This article was previously published in the Ulster Business Magazine.

When Lynsey Mallon became Managing Partner of leading law firm Arthur Cox Northern Ireland, she had a clear vision of how to further enhance the firm’s reputation for excellence. As one of the most respected lawyers in Northern Ireland, Lynsey’s authentic leadership style and collaborative approach have strengthened Arthur Cox’s commitment to talent development and expert client service. On her first anniversary in the role, Lynsey reflects on a year of growth and looks ahead to continued success.

Trust, authenticity and collaboration have been major hallmarks of Lynsey Mallon’s first year as Managing Partner of leading law firm Arthur Cox Northern Ireland.

Since taking up the role in April 2024, Lynsey has made a significant impact, consolidating her reputation as both a progressive and capable leader, and a strategic driver of the firm’s growth. Her leadership has not only ensured the firm’s continued success but has positioned it as a key trusted adviser for locally-based and international business leaders seeking legal guidance in an increasingly complex and dynamic market.

In her inaugural year, Lynsey’s approach to strategic growth, client service delivery, and innovation has resonated deeply with business leaders and senior decision makers who understand the need for both legal expertise and forward-thinking advice in today’s rapidly-evolving business environment. 

“Being Managing Partner of Arthur Cox Northern Ireland is an incredible privilege, and a role I feel inspired to carry out every day,” Lynsey explained.

“The relationship between our clients and our people is at the heart of the firm.  Arthur Cox’s reputation is built on the implicit trust our clients place in us to offer pragmatic, accurate and commercially-minded advice. Authenticity fosters that culture of trust and collaboration, which ultimately leads to better outcomes.”

Those better outcomes for clients are reflected in Arthur Cox being at the centre of some of Northern Ireland’s most significant deals, with Experian’s latest M&A report highlighting the firm’s role in shaping the region’s dealmaking environment. Arthur Cox advised in three of the highest-value transactions recorded in 2024, with a total deal value of £1.29 billion.

“In light of the multifaceted challenges of today’s global economy, business leaders and senior decision makers need more than just a trusted advisor – they need a strategic partner who can provide practical solutions tailored to their business objectives that help them to manage risk, optimise opportunities, and remain compliant with the ever-changing regulatory framework,” continued Lynsey.

“Ongoing shifts in global trade agreements, political relations, and international supply chains require businesses of all sizes to adapt quickly. At Arthur Cox, we adopt a multi-disciplinary approach across all of our practice areas to anticipate potential risks for our clients and to assist them in developing resilient strategies to protect their operations and minimise risk.”

With a proven pedigree for professional skills, a thorough understanding of client requirements and a practical approach, Arthur Cox provides a full-service offering to Northern Ireland-based businesses, multinational corporates and investors, banks and financial institutions, as well as government and public bodies.

Arthur Cox’s Employment, Procurement and Construction groups provide integrated, strategic advice that helps clients navigate complex workforce challenges, regulatory requirements, and large-scale development projects with confidence.

The firm’s Real Estate and Banking and Finance practices collaborate to advise on some of the region’s most significant property transactions. Their combined knowledge ensures that clients – whether developers, investors, or financial institutions – can successfully fund, acquire, and deliver high-value developments that drive economic growth.

Further high-profile examples of Arthur Cox being at the forefront of Northern Ireland business include its multi-disciplinary team advising Links Collection on its landmark Dunluce Lodge development in Portrush, and advising on the successful opening of The Ivy Collection’s first restaurant in Northern Ireland, located in Belfast city centre.

“We are seeing that sustainability remains a key priority for businesses across all sectors, driven by regulatory changes, investor expectations, and a genuine commitment to responsible growth.

“At Arthur Cox, we are advising clients on how to navigate evolving ESG requirements, integrate sustainability into their business strategies, and ensure compliance with emerging legal frameworks.

“Whether it is supporting companies on sustainable finance, renewable energy projects, or corporate governance best practices, we are helping businesses not only meet their obligations but also seize the opportunities that come with embracing sustainability.

“Renowned for our responsiveness, pragmatism and strong commercial acumen, the pedigree of our team of Partners and Associates in Belfast is second to none. We have the scale and flexibility to handle deals of any size. With Arthur Cox offices in Dublin, London, New York and San Francisco, access to in-country legal expertise in those jurisdictions sets us apart in the Northern Ireland market.

“Many business transactions have cross-jurisdictional elements. We operate on a broader international stage, ensuring our clients benefit from that knowledge. We advise on the cultural subtilties of transactions as well at the legal technicalities, which are often crucial for good outcomes.

“Our ability to provide cross-jurisdictional legal advice is a significant strength. As Northern Ireland continues to evolve as a business hub, we are well positioned to support clients looking to establish a presence in the region.” 

A crucial pillar of Lynsey’s strategy for the firm is a steadfast commitment to collaboration, in the belief that a strong internal culture is crucial to delivering excellent client service.

This is bolstered by comprehensive trainee and intern programmes, which continue to provide young lawyers with the experience and mentorship needed to excel. Indeed, September saw six new trainees start with Arthur Cox Northern Ireland, while the previous year’s cohort of graduate trainees took up permanent solicitor roles, along with three new junior solicitors joining the firm.

“Our success is built on the strength of our people and the way we work together,” Lynsey explained.

“Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do, from advising clients to mentoring the next generation of legal professionals.

“A hugely rewarding aspect of my role is seeing our people take ownership of tasks and drive innovation across the firm, and it is vital that they feel supported to do that.

“We are passionate about developing future legal talent. Our trainee programmes are designed to give young lawyers meaningful exposure to high-quality legal work, ensuring they are well-equipped for successful legal careers.

“Having benefited from positive mentorship myself, it is a privilege for me to be able to provide that same guidance. Encouraging and nurturing talent within the firm is a responsibility I embrace.

“It is fantastic for these young solicitors to look at our senior team and, not only learn from them, but see that there is a pathway at Arthur Cox to a successful and rewarding legal career.”

Arthur Cox has always been cognisant of the important role it can play in supporting the Northern Ireland economy and community, and that is a responsibility that Lynsey takes extremely seriously.

Partnerships with business organisations such as the Belfast Chamber and Business in the Community, where Lynsey holds board positions, reflects the firm’s commitment to social value for the benefit or our local economy, environment and communities. Internationally, the Arthur Cox Zambia Project helps to raise standards of living in some of the most rural regions of Zambia.

Since 2008, over 200 of the firm’s trainees have travelled to Zambia as volunteers and raised over £600,000 to fund community-led initiatives aimed at developing sustainable health, education, agricultural infrastructure and water security in the country.

With a year of achievements and sustainable growth during her first year as Managing Partner, Lynsey is excited about the future success and evolution of Arthur Cox Northern Ireland.

“I am extremely proud of what we have achieved together as a firm. Looking ahead, we will continue to grow, innovate, and build on our successes to ensure we remain at the forefront of the legal profession in Northern Ireland.”