Ms Doyle, who joined the firm as a trainee in 1994 and has been a partner for nearly two decades, will continue her day-to-day practice as head of the firm’s asset management and investment funds department alongside her new position.

Managing partner Michael Jackson said: “I am delighted to announce the appointment of Tara Doyle as chairperson of Matheson. Tara is someone with whom I have worked closely for over 25 years and whose professionalism, judgement and people skills I have long admired. She has been recognised by peers and by legal journals as one of the leading financial services lawyers in Europe and one of Europe’s leading female lawyers.

“As the firm’s first female chairperson, her appointment represents an important milestone for the firm and a significant personal achievement for Tara. I look forward to liaising with Tara in her new role, as well as continuing to work with her in her role as head of the firm’s asset management and investment funds department.”

Ms Doyle added: “Thank you to my partners at Matheson for electing me to this role. I am honoured to be the first female chairperson of Matheson.

“I welcome this opportunity, and I look forward to working with Michael Jackson as managing partner in representing the firm and in leading and acting as an active proponent in respect of the firm’s values, whilst continuing to advise our clients as head of the firm’s asset management and investment funds department.”