Dundee’s largest law firm has built on the strength of its litigation and private client teams with the promotion of two new partners.
Former professional footballer Grant Johnson and mechanical engineer John Kydd have taken on new positions in the city office of Thorntons Solicitors.
Joint managing partner Craig Nicol have welcomed the two men to their new roles, saying they had become “valuable assets” to the firm.
Mr Johnson joined Thorntons in 2003, having studied law at Dundee University during his footballing commitments.
His career saw him play for Dundee United, Huddersfield and Montrose before finishing his playing days at Brechin City in 2007, where he now fulfils a part-time coaching role.
“Football has always played a big part in my life and I still have a coaching role at Brechin City,” Mr Johnson said.
“However, injury meant that I was unable to continue playing on a full-time basis and I had to look at a career change.”
He added: “I will have been with Thorntons 10 years, and what better way to mark this milestone than by being made partner?”
Mr Kydd spent 14 years as a mechanical engineer before enrolling at Dundee University to study for a law degree and diploma. He joined Thorntons as a trainee in 2001, gaining experience with both the private client and litigation teams.
He has supported various departments during his career at Thorntons, becoming an associate in the litigation department in 2007.
“I am thrilled to become a partner at Thorntons,” she said.
“The firm have been extremely supportive of me since I started as a trainee and I have been able to build on my skills and experience as a result of that backing.
“Thorntons has an exciting and diverse range of clients and I have thoroughly enjoyed working within the litigation team.
“I am looking forward to settling into this new role and continue to work hard to provide a first class service to our clients.”
Congratulating the men on their promotions, Mr Nicol said: “Grant and John are valuable assets in our litigation and private client departments.
“Both have built up extensive experience and knowledge within their specialist areas and, on behalf of the firm, I congratulate both on their well-deserved promotions. I look forward to working with them as they take on a bigger role within their teams.”
The 155-year-old company, which has its headquarters at Whitehall House on Yeaman Shore, Dundee, employs about 220 staff across its five offices in Tayside and Edinburgh.