Leading Irish legal firm CKT grows solicitor team by 28% and strengthens leadership to meet rising demand across core legal sectors
Comyn Kelleher Tobin announces key partner promotions and COO Appointment in addition to Dublin and Cork office expansions
Comyn Kelleher Tobin (CKT), one of Ireland’s fastest-growing law firms, has announced a series of strategic appointments and promotions as part of its ongoing expansion across Cork and Dublin.
Over the past two years, the firm has grown its solicitor team by 28%, made five new partner appointments, and doubled the capacity of its Cork office to meet rising client demand across litigation, health and social care, employment, infrastructure, property, and advisory law.
The firm has said these latest appointments, including the appointment of Patricia Finn as Chief Operating Officer, reflect CKT’s commitment to operational excellence, leadership strength, and the development of Ireland’s next generation of legal talent.
“CKT’s consistent growth is a reflection of our high standards, the strength of our team, and sustained demand across our core practice areas,” said Patrice O’Keeffe, Managing Partner of CKT.
“Our new appointments not only strengthen our expertise in key sectors but also position the firm to continue supporting clients across Ireland and internationally. At CKT, our people are our most important asset, and we remain committed to developing the next generation of legal professionals,” Ms O’Keeffe added.
Key appointments to strengthen core practices
CKT Legal has promoted Barry Kelleher to Partner in the firm’s Litigation and Healthcare Regulatory teams. Barry, who joined CKT as a trainee in 2013, advises on healthcare litigation and regulatory matters. He has extensive experience advising public sector clients on statutory obligations and statutory interpretation, public, administrative, constitutional and EU law. Known for simplifying complex legal matters for our clients, he is a valuable member of the CKT team.
Conor White has also been appointed Partner in the firm’s Employment team, providing strategic guidance on employment law, data protection and regulatory matters within the health and social care sectors. He regularly represents public and private sector clients, including multinational employers, before the Workplace Relations Commission, the Labour Court, and the Civil Courts.
Patricia Finn joined CKT as Chief Operating Officer (COO) last month. Patricia brings over 20 years of leadership experience, previously serving as Group Director Legal, Privacy and Treasury at Org Group, a global professional services business. She will oversee the firm’s day-to-day operations, drive operational excellence, and support strategic growth initiatives across all practice areas.
Investing in talent and the local legal ecosystem
CKT Legal continues to invest in the development of Ireland’s next generation of lawyers. This year saw the firm’s largest ever intern intake, bringing the total number of trainees to 12.
The firm maintains strong relationships with University College Cork (UCC), University of Galway, and Dublin City University (DCU), offering placement opportunities, scholarships, and sponsorships for student events such as UCC’s bi-annual Women in Law Forum.
One-third of CKT’s partners began their careers at the firm as trainees, including the firm’s Managing Partner, Patrice O’Keeffe, highlighting a long-standing commitment to nurturing talent from within.
Looking ahead
The firm says it has plans to enhance its international capabilities through membership of Globalaw, one of the world’s top 10 legal networks, ensuring clients receive trusted legal support across multiple jurisdictions.
“I am delighted to share the news that Barry Kelleher and Conor White have been appointed as Partners — a well-earned recognition of their commitment, expertise, and the valuable skills they bring to CKT. Both have been instrumental in driving our firm’s growth and shaping its future direction, and I look forward to continuing our work together in their new roles.”
“With these appointments, Comyn Kelleher Tobin reinforces its national footprint, strengthens its core practice areas within the private and public sector, and underscores its commitment to excellence and innovation.,” Ms O’Keeffe concluded.
