From Legal Secretary to Aspiring Solicitor: McCay Legal Invests in Professional Development and the Next Generation of Legal Talent

McCay Legal is delighted to celebrate an exciting new chapter in the career of longstanding legal professional Gillian Smyth, who has embarked on a Law Degree Apprenticeship through Ulster University, combining academic study with hands-on experience at the firm.

With over 13 years of experience working as a Legal Secretary, Gillian has built an extensive knowledge of the legal sector, developing a strong foundation in legal procedures, client care and the day-to-day demands of a busy legal practice. Gillian joined McCay Legal in 2023 when it acquired another law firm.

Recognising Talent. Creating Opportunity.

Within a relatively short period following the acquisition, McCay Legal’s management team identified Gillian’s exceptional organisational abilities, initiative and understanding of legal practice operations.

The firm worked closely with Gillian to identify opportunities that would enable her to broaden her expertise, take on additional responsibilities and establish a clear pathway for long-term career progression.

Since then, Gillian has become increasingly involved in the operational and organisational development of McCay Legal, working closely alongside Managing Director Gareth McCay on internal structures, strategic initiatives and the implementation of processes designed to support the firm’s continued growth.

This culminated in Gillian being promoted to the role of Operations Manager in August 2025 and joining the firm’s management team.

Alongside her role as Operations Manager, Gillian continues to play an integral role within the firm’s Property team, supporting the delivery of an efficient, professional and client-focused property service.

A New Chapter in Professional Development

Building on her background, Gillian is now taking the next step in her professional journey by commencing a Law Degree Apprenticeship with Ulster University.

The programme provides an opportunity to pursue a law degree while remaining employed with the firm, allowing Gillian to combine her existing industry knowledge with formal legal education.

This approach offers a valuable balance between academic learning and real-world application, enabling Gillian to continue contributing to the firm while developing the legal knowledge and professional competencies necessary for the next stage of her career.

For McCay Legal, the decision reflects a wider commitment to creating meaningful career pathways for employees who demonstrate ambition, dedication and the potential to progress.

Gillian Smith, Operations Manager at McCay Legal, commented:

“I’m incredibly grateful to McCay Legal for recognising my potential and supporting me in taking this next step in my career. I thoroughly enjoy my role and working closely with our clients, so having the opportunity to continue doing what I love while working towards a professional qualification is something I’m really excited about. I’m looking forward to embracing this new challenge and continuing to grow within the firm.”

Investing in People. Investing in the Future.

As McCay Legal continues to strengthen its presence across the North West, the firm remains committed to building a workforce equipped with the skills, expertise and confidence to meet the evolving demands of the legal profession.

Central to this approach is a belief that professional development should not be limited to traditional entry routes into law. Experience gained through years of working within the profession can provide an invaluable foundation for further progression, particularly when supported by the right opportunities, mentorship and investment.

Managing Director Gareth McCay commented:

“At McCay Legal, we have always believed that one of the greatest strengths of any business is its people. When we acquired the practice on Limavady Road, it became evident very quickly that Gillian possessed a wealth of knowledge, experience and ability that could be developed further.

What stood out was not simply her experience as a Legal Secretary, but her initiative, her understanding of how a legal practice operates and her ability to contribute to the wider development of the firm.

We believe strongly in recognising talent from within and giving our people the opportunity to fulfil their potential. Supporting Gillian through her law degree apprenticeship is a natural extension of that commitment.

The legal profession is evolving, and firms must evolve with it. That means embracing alternative pathways into the profession, investing in skills and ensuring that talented individuals have opportunities to progress, regardless of where their careers began.

We are incredibly proud of Gillian and look forward to supporting her throughout this exciting next chapter.”

Looking Ahead

Gillian’s progression represents more than an individual career milestone. It highlights the value of investing in existing employees, recognising transferable skills and creating opportunities for professional growth within the workplace.

Gillian’s journey demonstrates how apprenticeships and work-based learning can offer an accessible and practical route towards further qualifications, allowing experienced professionals to advance their careers without stepping away from the workplace.

For McCay Legal, operating from offices in Derry/Londonderry, Omagh and Strabane, supporting employees through opportunities such as this remains an important part of the firm’s long-term vision.

McCay Legal | Integrity. Endeavour. Success.

www.mccay.legal

 

ENDS

Media enquiries: McCay Legal | 028 7137 1705 | www.mccay.legal