The Cardiff & District Law Society has appointed Rachelle Sellek, managing partner at leading law firm Acuity Legal, as its president for the coming year. She becomes the Society’s 132nd president since its foundation in 1886.
As the largest body of its type in Wales with more than 1,700 members, the Society represents the interests of solicitors and others in the legal profession in the greater Cardiff area, including Penarth and Barry. Its varied and diverse membership ranges from sole practitioners to large commercial firms.
Continuing the excellent work of outgoing president Paul Hopkins, Rachelle will during her tenure focus on extending the Society’s reach, growing its relevance and engaging with the wider community, including business groups.
Celebrating the successes of local law firms and the quality of work achieved across all spheres of the profession will also be a priority for the new president.
On her appointment, Rachelle said: “I know first-hand how hard my colleagues in the legal profession work. I want to spread the word about their drive, determination and commitment to support and represent individuals, organisations and businesses of all shapes and sizes.”
The agenda under Rachelle’s direction for the coming year includes a campaign focused on the flourishing creative industries in Wales, as well as providing a platform for young local talent to informally share experiences with their peers – not just lawyers, but other professionals such as accountants, bankers, surveyors and business entrepreneurs.
In response to the ever-changing regulatory landscape, another initiative will be to create a forum for in-house compliance officers to share best practice.