Flex Legal names new chief executive

Alternative legal services provider Flex Legal, headquartered in London, has appointed Rachel Murphy as chief executive, with Kate Gaskell returning to her previous role as chief operating officer.

Rachel joins from Lawyers on Demand, part of Consilio, where she spent five years as managing director and was responsible for growth across the UK and Europe.

She joined Lawyers on Demand in 2015 following a role as client relationship manager at international law firm Olswang and previously held client development positions across professional services.

Rachel said: “I feel incredibly excited to join Kate and rest the team at Flex Legal – a wonderful business I have long admired for its human-centred approach and the positive impact it has had on so many early and established legal careers. 

“As the legal industry continues to evolve and change at pace, this is an exciting time to be right at the centre of developing and curating the future talent needed by legal teams.” 

Kate will work alongside Rachel as Flex Legal separates its chief executive and chief operating officer responsibilities ahead of its next phase of growth.

In her new role, Kate will focus on executing the company’s long-term strategy and supporting its continued development.

Kate added: “It's been a privilege to lead Flex through a period of exceptional growth and transformation. 

“Together we've built a platform for significant further scale as well as strong momentum in all of our business lines. 

“As we continue to grow, separating chief executive and chief operating officer responsibilities is the right step for the business. 

“I am delighted to be continuing as chief operating officer and look forward to working with Rachel and the rest of the team as we build on everything we've achieved and continue to pursue our important mission.” 

Founded a decade ago, Flex Legal employs 40 people across London and Manchester and provides businesses and law firms with on-demand legal professionals.

It also runs a social mobility programme for aspiring lawyers and company secretaries from under-represented backgrounds, with more than 120 people completing its Flex Trainee scheme to date.

The leadership changes follow Flex Legal being named New Law Business of the Year at The Lawyer Awards and gaining recognition in Chambers and Partners’ New Law Guide 2026.

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