Birmingham Law Society names new president

Birmingham Law Society has appointed Guy Barnett as its 134th president, with plans to strengthen representation, professional connections and community engagement across the region’s legal sector.

Guy formally took office at the society’s annual general meeting on September 24 and will serve until September 2027.

He brings extensive legal experience and knowledge of the organisation, having previously served on its board and council, as well as most recently holding the position of interim chief executive.

His presidency will focus on four priorities: advancing the society, connecting Birmingham's legal community, engaging members and making a wider contribution to the city.

Plans include strengthening the society’s council, expanding professional networking and mentoring opportunities, and developing initiatives to encourage greater participation across the legal profession.

Guy will also champion charitable fundraising, selecting Carter the Brave, which supports Birmingham Children's Hospital, as his presidential cause.

He plans to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in January as part of a wider fundraising campaign involving legal firms, chambers and society members.

Guy said: “Birmingham Law Society must be a voice for the legal community it represents.

“That means being prepared to stand up and speak when it is needed, but it also means listening. We need to understand what our members are experiencing, the pressures and opportunities facing the profession and where their society can make a difference.

“I bring decades of experience to the presidency and hope that can provide a steady hand as we enter this next chapter. 

“I want to strengthen council and our committees, and ensure Birmingham Law Society is in an even stronger position when I hand over the presidential chain next year to Sabina Kauser – the new vice president.

“This isn’t about one person or one presidential year. 

“It is about building on more than two centuries of history while ensuring the society continues to evolve for the profession it represents today and tomorrow. 

“My ambition is simple: one profession, one region, one voice.”

Guy’s appointment follows Calum Nisbet taking up the position of chief executive, with the new leadership team focused on strengthening the society's role in representing Birmingham's legal community.

Guy added: “I want people to talk to us. 

“Tell us what BLS does well and where we could be better. 

“Tell us about the issues affecting your firm, your organisation, your career or your part of the profession.

“Birmingham Law Society has extraordinary experience, expertise and energy within its membership. 

“Our job is to listen to it, connect it and, when necessary, give it a voice.

“If council is stronger, our committees are better connected, junior lawyers have a meaningful voice and new relationships have been created across the profession when I hand over the presidential chain, we will have made genuine progress.”

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