The move forms part of its continued investment in developing future leaders and building a lasting legacy as the firm celebrates its 90th anniversary this year.

The latest senior appointments include one new partner and six new directors spanning the firm’s legal, Technology & Life Sciences, Rural, and Business Advisory practices across Scotland.

Keith Hamilton has been promoted to partner in recognition of his leadership as chief legal officer and head of governance, risk & compliance (GRC). Mr Hamilton joined the firm in January 2023 and has become a trusted adviser to the board and senior leadership, holding key officer roles including money laundering reporting officer, data protection officer and whistleblowing officer.

The six director promotions are:

• Natalie Robertson (Business Advisory, Elgin): Natalie, who joined Johnston Carmichael as a trainee 19 years ago, leads the firm’s Family Office team, which specialises in advising families on a range of matters from their business interests to succession planning.
• Suzanne Harrold (Business Advisory, Elgin): Suzanne Harrold, CA and ATT qualified, joined the firm in 2009 as a graduate and now supports a portfolio of clients with a focus on innovation and the food and drink sector. She leads Business Development, Digital Advisory and Outsourced Finance regionally, and helps develop our future talent.
• Kim Lawrie (Business Advisory, Dundee): A Chartered Accountant (CA) and Association of Tax Technicians (ATT)-qualified rural specialist with more than 13 years at the firm, Dundee-based Kim brings personal farming experience to her advisory work across Tayside and the wider Rural sector.
• Calum Purdie (Technology & Life Sciences, Edinburgh): As Head of Technology & Life Sciences, Calum plays a leading role in developing and strengthening industry partnerships and continues to grow the firm’s relationships across key UK tech hubs including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, and Newcastle.
• Chris Dick (Business Advisory, Elgin): A senior leader in the Highlands, Moray and North-East regions, Chris has over 14 years’ service and has built a strong and growing Rural client base through effective engagement with the sector.
• Michael Larg (Business Advisory, Elgin): Chartered Accountant (CA) and Association of Tax Technicians (ATT)-qualified, Michael uses his deep technical knowledge to advise businesses across the Rural sector, with a primary focus on major landed estates.

Together, these promotions underline Johnston Carmichael’s commitment to investing in its people and creating a culture of growth and opportunity. The firm has been accredited as a Great Place to Work and is committed to developing its people through initiatives such as the JC Impact Fund, which supports people raising funds for the causes that mean most to them, and its in-house LOV (Living Our Values) Awards.

Lynne Walker, CEO of Johnston Carmichael, said: “Our people are what make Johnston Carmichael and these promotions reflect the depth of talent, expertise and ambition we’re building for the future.

“As we mark our 90th anniversary, we remain focused on providing a platform where our people can build great careers, develop their leadership skills, and make a real difference for our clients and communities.”

Mark Houston, chair and senior partner, Johnston Carmichael, said: “Keith and our new directors embody the values and ambition that define Johnston Carmichael.

“Each has shown exceptional leadership, driving our firm forward through collaboration, quality, and care for our clients and communities.

“I congratulate all those who have been promoted on this well-deserved recognition.”