Reed Smith has appointed Gillian Ward as its new chief marketing and business development officer. 

Ward, who is based in Houston, brings nearly two decades of experience in senior leadership roles within law firms, most recently as BCLP’s global chief marketing officer, marking a significant addition to Reed Smith’s strategic team.

At Reed Smith she will oversee a global team of more than 100 professionals. Her responsibilities will include strengthening client relationships, creating market opportunities and elevating the firm’s brand, all of which are key priorities for the firm’s global managing partner, Casey Ryan. 

The firm said the role had been redefined to align with Reed Smith’s strategic focus on business development. Longstanding London-based chief marketing officer Sadie Baron left the firm in December. 

With more than 30 years of experience, Ward has held senior positions across the US, Canada and the UK, providing her with a global perspective. 

She spent four years at BCLP, leaving in October 2023, having joined from Baker Botts where she was CMO. 

Nick Bagiatis, Reed Smith’s chief operating officer, said: “Gillian is a key strategic hire for our firm as we focus on growing client relationships and expanding our presence in new and existing markets.

“As a proven leader and change agent in the legal industry, she is known for driving growth and building consensus across diverse organisations. We are thrilled to have Gillian on board, and we know she will make an immediate positive impact at Reed Smith.”

Ward said: “Joining at this pivotal time presents an exciting opportunity to contribute to the firm’s momentum by strengthening its global presence and reputation. In this role, I can enhance a strong brand and further develop the marketing department, solidifying the firm’s position as a market leader during digital and client-service innovation.”

Last month, the firm announced a significant office opening in Atlanta, expanding into the busy Georgia legal market for the first time. 

It also changed the leadership of its London office, with Bridget North taking over from Andrew Jenkinson as managing partner.

The firm’s Paris managing partner, Natasha Tardif, was honoured in December by the International Bar Association for supporting diversity.