Kirk Murdoch, chairman of Pinsent Masons in Northern Ireland and Scotland, has passed away.

Mr Murdoch played a pivotal role in the firm’s development during his 35-year career, having joined legacy firm McGrigor Donald as a partner in 1982 and going on to serve as the firm’s managing partner and later its senior partner.

He was one of the primary architects of the merger between Pinsent Masons and McGrigors in 2012, and subsequently sat on the firm’s Board until stepping back late last year.

Richard Foley, senior partner of Pinsent Masons, said: “For very many years, Kirk has been a huge influence in our firm. He was a natural leader and his ambition for the firm - and indeed for the wider Scottish legal profession - marked him out as one of the most distinguished lawyers of his generation.

“He had an incredibly positive influence in shaping the careers of so many and we will miss him dreadfully. He was unfailingly courteous and thoughtful and was blessed with a great sense of humour. So many of us turned to him for wise counsel. We have lost a great friend and our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”

Funeral and memorial details will be provided in due course.