Freshfields names new global tax head

Hargreaves’ appointment, which will take effect from January, comes after previous tax chief Stephan Eilers was made executive partner in a new three-man management team at the magic circle firm.

Coporate partner Will Lawes was elected senior partner while current chief executive Ted Burke, who Lawes defeated in the full partner vote, will become managing partner when the trio take up their roles in the New Year.

Current joint senior partner Guy Morton said: “Colin’s an outstanding candidate for this role thanks to an impressive track record, legal expertise that is second to none and strong management experience.

“He’s ideally placed to help our tax practice continue and enhance the high levels of performance that it’s consistently achieved in recent years.”

Hargreaves added: “Tax rules and revenue authorities around the world are posing some extremely complex challenges for international businesses and the transactions they wish to do.  

“We’ll continue to support our clients and colleagues through the group’s vast expertise and experience to deliver innovative work of the highest quality, in line with the group’s reputation as leaders in the tax market.”