The Society of Licensed Conveyancers Marks Board Changes with Retirement of Former Chairperson and Appointment of New Board Member

8^th July 2026

The Society of Licensed Conveyancers (SLC) has announced the retirement of former Chairperson and long-standing Board member Valerie Holmes, while welcoming Mark Willey as the newest member of its Board.

Valerie retires after many years of dedicated service to the Society, during which she helped steer the organisation through a period of significant change for the conveyancing profession. As both a Board member and former Chairperson, she played an important role in shaping the Society's strategic direction, strengthening its governance and ensuring it continued to provide a strong voice for licensed conveyancers and probate practitioners.

SLC Chairperson Simon Law paid tribute to Valerie Holme's contribution:

"Valerie's contribution to the Society over many years has been exceptional. Her leadership, professionalism and depth of experience have helped shape the Society and strengthen its role within the conveyancing profession. She has earned the respect of colleagues, members and the wider legal community through her commitment and thoughtful approach. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Valerie for her dedication and wish her a long, happy and well-deserved retirement."

The Society has also appointed Mark Willey to the Board, further strengthening its leadership as it continues to support licensed conveyancers and probate practioners and respond to the opportunities and challenges facing the profession.

Welcoming the appointment, Simon Law said:

"We are very pleased to welcome Mark Willey to the Board. He brings valuable experience and fresh perspectives, and I am confident they will make a significant contribution especially as a probate practioner as we continue to support our members, uphold high professional standards and ensure the Society remains a strong and influential voice for the profession."

Mark Willey said:

“I’m honoured to have been appointed to the Board of the Society of Licensed Conveyancers. My Father, Terence Willey, has been very inspirational to me as he was appointed to the first shadow Council of Licensed Conveyancers in 1987 by the former Lord Chancellor Lord MacKay. It is a privilege to follow that connection with the profession, and I hope to play my part in helping to shape its future, raise standards and support both practitioners and the clients we serve.”

Speaking about her retirement, Valerie Holmes said:

“It has been a privilege to serve the Society and work alongside so many industry colleagues. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, however it’s now time for me to enjoy the next chapter in my life.”

Valerie's retirement marks the end of an important chapter for the Society, while Mark Willey’s appointment reinforces its ongoing commitment to strong governance and effective representation for licensed conveyancers and probate practitioners across England and Wales.