Mr Kerr, who will work across the firm’s five offices, has extensive experience advising businesses, investors and entrepreneurs on corporate immigration and international workforce strategy.

He said: “Scottish businesses are competing internationally for people, skills and investment, and immigration policy has a direct impact on their ability to do that. If businesses in Scotland are to grow and compete, access to international talent must be part of that conversation.

“Anderson Strathern has clear ambitions for its immigration practice. I’m looking forward to working with Mark and the wider team, combining our decades of experience and developing the support we can offer to clients.”

Carole Tomlinson, chair at Anderson Strathern, said: “Jamie is exactly the kind of person we want to bring into the firm. He is highly regarded in his field, has a strong track record and shares our ambition for the practice.

“His appointment strengthens our capability in this area and gives us the opportunity to build further on the strong work already being led by Mark as demand for this specialist advice continues to grow.”

The firm will also welcome 10 new trainees this September, while also retaining all 10 of its current trainees as newly qualified solicitors, based across its Edinburgh and Glasgow offices.