Get in touch
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+44 (0)7810 316 135
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tel:+44 (0)7810 316 135
+44 (0)3700 866 943
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tel:+44 (0)3700 866 943
kirsten.hewson@shoosmiths.com
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mailto:kirsten.hewson@shoosmiths.com
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http://uk.linkedin.com/pub/kirsten-hewson/14/725/848

Chair driving strategic growth through purpose & people

As Chair of Shoosmiths, I set the firm’s strategic direction and oversee our operational performance, financial health and regulatory compliance. My leadership is defined by commercial clarity, people-first thinking and a commitment to doing business responsibly. I lead with purpose—developing talent, creating pathways for future leaders, and fostering an inclusive, ethical culture across the firm.

I challenge law firm norms and bring an 'outside-in' mindset to leadership, connecting legal strategy with business outcomes. My focus is simple: putting what matters to clients at the heart of everything we do. This approach combines business acumen with a deep understanding of how law can drive change.

Before becoming Chair in 2024, I led Shoosmiths’ national real estate division and founded the National Planning Law Group. I joined the firm in 2003, led its Solent office from 2008 to 2010, became Head of Planning, and served on the Partnership Council from 2015 to 2018. I joined the Board as Divisional Head of Real Estate in 2018.

Expertise
Legal excellence in action
1,495
Brilliant colleagues driving client excellence.
£217.7m
Turnover in 2024.
1845
180 years of legal excellence.
Recognition & awards
Clients say "She is a seasoned planning lawyer who is commercially-minded and offers clear, strategic advice."
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Chambers UK
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Senior leadership with purpose & perspective
Senior leadership team team
Bold, client-focussed vision with commitment to people, ethics and innovation.
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Meet the experts