Manchester boss to take over as national head of law firm

The North West head of DLA Piper has been appointed the UK managing partner of the law firm.

Liam Cowell, who joined the law firm in 1994 and is currently the managing partner for the North West, has been pointed head of the UK operation.

He has been advising on major infrastructure projects for almost 20 years.

Mr Cowell specialises in advising procuring authorities, sponsors, funders and the key supply chain members on PPP and project finance transactions across a broad range of sectors.

His work covers transport, social infrastructure, waste management and treatment projects and urban regeneration.

Mr Cowell will take over as UK managing partner from Sandra Wallace who is stepping down after three years in the role.

She will become joint managing director for the UK and Europe.

Mr Cowell said: “I am absolutely delighted to be appointed to the role of UK managing partner and I would like to thank Sandra for her substantial contribution to our UK business and the firm as a whole.

“The firm has been on a fantastic journey over the last few years and I look forward to extending our strong track record in the UK as we embark on the next stage in the firm’s evolution.”

Mrs Wallace added: “Over the course of his long career at DLA Piper, Liam has garnered the respect of his colleagues, clients and peers and possesses the leadership attributes, client skills and focus on growth and profitability to steer our UK business towards our goal of being the leading global business law firm.

“This is a pivotal time in the legal industry and our economy as a whole, and I am confident that Liam’s collaborative approach, alongside his drive and bold ambition for the firm will take our UK practice from strength to strength.”