, serving as a member of both the Dentons UK, Ireland and Middle East LLP’s board and the Firm’s global board. She will step into the role from November 10, 2025, taking over from incumbent Nick Park.

“I am excited to assume the role of Non-Executive Chair and support Dentons as we continue to prioritize aligning and integrating the Firm,” commented Ms Kelly. “Dentons is uniquely positioned in more than 80 countries to provide support and solutions to clients, and I plan to look at ways in which we can bring client and leadership perspectives into the boardroom to benefit everyone.”

In her new role, Ms Kelly will preside over meetings of the global board, the global advisory committee and the General Assembly of the Verein, ensuring that all bodies comply with their responsibilities, applicable laws and regulations.

“With my thanks to Nick for his service, I am delighted to welcome Susan as our incoming Non-Executive Chair of the Global Board. Susan has been an integral part of Dentons for many years. We will all benefit from her years of legal and industry experience as we continue to deliver exceptional client service,” said global CEO Kate Barton. “She is a seasoned and dynamic operator, and I am confident that she will play a key role in overseeing the function of the Global Board as we lead the Firm from strength to greater strength.”

Ms Kelly joined Dentons in Scotland (formerly Maclay Murray & Spens) in 1991 and became a Partner in 1998. She has expertise across a wide range of sectors, including food and drink, manufacturing, technology and real estate. She has a depth of experience in all aspects of corporate lending, acquisition finance and real estate finance in both domestic and international markets.

Ms Kelly has been consistently ranked as a Band 1 expert in Finance by both Chambers and Legal 500 over the years. She is also included in the Legal 500 Hall of Fame and rated as an Eminent Practitioner by Chambers, awarded to lawyers who are highly influential in their field. Chambers referred to Ms Kelly as a “distinguished practitioner, praised for her involvement in significant deals”. External experience includes serving on the Board of Strathclyde University and membership of its Investment and Innovation Committee where she helped establish a governance framework and led the university to returns on investment third behind Cambridge and Oxford in UK rankings.