TLT’s Stephen McGowan appointed president of The BEN

Stephen McGowan, partner and head of TLT’s licensing team in Scotland, has been named president of the Benevolent Society of the Licensed Trade of Scotland (The BEN).

The BEN offers financial, social and emotional support to individuals connected to the drinks industry and raises funds at various events across Scotland for existing and new beneficiaries. It was established in Glasgow in 1864 and has grown considerably over the years.

Mr McGowan was appointed to the board of The BEN in 2012 and elected vice president in 2017. His presidency was announced at the charity’s annual general meeting yesterday. He was nominated for Lawyer of the Year at this year’s Scottish Legal Awards in recognition of his services to the licensed trade, including through The BEN.

Mr McGowan said: “Since I joined the board of The BEN a few years ago, I have seen first-hand the great work that it does for so many people across Scotland. It’s an honour to work with the people who help fundraise and go out and visit the people who benefit from those funds, and I am deeply honoured to now be able to serve the charity as its president.

“With my appointment, I am asking everyone in the licensed trade to reconnect with The BEN and to consider anyone they know or employ who might benefit from its services, particularly younger members of staff who may not know what The BEN can do to support them.”