Simmons & Simmons’ former head of information ­communication and technology (ICT) has left the firm to join Dutch food trader Nidera as general counsel.

Rotterdam-based Job Rietkerk was global head of ICT until he was replaced by London partner Tom Wheadon in August last year.

Rietkerk was, along with Hong Kong-based corporate partner Damon le Maitre George, the only international practice group (IPG) head based outside London. All of the IPG heads are now based in the City.

Rietkerk’s departure comes after Simmons announced the closure of its Rotterdam office in January. All of the firm’s Dutch lawyers will now be based in Amsterdam.