Full-service independent law firm Thorntons has appointed a new Chief People Officer to lead the development and implementation of its industry-leading people policies.
Helen Honeyman joins from Lothian Pension Fund (LPF), the second largest Local Government Pension Scheme in Scotland. She has more than 20 years’ global experience in senior operations and human resources leadership, along with an impressive track record as a Non-Executive Director and Chair.
Based in the firm’s Dundee office, she will work closely with the senior leadership and the existing people team to guide initiatives that strengthen employee engagement, enhance organisational resilience, and attract the diverse range of legal and business support talent required to maintain Thorntons’ market position as a dynamic and forward-thinking law firm.
In 2024 the firm launched one of the most comprehensive family-friendly policies in the sector, significantly increasing family paid leave to 26 weeks full pay and 13 weeks half pay for Paternity, Adoption and Shared Parental Leave, removing financial barriers for working parents. More than 200 flexible working patterns are available and its highly sought after traineeship offers four weeks’ paid leave to travel and gain valuable life experience before taking up employment.
Other employee benefits include a private health plan, corporate gym discounts and comprehensive mental health support.
Founded in 1857, today it is Scotland’s fourth largest independent law firm, employing more than 640 people across 14 offices. It is ranked as a Top 100 UK firm by The Lawyer.
Helen said: “Thorntons has a reputation for its inspiring people strategy and a proven track record in delivering policies that put its people at the heart of the business. It’s very evident that there’s an unwavering commitment to support colleagues in their professional development and personal wellbeing.”
Prior to working at LPF, Helen was Head of Policy, Wellbeing & Governance at Royal Bank of Scotland where she was a key member of the senior leadership team. She is a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), and a Non-Executive Director at Dundee and Angus College.
Lesley Larg, Managing Partner at Thorntons, added: “With extensive experience navigating and influencing senior executive groups within the financial services industry worldwide, Helen is recognised for her strategic insight, ability to shape policy and talent for driving transformative change.
“Our people have been the foundation of our success to date and will be the driving force behind our ambitious growth ahead. Having a Chief People Officer who not only understands our steadfast commitment to colleagues but also brings deep expertise and, importantly, genuine passion, to the role is essential to our next chapter as a business.”