Lyn Harris

Organised by Women in Business NI and sponsored by VANRATH, the annual event welcomed over 300 guests from across Northern Ireland’s thriving tech sector to the Europa Hotel for a gala evening to showcase the sector’s best-in-class and their continued positive impact on the local economy.

Ms Harris was recognised for her foresight in adopting technology early to give clients a competitive edge, her leadership in establishing a globalised digital business practice and the way in which she helps drive colleagues’ careers.

The judges cited her direction of the firm’s ‘New Law’ services and her focus on growing its technology services beyond eDiscovery to include data analytics in support of both transactional and contentious matters.

The award also focuses on individuals who develop future business leaders, with the citation noting how she has also helped create diverse career paths for team members, creating legal technology roles in Belfast and growing Herbert Smith Freehills’ Belfast team by 300 per cent in seven years.

Lisa McLaughlin, managing partner of Herbert Smith Freehills’ Belfast office, said: “Lyn’s innovative approach and commitment to excellence have profoundly impacted the firm and its clients.

“Her ability to combine legal technology and legal services cohesively has resulted in a powerful service offering that addresses complex client needs, enhancing client delivery and positioning the firm as a leader in handling multifaceted legal matters.”

Ms Harris added: “It may have been me on the stage but an award like this is really about how our team delivers as cohesive and innovative group.

“Adopting and adapting to new technology is critical to our success as a digital practice and I am delighted that the success of our legal and technology teams has been recognised through this fantastic award.”