South: Shoosmiths appoints Ben Bennett as COO

Benedict (Ben) Bennett has joined law firm Shoosmiths as chief operating officer, the first incumbent of this newly created role.

Reporting to CEO Simon Boss, Bennett’s remit is to support and help drive business growth, innovation and operational excellence across the firm. As a member of Shoosmiths’ board he will lead the business services team comprising strategic change, quality & risk, information services, HR & estates management and business development.

Simon Boss, CEO, said: “We are delighted to welcome Ben to Shoosmiths.  Ben’s experience and credentials will help us with our ambitious growth plan and our strategic vision to be the leading law firm in the UK legal sector focused on the UK market.”

Originally qualifying as a solicitor at Herbert Smith, Bennett has been in senior management roles and a partner in three major professional service firms over the last 15 years. Previously he was COO at Farrer & Co and now joins from Saffery Champness where he was executive partner.

Bennett added: “I am excited to be joining Shoosmiths. It is an ambitious and progressive firm, with a real focus on providing an exceptional client experience through its truly national network of offices. I look forward to working with Simon, the board, the partners and directors in achieving the firm’s strategic vision.”

Bennett’s appointment follows a raft of other senior partner hires across the firm this year boosting our expertise in the technology, corporate, real estate, tax, employment, restructuring and white collar crime practices and strengthening our presence in key locations, including London and Glasgow. In response to growing demand for its services, the London office has just announced a pre-let new office in the City of London.