Meet Gillian Carmichael Lemaire, global arbitrator taking chair at Scottish Arbitration Centre

The Scottish Arbitration Centre has confirmed the appointment of a new chair to replace Lord Angus Glennie, who steps down from the role today.

Gillian Carmichael Lemaire - who has been a director of the centre for more than four years - steps into the senior post, bringing 40 years of experience in international arbitration and mediation to the role.

I have had the privilege to work with her on the Board since we joined in 2020, so I understand her commitment to the Centre and the expertise she brings to the organisation

Lemaire started as a litigator in Glasgow and has spent the majority of her career in Paris as well as enjoying spells as partner in various international firms. She is an Honorary Advocate (Paris Bar), a Fellow of the Law Society of Scotland, a Fellow of the CIArb, and a former Vice Chair of CIArb's London Branch committee.

Outside of her practice, Lemaire is a visiting lecturer in International arbitration at the University of Aberdeen.

Lemaire said: "I am thrilled to accept this appointment. I hope that my experience on the Board over the last four years and my work in international arbitration and mediation will continue to assist with the work of the Centre.

"I look forward to working with Andrew and the staff team, as well as Angus and the other Directors of the Centre, and to the new challenges and opportunities that await."

Lord Glennie, who will continue as a Board member after he steps down, said: "I am delighted that Gillian will replace me as Chair of the Board.  I have had the privilege to work with her on the Board since we joined in 2020, so I understand her commitment to the Centre and the expertise she brings to the organisation."

And Andrew Mackenzie, Chief Executive of the Centre, added: "I welcome Gillian as Chair of the Board and very much look forward to working with her as we continue to build on our successes and focus on the coming years under her leadership. 

"I also take this opportunity to pay tribute to Angus for his leadership over the last four years both as Vice Chair and then Chairman. It has been an absolute pleasure to work with Angus. So, I am delighted that he will remain on the Board, demonstrating his commitment to the Centre beyond his period as Chairman."