Ellisons Solicitors has appointed John Turner as the firm’s first ever Chief Operating Officer (COO).Turner was formerly Ellisons’ Chief Information Officer (CIO), and was responsible for advising the firm on the technological changes in the legal sector.

Turner’s new role will see him take a place on Ellisons’ management board, the body responsible for the firm’s overall management and strategy. His role will involve shaping, implementing and strengthening the firm’s operational processes and infrastructure to support Ellisons’ ambitious growth plans.

John Turner said: “Ellisons has put in place an exciting new strategy to progress and accelerate its growth. I am looking forward to taking up the new role of COO, and to driving that new strategy forward. Ellisons has a hugely talented work force, and it is a privilege to work with them. The team’s expertise gives me enormous confidence that the firm’s plans can be achieved.”

Senior Partner, Guy Longhurst, said: “We believe John’s background and expertise make him ideally suited to this position, ensuring Ellisons remains at the forefront of developments in our industry. With the opening of our new office in Chelmsford earlier this year, these are extraordinarily exciting times for the firm, and I am delighted John has agreed to join us and strengthen our senior management team”.

Prior to joining Ellisons, John worked for a number of years in both law and professional service firms, including undertaking the role of IT Director for one of the UK’s top 10 accountancy practices, BDO LLP. He has also worked at Allen & Overy and AMP.