Norton Rose set to vote for new chief executive

Despite rumours that there were a number of partners interested in standing for the position, the final list of candidates comprises just three. Partners must vote between international business partner Peter Martyr, head of litigation Peter Rees and head of global projects Jeff Barratt.
Martyr is tipped as the favourite, although it is expected to be a close call, with all three standing a reasonable chance.
Birkby will step down at the end of the year when the successful candidate will take over in the new role.
The changeover coincides with an overhaul in the management structure designed to speed up the decision-making process and step up the pace of global expansion.
Senior partner David Lewis is expected to step down in March 2003, when he will be replaced by a chairman.
The CEO and chairman will report to the management board, which will retain a representative from each of the firm's core practice groups and will include a dedicated international representative.