Mr Smith, who will lead the development of the firm’s real estate practice in the north-east of Scotland, joined Shepherd and Wedderburn on 1 August, having been a partner in Burness Paull’s commercial real estate team since 2012.

He has a broad client base operating across sectors including hospitality and leisure, oil and gas services, retail, development and agriculture/rural business, and is individually ranked by Chambers and Partners.

Andrew Blain, managing partner at Shepherd and Wedderburn, said: “I am pleased to announce that Peter will join the firm to lead and further the development of our real estate practice in north-east Scotland. I am confident that with his local insight and well-established network in the region, Peter will play a key role in helping us to achieve our growth ambitions.”

Mr Smith said: “I am delighted to be joining Shepherd and Wedderburn. The firm recognises that the north-east is a great place to work and do business, and is committed to growing its practice in the region. Shepherd and Wedderburn has a clear strategy for sustainable growth and it is exciting to become part of it.”