- Des Hudson, chief executive

Des Hudson

'Our ongoing work to help the profession during the economic downturn illustrates how the Law Society’s unique position enables it to supportsolicitors comprehensively'
Des Hudson, chief executive

More efficient and effective than ever

The Law Society continues to transform itself into an organisation which operates according  to clear business principles, and is now more efficient and effective than ever with demanding targets for future efficiency gains.

Like most organisations the Law Society faces many challenges within the current economic climate and we have renewed our focus on containing those of our costs under our control and finding efficiencies directly and with our suppliers.

Considerable effort has gone into managing costs in 2008/09 to ensure that the organisation is in a sustainable position for the future. I have restructured the business to enhance its commercial outlook and potential, taking advantage of opportunities to rationalise and streamline operations.

Leading debate

The Law Society leads the debate on the big issues affecting the profession, including the impact of the Legal Services Act, collective redress and the role of regulation in the business of law. Our legal breakfast meetings have been addressed by some of the most innovative thinkers in today’s legal and business worlds; a short film of each is available on our website.

Uniquely positioned to support the profession

Our energies remain fully focused on our members. We continue to listen to their needs, to represent their interests vigorously and to provide support through products and services that are timely, high quality and value for money. Our ongoing work to help the profession during the economic downturn illustrates how the Law Society’s unique position enables it to support solicitors comprehensively. 
Read more about our 'surviving the downturn' campaign

Goals for 2010

In September 2007 the Council decided on a set of goals to be achieved within a three year time period.

  • The public regard solicitors as the first, natural choice for legal advice and assistance above all other providers.
  • Business at home and around the world views solicitors qualified in England and Wales as the pre-eminent legal advisers and trusted business partners, with English law as the jurisdiction of choice for contracts and dispute resolution.
  • Policy makers and the public view the Society as a leading and trusted authority on all legal issues and a significant leader in a modern democratic society.
  • The government and the profession’s regulators view the Society as the authoritative voice of the entire profession.
  • Solicitors consider the Society to be the most important representative organisation for them, delivering relevant practical support throughout their careers and a leading voice on the business of law.

 

Further priorities

I am committed to:

  • improving value for money for our members.
  • increasing the relevance of the services we deliver for our members.
  • building a sustainable future for the Society by diversifying our sources of income.
  • increasing our status and influence with government and other key stakeholders.
  • improving organisational capability and performance.