Ian Machray
Managing Partner
Ian joined FSP in 2011 and plays a key role in shaping its strategic direction, culture and long‑term development. He works closely with the Senior Leadership Team to set firm‑wide priorities and with team leaders to ensure these are delivered consistently across the business.
During his time at FSP, Ian has held several senior positions, including Head of the Business Services Team and Head of People. As Head of Business Services, he oversaw the firm’s core “business as usual” areas – commercial contracts, disputes, employment, immigration and intellectual property – helping to create a more cohesive, joined‑up approach. His work as Head of People was central to defining and embedding the “Family FSP” ethos and introducing clear career frameworks to support progression and professional development.
Alongside his leadership role, Ian continues to practise as an employment lawyer, drawing on his experience to support colleagues and inform the firm’s people strategy. He is proud that the firm has held Investors in People accreditation (currently at Gold level) for over 25 years, reflecting its long‑standing commitment to its people.
"Ian showcases deep expertise and sharp problem-solving skills, and his commercial awareness and vision are top-tier, as he aligns his advice seamlessly with our business goals."
"I’m a great admirer of his approach - his guidance has been invaluable and has made a significant positive impact on my business over many years."
"Ian is outstanding. He is responsive and has a deep understanding of employment law."
"Ian has always been an immense support and is highly reliable."
"Ian has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, expertise and dedication in handling legal matters."
"Ian engages incredibly well, quickly grasping an issue's crux and providing relatable and considered responses and advice. "
“He's very accessible and really understands the culture of business.”
“Ian is a pleasure to work with and he always responds quickly.”
“We have every confidence in his guidance. He is comprehensive and honest in his responses and overall advice, which we appreciate immensely.”
"Ian's strength is his business-centred approach - he knows our business and tailors his advice accordingly."
"Ian Machray is practical, commercially oriented and responsive. He gives thorough advice in an easily understandable communication style."
"Ian Machray is practical, commercially oriented and responsive. He gives thorough advice in an easily understandable communication style. Ian's strength is his business-centred approach - he knows our business and tailors his advice accordingly."
"He is a very impressive employment lawyer and also easy to work with."
"Ian has a pragmatic, knowledgeable and supportive approach to any challenge thrown his way."
"He is very helpful and gives fast responses."
"Very knowledgeable."
"Ian Machray really stands out as someone who has great knowledge and experience in his field. He is able to explain matters in a straightforward and coherent way."
"Identifies the risks and evaluates the best course of action."
"Ian Machray always responds quickly, and is incredibly knowledgeable and approachable. He gives excellent advice."
"‘Ian Machray keeps a very level head, not only using his huge technical ability, but also advises with a human touch. He is very pragmatic and the solutions/assistance he has offered us when it comes to personnel matters has been second to none."