Leading North East law firm Raeburn, Christie, Clark & Wallace (Raeburns), is pleased to announce that Heather Stephen will become their Managing Partner from 1 April 2025. She will take over from Callum McDonald, who is stepping back from partnership to become the firm’s first Chief Operating Officer, in which role he will work alongside Heather in managing the firm.
Heather’s appointment marks a natural progression in Raeburns’ leadership. Having built a stellar reputation within the firm and the wider legal community, she has demonstrated exceptional dedication to her clients and the business. Heather has been with Raeburns since 2006 and has played a key role in the firm’s success for nearly two decades. As Head of the firm’s Commercial Property Department, she will continue to advise a wide range of clients across the country on all aspects of commercial property, with particular emphasis on residential development purchases and sales and option agreements. Heather has had a busy start to the year, having recently led her team in a major client’s acquisition of residential development land at a price of over £64million.
During her time with the firm, Heather has played an active role in the firm’s leadership, serving for some time as a member of the firm’s Management Board, and she has also been the chairperson of Raeburns’ Charity Committee.
Heather commented: “It is an honour to take on the role of Managing Partner at Raeburns. Having been with the firm for nearly 20 years, I have seen first-hand the dedication and talent of our team, as well as the trust our clients place in us. My focus will be on ensuring continuity, strengthening our client relationships, and building on the firm’s success as we move into this next chapter. I look forward to leading Raeburns with the same commitment to excellence and client service that has been at the heart of the firm for decades.”
Callum McDonald has served as Managing Partner since 2019, having been an integral part of Raeburns since joining as an Apprentice Solicitor in 1980 after graduating with honours from Edinburgh University.
Callum stated: “After more than 40 years with Raeburns, it has been a privilege to lead the firm as Managing Partner. I am delighted to pass the reins to Heather, who has been a key part of our leadership team for many years. Her expertise, dedication, and strategic vision make her the ideal person to take the firm forward. I look forward to supporting her and the team for some years to come in my new role, ensuring a smooth transition for our clients and colleagues.”
Raeburns have also announced that Bill Barclay, a partner in the firm and head of its Residential Property Department, will move into a consultant role at the same time. Bill has been a well-known figure in the Aberdeen property business across his 40 years in the profession, and his continued presence within the firm ensures that clients will still benefit from his extensive experience and expertise.
Heather’s appointment underscores Raeburns’ commitment to creating strong leadership from within. As the firm’s first female Managing Partner, her promotion reflects not only her expertise but also the forward-thinking approach of Raeburns as it embarks on this next chapter.
