Harborough solicitor and chartered builder is delighted to be taking on an important new regional role

A leading Market Harborough solicitor – and chartered builder - is “delighted” to be taking on an important new regional role.

Michael Gerard, who specialises in construction and engineering law, has been appointed vice chair of the East Midlands branch of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb).

The founder of Michael Gerard & Co, he took up the prestigious 12-month position in May.

As part of the role he will support the branch chairperson and stand in for him when he is unavailable.

“I’m delighted to be taking on this new role with the East Midlands branch of CIArb,” said Michael.

“The Institute does such important work in offering specialised training, CPD and ongoing support to its members.

“With the difficulties that the construction industry is facing getting back on its feet after lockdown, and continuing challenges posed by Covid-19, the construction industry really has need of independent bodies like CIArb.”

The CIArb is a multi-national professional body for members working in the areas of dispute avoidance and dispute management.

With over 16,000 members globally, the East Midlands group is part of an international network offering support and training across a range of dispute areas.

Although many live events have been put on hold due to the coronavirus crisis, the Institute is still actively supporting its members.

Michael is also a panel-registered adjudicator with the Royal Institution of British Architects (RIBA).

Very unusually he is also qualified as a chartered builder and has been practising as a solicitor specialising in construction, engineering and contract law since 2013.

Before taking up the law, Michael was a quantity surveyor and an accredited expert with the Academy of Experts in the fields of quantum and delay.