Parklane Plowden appoints new chair

Leeds and Newcastle-based barristers’ chambers Parklane Plowden has appointed John Cleland as its new non-executive chair as it pursues further growth.

John brings extensive legal sector leadership experience, having spent more than 26 years at international law firm Pinsent Masons.

During his career with the firm, he served as a partner before becoming global managing partner between 2015 and 2023, when he retired.

Since leaving Pinsent Masons, John has taken on several non-executive positions, including chairing the boards of trustees at Leeds-based charity St Anne’s Community Services and the Skipton Building Society Charitable Foundation.

At Parklane Plowden, he will work alongside head of chambers Elizabeth Hodgson, the executive board and senior management team to support the organisation's strategic growth plans.

John said: “Parklane Plowden is an ambitious and progressive set, with real strength across its practice areas and I am excited to be taking on the role.

“As non-executive chairman, I look forward to working closely with all the teams as Parklane Plowden continues to develop for the benefit of its clients, its staff and its members.”

Established in 2007, Parklane Plowden is led by head of chambers Elizabeth Hodgson and has 119 barristers across its Leeds and Newcastle offices.

Under her leadership, the chambers has secured Band 1 rankings across five practice areas in the 2026 Chambers & Partners directory, while the 2027 Legal 500 recognises it as a tier one barristers’ set across five specialisms, with 94 barristers individually recommended.

Helen added: “I am delighted to welcome John as our new non-executive chairman to support the next phase of our growth, and greatly looking forward to working with him.

“He brings a wealth of experience, having led a major international law firm, and a deep understanding of the legal market in which we operate, as well as a wider perspective of governance gained in his other non-executive roles.”

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