Stephen Allinson

Stephen Allinson is the Chairman of the Board at The Insolvency Service and a Visiting Lecturer at The University of Law’s Bristol and Exeter centres. He is also a consultant at Shoosmiths Solicitors and former partner at a large regional law firm. His career spans over 40 years, combining legal practice, academia, and governance in sports (Chairman/owner of Yeovil Town Ladies’ Football Club and FA management committee member for women’s football).

• Education: Bachelor of Law, Bristol University (1981); Law Society Finals, The College of Law (1982)
• Current Roles: Insolvency Service Board Chairman, Visiting Lecturer (teaching GDL, LPC, PSC courses), Shoosmiths Consultant

His research and teaching focus on practical applications of business law, corporate insolvency strategy, and legal education’s role in developing professional skills. He emphasizes the importance of real-world problem-solving and client engagement in legal training.

He views his Insolvency Service role as a highlight, leveraging legal expertise in shaping national policy on corporate governance and failure management, which impacts World Bank ratings. His contributions to legal education and sports governance reflect his belief in the law’s people-centric nature.