Pike steps down as Stephenson Harwood overhauls management

John Pike will step down next year as chief executive of Stephenson Harwood to be replaced by litigation partner Sunil Gadhia.

The move forms part of a review of the management of the firm that includes the promotion of its director of finance and administration, Clive Ruse, to chief operating officer.

Alongside Gadhia, Ruse will take part in the major decision making of the troubled firm. Effectively the duo will be doubling up to carry out Pike’s role.

Stephenson Harwood has seen a raft of partner and assistant departures since it merged with Sinclair Roche & Temperley in May 2002.

Pike was elected chief executive in 1996 for five years. In 2001 he was re-elected for a second term of three years.