Get Involved: Join the RFPG Council

The Royal Faculty of Procurators in Glasgow has a long and proud history of supporting the legal profession. At the heart of our organisation is our Council – a dedicated group of members who help guide our strategy, influence key decisions, and ensure that Faculty continues to provide valuable services to its members.

We are always looking for fresh perspectives and committed individuals to join the Council. Whether you are an experienced solicitor or early in your career, your input can make a real difference. Serving on the Council is a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the profession, develop your leadership skills, and expand your network.

Why Join the RFPG Council?

Becoming a Council member allows you to:

• Shape the future – Play a direct role in shaping the RFPG’s services, events, and strategic direction.

• Enhance your professional development – Gain valuable experience in leadership, governance, and decision-making.

• Expand your network – Work alongside like-minded professionals and build connections within Glasgow’s legal community.

• Give back to the profession – Support the legal community and help ensure that RFPG continues to be a valuable resource for its members.

What’s Involved?

Council members meet regularly to discuss and oversee the Faculty’s operations, events, and initiatives. The time commitment is manageable, and meetings are structured to ensure meaningful contributions from all members. Your level of involvement can be tailored to fit your professional commitments.

Hear from our current Council members –

Testimonial from current Council member John Bett

Q&A Interview with current Dean and Council member Stephen Vallance

How to Get Involved

If you’re interested in joining the Council or want to learn more about what’s involved, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at library@rfpg.org to express your interest.

Your voice matters – help shape the future of your Faculty!

Testimonial from current Council member John Bett

“Serving on Council has allowed me to develop strong relationships with a wider network of professional colleagues, while contributing to the positive work of the Faculty. It has broadened my understanding of the challenges facing our profession and enabled me to play a part in responding to those challenges.”

Q&A Interview with current Dean and Council member Stephen Vallance

About Your Role and Experience

Can you tell us a bit about your background and your role in the legal profession?

I’ve run and exited from my own legal firm but more recently I’ve been working with Harper Macleod and been involved with the HM Connect network dealing with legal firms across the west of Scotland. My role now is very much in business development rather than the more traditional black letter areas of law.

When did you join the Council of the Royal Faculty and what inspired you to volunteer?

I first joined Council around 2017. I saw it as a great opportunity to network, give something back to the profession as well as giving me access to possibly the best coffee place and hideaway in the city.

What are your main responsibilities as part of the Council?

During my time on Council I’ve served in most positions and various of our committees but I am currently Dean. It’s a role I have enjoyed immensely and has allowed me opportunities to meet with people in all aspects of the profession as well as attend various functions and ceremonies.

The Benefits of Serving on Council

What do you enjoy most about being on the Council?

Being able to give something back and the sense of community that exists within the RFPG.

Have you gained any skills or experiences from serving on the Council that have been valuable in your legal career or advanced you professional development?

It’s been a fabulous journey even at my stage in my career to witness various colleagues over the years lead the faculty and our various committees and I am the better and the wiser for it. For younger practitioners I cannot emphasis enough what a great experience it is in learning to deal with committees and the various other functions that the RFPG is central to.

Can you share a particular highlight or achievement from your time on the Council?

As Dean I sit on various committees externally. Learning to deal with some of the more challenging members on these committees has been both a challenge and a thrill.

Impact and Contribution

What role does the Faculty play in supporting the legal profession in Glasgow and beyond?

As with all great institutions the Faculty’s influence is wide but seldom noticed. Whether it is in our charity work, legal education or as a voice for our members in some of the wider issues affecting our profession the RFPG plays a crucial role.

How does the Council help shape the direction of the Faculty and its initiatives?

As a council member you have a real say in the matters affecting the RFPG and its direction.

What positive changes or projects have you been involved in as a Council member?

There have been many but my main pleasure has been to see the increase in social activity within the building whether through our quiz, creativity events or our regular CPD programme.

Encouraging Others to Get Involved

Why should Faculty members consider joining the Council?

Simple, it is your Faculty and a great place to socialise, network and give back.

What misconceptions, if any, do people have about serving on the Council?

Possibly a fear that there is a lot of work involved. Council meetings tend to be the main commitment and these are friendly, welcoming and often a lot of fun!

How much time and commitment does it take to be an active Council member?

Less than an hour or two a month but likewise, as much as you’d like to give.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about getting involved with the Faculty’s Council?

Do it!