about mmws
experience, judgement and a personal approach
Independent employment law consultancy built around clear advice, practical solutions and more than four decades of experience.
the people behind mmws
A small consultancy by design, combining specialist employment law experience with personal, considered support.
client support
Amanda Mackay BSc
Amanda provides client support at mmws, helping ensure that enquiries, communication and the practical side of working with the consultancy are handled personally, efficiently and with care.
consultant · Member of the Society of Writers of HM Signet
Malcolm Mackay WS
Malcolm has spent more than four decades working in employment law, advising on workplace disputes, discrimination, TUPE, contractual issues and complex litigation.
That experience now sits at the heart of how mmws works. Malcolm oversees each matter personally, working with trusted specialists where appropriate and applying the judgement and perspective developed over a lifetime in employment law to the final advice.
The significance of that experience has been recognised more than once. Malcolm received WeDO Scotland's Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017 and, in 2026, a further Lifetime Achievement Award at the Scottish Legal Awards. Together, those honours reflect a career recognised across both business and the legal profession.
recognised by the profession
a reputation built over decades
“The 2001 merger of this corporate heavyweight (Maclay Murray and Spens) with employment specialists Mackay Simon combined longstanding employment expertise with a large commercial client base, resulting in a powerful market presence. Despite the recent retirement of leading Shona Simon, the firm holds on to its pole position. Many ascribe the team’s pre-eminent position to the knowledge and expertise of department head Malcolm Mackay. A ‘man of vision’ widely considered to be one of the few dedicated employment practitioners in the region. He was particularly commended by competitors for his work in the European market and skill in TUPE matters.”
Legal 500 / Chambers Guide to the Legal Profession
Legal 500 / Chambers Guide to the Legal Profession
“Mackay Simon, a young practice headed by the dynamic Malcolm Mackay who is widely recognised as a leading light on transfer of undertakings issues; ‘God of employment law in Scotland. He makes no song and dance about it, but his feel for a case is extremely good.’”
Legal 500 / Chambers Guide to the Legal Profession
“Mackay Simon, the employment division of Maclay Murray and Spens, retains its name as Scotland’s premier niche employment practice. At the head is Malcolm Mackay who has a broad guru-like vision of employment issues.”
ready to talk?
a conversation is often the best place to start
Whether you are dealing with a workplace issue, need a second opinion or simply want to understand your options, Malcolm is happy to have an initial conversation.
arrange a consultation