Iain Johnston is to be the Liverpool firm’s new chief operating officer and has founded, developed and sold or floated several technology businesses. Tony McDonough reports.

Liverpool law firm Hill Dickinson has appointed a new chief operating officer with a specialist background in developing technology-based businesses.

Iain Johnston has founded, developed and sold or floated several technology businesses.

He brings more than 25 years’ experience in marketing services and business development, including leading or working with the boards of companies undergoing rapid change and strategic growth.

Prior to joining St Paul’s Square-based Hill Dickinson, Mr Johnston spent 11 years running GB Group PLC and was involved with Alterian PLC for 13 years, including running the business as deputy chairman prior to its sale.

And ass CEO he helped turn around the Loewy Group and has spent 16 years as chairman of Event Marketing Solutions.

Hill Dickinson chief executive Peter Jackson said: “Iain’s arrival marks the next step for us in terms of understanding and maximising the commercial advantage that technology has brought to some of the complex and evolving markets we operate in.

“He will be key to us accelerating our growth journey while delivering an outstanding client experience. I look forward to working with him over the coming years.”

Mr Johnston added: “Having worked with Hill Dickinson for the last 18 months in a non-executive director capacity, I have seen first-hand the potential of the firm.

“I’m honoured to be taking on the role and looking forward to being part of Hill Dickinson’s next exciting chapter.”

Last month, the firm announced its intention to appoint a COO, as part of wider changes to its management structure which saw Peter Jackson named as CEO and David Wareing becoming chairman.