Linklaters partner retires after unsuccessful management bid

Barnes, who has been with the firm since he joined as a trainee in the mid-1970s, was one of five partners who stood for senior partner earlier this year.

He became a partner in 1985 and was based in the Hong Kong office between then and 1991, when he returned to London.

Barnes held the role of global head of corporate between 2005 and 2010, when he was replaced by Jeremy Parr.

He pulled out of the race for the senior partner position in March (10 March 2011). The election was ultimately won by global banking chief Robert Elliott (3 May 2011).

A spokesperson for the magic circle firm said: “We’re very grateful for David’s significant contribution to the firm and wish him all the best for the future.”