Law firm recruits head of higher education

Browne Jacobson has recruited Kate Gallagher from a Russell Group university as its new head of Higher Education.

Kate Gallagher joins the UK and Ireland law firm from the University of Nottingham, where she was general counsel and director of Legal Services, a department she established. 

She has more than 25 years’ experience both in private practice – with previous roles at Shoosmiths, Hammonds and Eversheds Sutherland – and as one of the higher education sector’s most experienced in-house lawyers.

Kate was an active member of the Association of University Legal Practitioners (AULP) for 15 years and a committee member for several years.

She was also part of the Employment Lawyers Association’s in-house committee.

Kate said: “Browne Jacobson is highly-regarded in the education sector for its market-leading legal advice, practical support and expert consultancy. Watching from afar, I have been impressed by how the firm has developed its reputation, which is why this feels like a fantastic time to join the firm.

“Having worked in both private practice and in-house for the sector, I am keenly aware of the complex financial and structural challenges that universities face right now.

“However, my experience has shown that there are always exciting opportunities for universities to play a central role in tackling some of society’s biggest issues, and to promote economic growth by commercialising world-class research projects into viable products and services.”

Bettina Rigg, who currently leads the firm’s higher education practice, said: “In Kate, we have found someone with fantastic experience who will help the team I to build on our achievements across our HE practice.

“I look forward to working with Kate and Nick in supporting this transition and driving forward our offer to HE clients now and in the future.”

Kate’s hire follows the appointment of Professor Janice Kay CBE as a special adviser to Browne Jacobson’s higher education team in September.

Pictured (L-R): Head of education Nick MacKenzie and Kate Gallagher