Selected from a strong field of 13 nominees, this year’s winners of the annual competition for early career in-house talent are:

• First- or second-year trainee: Arün Smith, Dumfries and Galloway Council
• Solicitor with up to five years’ PQE: Elise Woodbridge, NatWest Bank plc

Patricia Thom, president of the Law Society of Scotland, congratulated all nominees as she announced the winners at the In-house Annual Conference yesterday.

In addition to the winners, Alison Howells from the City of Edinburgh Council was named highly commended in the newly qualified category for her work helping families and vulnerable children.

Patricia Thom said: “Congratulations Arün, Elise and Alison. It is clear that you are assets to your teams and the wider legal profession. You should both be very proud of what you’ve achieved in such a short space of time.

“Arün, Elise, the judging panel were impressed with your work ethic and dedication to your organisations so early in your careers, along with how you are both supporting those from underrepresented groups.

“It’s a pleasure to be able to celebrate our talented winners and nominees alongside so many of their in-house colleagues. The depth of new talent shows the strength of Scotland’s in-house sector, and the huge contribution it makes.”

Mr Smith said: “I am immensely grateful to my colleagues, to my supervising solicitors and managers, and to the council’s leadership for supporting me and enabling me to win this year’s award in the trainee category.

“As a queer person of colour, it is especially rewarding to know that there is an undoubted place for me in our profession. I look forward to seeing our profession continue its work in being welcoming and reflective of the diversity of our communities.”

Ms Woodbridge said: “I am incredibly touched to have been nominated for the In-House Rising Star Award 2026, and even more delighted to have won.

“I feel truly fortunate to have trained and developed my career within such an amazing in-house legal team at NatWest Group. This award is as much a reflection of my manager, team, and colleagues who consistently coach, support, and inspire me to raise the bar.”