Mr Donnelly rejoins the firm having spent five years as head of information governance and data protection officer at Northern Ireland’s Education Authority.

He gained expertise in data protection and AI in this role, adding to his existing commercial property expertise north and south of the border and in England.

Managing partner Philip Gilliland said: “Our clients already know Barry’s commitment to excellence and customer service from his ten years’ previous experience with the firm.

“In the last six years he has developed top-class expertise in an area of growing relevance for our business clients, not to mention real leadership experience.

“I am delighted to welcome him back.”

Caldwell & Robinson is an Ireland-wide legal practice with offices in Derry, Belfast and Dublin.