Dickinson and Slater knock out rivals in Simmons senior partner race

Simmons & Simmons’ senior partner election has advanced to a second round of voting after a line finish for two candidates vying for the top job.

As predicted by The Lawyer (March 13), Italy managing partner Richard Slater and former managing partner David Dickinson are the front runners to replace Janet Gaymer in the role. Senior litigator Philip Vaughan and Rotterdam partner Ralph Kroener were knocked out in the first round.

It is understood Slater is the narrow favourite for the role, but the firm’s constitution requires a candidate to win the poll by a clear majority to be appointed to the position.

Simmons partners have been asked to vote between Slater and Dickinson before April 6.

The election follows Gaymer’s decision last year to accept a new post as Commissioner for Public Appointments.