Manchester law firm re-elects managing partner for fifth term

International law firm DWF has appointed its managing partner for a fifth consecutive term.

Andrew Leaitherland, who was uncontested in his bid for the position, will begin the new term in February 2018.

Under Andrew’s leadership as both chief executive and managing partner, Manchester-headquartered DWF has achieved growth in terms of geographical footprint and international client base.

The company has opened offices across Europe, North America, Australia, Dubai and Singapore over the last three years, bringing its office count to 25 and its headcount to more than 2,700.

Chairman Sir Nigel Knowles said: “DWF has a very clear strategy, looking at not just globalising its existing service lines across real estate, insurance and financial services sectors, but also responding to client need by introducing and developing a broader range of services under one roof.

“It is undoubtedly ambitious, but I have no doubt that if anyone can bring it to life, it’s Andrew. He has brought out the best of DWF’s people, and successfully created an environment that is innovative, dynamic and most importantly, client-centric.”

He added: “There are real opportunities ahead and Andrew has the full support and confidence of the leadership team as we embrace those opportunities together.”

Commenting on his reappointment, Andrew said: “It has been a great privilege to lead DWF all these years, and I’m approaching the next three years with the same sense of responsibility and appreciation for the task at hand, as well as a huge amount of gratitude to our people.

“The successes we’ve had – and I’m pleased that there have been many to speak of – would not have been possible without the skilled, dedicated people we have on board.”

He continued: “Three years ago, I said my role was one of an enabler, focusing on helping our people deliver service excellence for clients, and that remains equally true today.

“This year we have laid the foundations for continued growth and innovation, and I am confident we have a platform in place that will allow us to achieve our purpose of transforming legal services through our people for our clients.”

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