Ex-NatWest boss Alison Rose to steer Mishcon's new five-year strategy

Mishcon de Reya has unveiled a new five-year strategy focused on three sectors - the innovation economy, private wealth and capital, and real estate - and has appointed former NatWest CEO Dame Alison Rose as independent non-exec chair to oversee its delivery.

The firm, which last month reported profits topping £100 million for the first time, is branding the plan "Vision 2030." Managing partner James Libson said it would give Mishcon "greater alignment and focus" as it looks to double down on its strengths in core sectors and disputes.

AI and operations

Like many rivals, Mishcon is betting heavily on AI. Libson called it the firm’s "new frontier", with tools expected to transform both client work and internal efficiency - the firm rolled out Legora firmwide in July.

The strategy also builds on an ongoing operations overhaul, including offshoring more support roles to its office in India, which centralises support work.

High-profile chair

Rose joined Mishcon as an adviser last year and previously led NatWest. She said she was "delighted to be appointed non-executive chair" and looked forward to working with the board "at an exciting time as the firm continues to innovate and scale across multiple markets."

Libson said Rose had already "delivered huge benefits to the firm", and added: "Alison’s experience and expertise will mean we are best placed to grow and deliver exceptional results for our clients while also making a positive impact in our communities."

Five-year fever

The move echoes similar strategy drives at other mid-market firms. Bird & Bird and Taylor Wessing have both set public revenue targets of €1 billion by 2029, while Fieldfisher has rolled out a "One Europe" integration plan through to 2030. Shoosmiths, meanwhile, recently brought in former DLA Piper CEO Simon Levine as a board adviser to help shape its own 2030 strategy focused on international growth.