The Association of Women in Property (WiP) has announced its new central Scotland branch chairman for 2017/18.

Emma Carmichael from Shepherd and Wedderburn LLP is to take on the role from March 1 for one year.

A commercial property solicitor based at Shepherd and Wedderburn’s Edinburgh office, Emma has been a member of WiP for four years.

Dual qualified in Scotland and England and Wales, Emma advises real estate clients both north and south of the Border on a range of matters including landlord and tenant, property financing, and energy work. She is also a member of the New York State Bar Association.

“2017 is a milestone year for WiP as it marks thirty years since the organisation was formed, originally as a networking group for women working in the property and construction sector”, she said. “Since then, we have held over 8,000 events across the UK promoting diversity and professional development at every level.

“In the last ten years, over 600 members have undertaken our mentoring programme and over 700 undergraduates have participated in WiP’s National Student Awards, part of our Education programme to encourage girls and young women to pursue a career in the industry. We run mid-career workshops and a boardroom series for those aspiring to top roles - WiP is very much about realising one’s potential and helping others to do the same.”

Stephen Gibb, chief executive of Shepherd and Wedderburn, added: “Emma has an excellent reputation in her field. Her professionalism and commitment to our clients make her an excellent choice for the role.”

In the Central Scotland area, recent WiP events include networking lunches, personal development seminars, a biomass site visit and a tour of the Glasgow Women’s Library. The majority of events are open to members and non-members, both men and women.