End of era as Walker Morris chief to step down
Peter Smart, executive chairman for the last nine years, helped the Leeds law firm become a leading national player and one of the country's most profitable legal practices.
Mr Smart said: "I have been enormously proud to have been involved in the management and development of Walker Morris over such a long time, but now is the time for the next generation of partners to take the firm to new heights."
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Hide AdWalker Morris said he has been a key figure in the firm's strategy of developing a national practice from a single site. Mr Smart, who reaches the firm's retirement age of 60 this year, will remain a partner in the corporate department until May 2011.
Andrew Turnbull, who is head of the pension group, has been elected non-executive chairman, while Ian Gilbert, a leading corporate lawyer, becomes managing partner.
Mr Gilbert said: "Peter has led the firm with great distinction, particularly over the last couple of challenging years and leaves his management role at a time when the firm is well placed to assist its clients to take advantage of the improving economy."