Law firm Hammonds has announced the appointment of Crawford Gillies as the firm's first non-executive chairman.

Mr Gillies was formerly managing director for Europe of international management consultants Bain & Co.

In addition Mr Gillies is a director of the Department of Trade and Industry, and is a former chairman of CBI London.

His appointment is the result of Hammonds' decision to reorganise its management structure to strengthen the firm's corporate governance following a strategic review it undertook last year.

The appointment of a non-executive chairman for its partnership board was one of several measures agreed.

Mr Gillies said: "I am delighted to be joining Hammonds at this exciting time in its development. I am convinced that the strength of the firm's partners and staff, its client-focused values and its international network provide it with a strong foundation to grow and prosper in the years ahead. I look forward to working with the board and the partners to take advantage of these key assets for the benefit of all its clients and staff."

Peter Crossley, Hammonds' managing partner, said: "The role of non-executive chairman is pivotal. We are delighted to have secured such a high calibre person."