Dentons, the world’s largest law firm, has ushered in a new era of leadership by appointing Susan Kelly as the Non-Executive Chair of its Global Board, starting November 10, 2025. Kelly, a seasoned banking partner with extensive experience in the firm’s Edinburgh and London offices, steps into a role formerly held by Nick Park. With a distinguished tenure on both the Dentons UK, Ireland and Middle East LLP Board and the Global Board, Kelly is poised to bring a wealth of insight and expertise to her new position.

In her role as Non-Executive Chair, Kelly will oversee the strategic meetings of the Global Board, the Global Advisory Committee, and the General Assembly of the Verein. She expressed enthusiasm about her new responsibilities, stating, “I am excited to assume the role of Non-Executive Chair and support Dentons as we continue to prioritize aligning and integrating the firm. Dentons is uniquely positioned in more than 80 countries to provide support and solutions to clients, and I plan to look at ways in which we can bring client and leadership perspectives into the boardroom to benefit everyone.”

Dentons’ Global CEO, Kate Barton, highlighted the significance of Kelly’s election for the firm’s trajectory. “With my thanks to Nick for his service, I am delighted to welcome Susan as our incoming Non-Executive Chair of the Global Board. Susan has been an integral part of Dentons for many years. We will all benefit from her years of legal and industry experience as we continue to deliver exceptional client service,” Barton remarked. She further praised Kelly as a “seasoned and dynamic operator,” confident in her ability to guide the Global Board effectively.

Susan Kelly’s illustrious career began in 1991 with Dentons in Scotland, then under its earlier identity, Maclay Murray & Spens. She became a partner in 1998, developing a robust practice focusing on corporate lending, acquisition finance, and real estate finance, spanning both domestic and international arenas. Her expertise covers a wide range of industries, from food and drink to technology and real estate, managing high-value and complex transactions that have consistently earned her top rankings in both Chambers and Legal 500.

Beyond her professional achievements, Kelly has also made significant contributions to academia and governance. She served on the Board of Strathclyde University, where she was instrumental in enhancing its governance frameworks and boosting its investment returns, positioning it just behind Cambridge and Oxford in the UK.

As Dentons continues to expand its global presence, operating in over 80 countries with a commitment to innovation and client service, Susan Kelly’s leadership as the new Non-Executive Chair of the Global Board is set to steer the firm towards new heights of success and influence in the legal world.