New managing partner named at litigation specialist

Stuart Dench has been appointed as the managing partner elect at Leeds-based law firm Stewarts.

He will succeed John Cahill on 1 August 2022 following a six-month transition period.

Dench is a senior partner at the firm and has been the head of marketing and business development for the last 20 years.

He is a member of the management team which has overseen rapid and sustained growth at the litigation law firm.

Dench’s appointment was made following a comprehensive process including the appointment of an internal transition committee, a detailed performance review and a vote of the partners. His appointment had the unanimous support of the firm’s equity partners.

Cahill said: “Stuart’s impact as a leader of partners has been demonstrated over many years.

“He has an unwavering commitment to the success of the firm, a deep knowledge of each of the practice areas and the vision and drive to take the firm forward and to reflect its values. We are fortunate to have such a candidate.”

Dench added: “John is the architect of Stewarts. When he became managing partner we had revenue of £3m and seven partners. This year revenue is expected to hit the £100m target set by John three years ago.

“I will begin my tenure as managing partner with a determination to build upon the platform and the legacy left by John.

“We have a wealth of talent in the firm and it is important we look forward and create an exciting new chapter in our history and continue to achieve successful outcomes for our clients.”

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