Law firm announces new management team

Law firm Freeths has unveiled a new management team following the retirement of Peter Smith, chief executive, after 20 years in the role.

The new structure will see Karl Jansen, current national head of corporate, appointed as national managing partner. Philippa Dempster, managing partner of the London office, will be appointed senior partner and Julian Middleton, currently national head of employment, will become deputy chairman.

Colin Flanagan, chairman of the firm, said: “This is another significant step in our growth as a top 50 UK law firm. The firm continues to go from strength or strength – in large part driven by the clarity of our vision, consistency of approach and the quality of our people. Building a new management team from within our own ranks is a clear demonstration of the strength of the firm and will ensure a smooth transition and strong leadership for the firm for the next stage of our growth”.

Karl Jansen said: “We are all immensely proud to be part of the new management team. As a group, we have long-standing, deep ties built over working together for nearly 30 years. We believe that our culture is a crucial ingredient in our success, and this shared view about what makes us different will be invaluable in our ongoing dynamic development, as we continue to attract and develop the best talent and put our clients at the centre of everything we do.”