The Law Society's Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Stuart Popham, senior partner of Clifford Chance, in recognition of Stuart's immense contribution to the profession.
Stuart's impact on the profession is evidenced at all levels, from supporting the development of professional education, to encouraging social responsibility through the launch of the Clifford Chance Foundation. Stuart has been a key player in liberalising inaccessible overseas legal markets and promoting Britain's financial strength.
Stuart's contributions to the legal services market have been noted by many.
Sir Andrew Cahn, permanent secretary of UK Trade and Investment, commented: 'Stuart has long been a supporter of UKTI and our work with the Law Society to improve market access for UK-based firms in emerging markets. It is absolutely right that he should be honoured with a lifetime achievement award. A fine leader, he has dedicated much free time and resources to furthering legal services interests at home and abroad for many years.'
Sir Win Bischoff, Chairman of Lloyds TSB, added: 'His lifetime achievement award is a fitting tribute to his highly successful tenure as senior partner at Clifford Chance. He has not only propelled his firm to great prominence but has transformed City perceptions of the role that law firms can play in the wider economy. In doing so he has been an eloquent spokesman for financial services and their symbiotic relationship with the professions and the value they together bring to the country.'
Stuart Popham is an inspirational figure within the profession and the Law Society is pleased to recognise his work through this award.