Ex-Linklaters Learning Director Steps Into Leadership Role
The City of London Law Society (CLLS) has confirmed the appointment of Patrick McCann, the former global learning director at Magic Circle law firm Linklaters, as its next chief executive.
McCann, a seasoned legal learning and development professional, brings over three decades of experience in legal training and social mobility initiatives. He will officially take over the reins from current CEO Matthew Rous in September 2025.
The CLLS, which represents more than 21,000 solicitors and 67 member firms across the City, is a key voice in the legal sector. Its advocacy and support efforts span everything from training schemes to policy lobbying. McCann’s long-standing involvement with the Society makes this transition a natural next step.
He’s no stranger to the CLLS. Since 2010, McCann has played an active role in shaping its training agenda, most recently serving as Chair of its Training Committee.
McCann’s career began at Bird & Bird, where he worked as a training manager. He later held senior learning roles at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner (BCLP) and Herbert Smith Freehills before joining Linklaters. His eight-year tenure at the Magic Circle firm further cemented his reputation as a pioneer in legal learning.
Beyond traditional training, McCann has left a notable mark on the sector through innovative social mobility programmes. These include:
- Social Welfare Solicitors’ Qualification Fund: Raised over £1.2 million to support the qualification of more than 120 social welfare lawyers.
- City Century: A coalition of 50+ law firms backing solicitor apprenticeships, where McCann serves as co-CEO.
- The LLP!: A leadership development scheme for queer-identifying legal professionals.
- UK Social Mobility Awards Champion of the Year: An accolade that recognises his impact on making the legal profession more accessible.
“It is a privilege to be taking on this role… I have worked with the CLLS for many years, most recently as its Training Committee Chair but also on some fantastic collaborative initiatives, and am deeply impressed at how much talent and goodwill there is. I am excited to make the most of this opportunity to leverage all the great work our sector does and drive positive impact, both within and beyond law,” said McCann.
Outgoing chief executive Matthew Rous shared his confidence in the appointment: “I can think of nobody more capable to hand over the reins to than Patrick. He has been the dynamo behind some of our most impactful campaigns in recent years, as well as an inspirational Chair of our Training Committee.”
With his official start date set for September 2025, Patrick McCann’s leadership signals a continued commitment to inclusion, innovation, and excellence within the City’s legal profession. His blend of professional acumen and social awareness positions him well to drive the next phase of growth for the CLLS.
