Catherine Oates-Smith will fit in to the new role, which was specifically created as part of Kemp Strang’s strategic and governance review this year, to position the firm for strong growth over the next three years. 

The firm’s managing partner, Michael Joseph, said the COO role is integral to the firm's growth plans. "

We’ve been looking for an experienced senior manager capable of putting the right structures and processes in place to achieve those plans and develop a clear business development pipeline,” he said.

Oates-Smith has a corporate finance and insolvency law background diverging into business development and management positions.

“At our stage of development, it’s important for the COO to understand the ins and outs of law firm practices and client care while balancing this with financial imperatives, human resourcing and firm culture,” said Joseph. 

“[Her] understanding of the legal environment, coupled with her energy and ideas, will move the firm towards achieving its growth targets.”

Oates-Smith will commence as COO at Kemp Strang on 3 October.