The chief executive of the Law Society has resigned, citing lack of progress on governance reform.
Catherine Dixon told the Society’s council that she “cannot in good faith continue to be CEO of an organisation which is not prepared to change”.
She took up the position of chief executive of the Law Society of England and Wales in January 2015.
Eddie Goldsmith, chairman of The Conveyancing Association (CA), said: “It’s with some regret that we note Catherine’s resignation from the Law Society – her many achievements to date provided significant optimism that its restructure would enable the organisation to better support its conveyancing members. Catherine’s common-sense approach, and her firm hand on the tiller, had already delivered results, for example, making decisions on CQS approvals quicker. However it’s clear from her resignation that she has been frustrated by the lack of speed in delivering, what she believes, are essential governance changes. We are sorry to see her go.
“As the leading trade body for serious conveyancers, the CA continues to welcome engagement with the Law Society and other representative bodies in order to improve the way we convey. We will continue to produce common sense guides to support our member firms, especially in areas where perhaps the convoluted structures that Catherine alludes to within the Law Society Council have stood in the way of speedy decisions and practical solutions in the past.
“We do though look forward to welcoming Catherine’s replacement and hope they will be able to continue her excellent work in delivering a modern Law Society.
“It’s our own aim to fully represent the conveyancing market, and would urge any firms that are seeking strong representation and practical support and guidance, to contact us about CA membership. We have made significant strides in 2016 and, following the publication of our White Paper at the end of last year, have clear aims and ambitions for improving the process for all stakeholders, as well as a commitment to, and track-record in, delivering a host of benefits for our membership.”