The Royal Faculty of Procurators in Glasgow, one of Scotland’s most historic professional membership bodies, has appointed Partner and our Head of Dispute Resolution and Litigation, John Bett as its new Dean.
John steps up to the role from Vice-Dean, a position he has held for the past two years. He succeeds Stephen Vallance, of Harper Macleod, who has been made an honorary member in recognition of his significant contribution to the work of the Faculty. Mr Vallance will remain on its governing council as Immediate Past Dean.
The new Dean’s appointment was confirmed at the body’s Annual General Meeting, held in its historic Faculty Hall home at Nelson Mandela Place in Glasgow city centre last night (Wednesday 18 June 2025). Craig Donnelly, a consumer and business litigation lawyer who is a Director at Holmes Mackillop, was chosen as successor to John as Vice-Dean.
Photo: Sheriff Principal Aisha Anwar, centre, and Stephen Vallance, second right, receiving their honorary memberships of The Royal Faculty of Procurators in Glasgow with, from left, Craig Donnelly, John Bett and John McKenzie, the Faculty’s Chief Executive
The Royal Faculty was incorporated prior to 1668 and represents the interests of the legal profession across Glasgow and West Central Scotland, as well as being home to an extensive law library, running highly regarded professional development programmes and supporting charitable causes and bursaries.
John has been a member of its council since 2020 and he said: “I am incredibly proud to be part of the Royal Faculty and the work that it does, so to become Dean is a huge honour. I am very much looking forward to being in the role.
“This is an organisation which is a notable constant in the history of professional and civic life in Glasgow, playing a vital role in representing the interests of our legal community over hundreds of years.
“While it is steeped in history, as the law evolves so too does the Faculty. It is ever-changing. Our role in ensuring our members have access to insight and analysis of the latest legislative changes, rulings or technological advancement are as important and relevant now as it was in the 1600s.”
Last night’s AGM also saw special recognition for Aisha Anwar, Sheriff Principal of Glasgow and Strathkelvin and President of the Sheriff Appeal Court. She was granted honorary membership of the Royal Faculty in recognition of her distinguished and continued contribution to the legal profession in Glasgow, West Central Scotland and throughout the country.
John said: “Sheriff Principal Anwar is a significant figure in Scotland’s legal community and a great supporter of the work our organisation does, not least by encouraging the new generation of solicitors through the Sheriff Principal’s Mooting Competition, as well as supporting our seminar programme. It’s a privilege for the Royal Faculty to recognise that with this well-deserved honorary membership.”
Published 19 June 2025
