Cox takes over as Herbert Smith real estate chief

Herbert Smith has appointed Ian Cox to the role of head of real estate.

Iain Rothnie, the incumbent, will stand down on 1 July after two and a half years in the post. Rothnie will now focus on developing the practice internationally and building up links with sovereign wealth funds.

Rothnie, who was previously executive partner at the firm, said: "I am very much looking forward to returning to full-time fee-earning after eight years in management roles. In Ian Cox we have exactly the right blend of experience, practice management and leadership skills to take the division forward."

Cox’s practice is focused on real estate investment and property finance, and counts Moorfield Group and Rockpoint as his clients.

Cox said: "Among our key priorities will now be to develop our international practice and to align our business more closely with specific sectors of the real estate market."