The announcement comes in the wake of the Swinford-based firm recently naming Samantha Geraghty as its new managing partner.

Ms Cadden’s appointment marks her return to legal practice after a number of years working as a governance expert and an independent non-executive director.

She will act in matters of commercial and company law, including commercial property law, while specialising in charity law, advising on the “full range of corporate, regulatory, restructuring and compliance matters encountered by members of the charity, not-for-profit and philanthropic sectors”.

She is also an accredited mediator and will continue to build a mediation practice, with a particular interest in dispute and conflict resolution in the boardroom and professional spheres.

Commenting on her appointment, Ms Cadden said: “While my work in recent years as a governance consultant was hugely rewarding and afforded me the opportunity to work with wonderful boards of directors, it was time for a new challenge.

“I join P. O’Connor & Son at a time of exciting change and growth with the appointment of Samantha Geraghty as managing partner.

“I look forward to working with Samantha, Pat, William, Siobhán, Gina, Aileen and the entire Swinford and Kiltimagh team. I also look forward to linking in with my legal colleagues in Mayo and beyond!”