Camerons switches to merit-based structure

The firm will bring in a three-tier salary system for associates, with each tier having an equivalent pay scale. Lawyers are expected to spend around two years on the lower tiers before becoming senior associates.

Managing partner Duncan Weston said: “Defining associate career levels according to competencies is an important step in building a culture that focuses on high performance as opposed to hours billed.”

The new model will come into effect next year, with the range for each scale yet to be determined. Camerons’ bonus system will also be reviewed next year, with any changes slated for 2012.

Allen & Overy, Ashurst, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer and Norton Rose are among the other firms to have moved to merit-based systems in recent years.