Herbert Smith Freehills confirmed today the appointment of Mark Rigotti as the firm's sole Chief Executive Officer, with effect from 1 May, 2017.
This appointment follows a recommendation by the firm's governance body, the Global Council, and the subsequent approval by partners of this recommendation. The appointment is for a term of three years.
Senior Partner, James Palmer commented:
"The move to a sole CEO confirms the strength and development of the firm following our merger in October 2012. It represents a natural progression in our development as we move from a focus on the integration phase to the implementation of our strategic goals.
"Sonya and Mark have been outstanding joint CEOs following their appointment in May 2014. Not only have they been a highly effective leadership team in driving our integration following the merger, they have also been the architects of the firm's strategy.
"Sonya's vision of our firm's potential and her commitment and dedication to its realisation have been hallmarks of her term. These qualities have been particularly in evidence over the past three years and her impact on our firm has been exceptional.
"Mark brings the breadth and depth of experience, support and capabilities needed to achieve our performance ambitions. He has the support of the Council and of partners. "
Notes to editors: Mark Rigotti
Prior to becoming the firm's Joint CEO in May 2014, Mark had been a member of the management team for some time having led a number of practice groups including Head of the Banking group and Head of the Corporate Practice. Additionally he undertook the role of managing our client portfolio as Managing Partner, Clients and Industries. Mark is a member of the firm's Council, co-chair of the Global Executive and Chairman of the Global Diversity and Inclusivity Group. He joined the firm in 1988 and became a partner in 1996. Mark has been based in the UK since 2013.
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