Simmons partner quits for Gallaher

City law firm Simmons & Simmons is losing a litigation partner to tobacco manufacturer Gallaher Group.

Tom Keevil, who has acted for Gallaher for several years in cases brought against the company, will join as senior legal adviser at the end of the year.

He says that after 16 years at Simmons he welcomes the opportunity to move in-house and take on a more managerial role.

"I see it as a career change," says Keevil. "As an external adviser I will provide advice and as a manager I will be taking strategic decisions."

Simmons' senior partner Bill Knight says: "After 16 years with the firm, Tom has decided that he wants a change of direction in his career.

"He has been an excellent partner and while we are sorry to see him go, we wish him every success for the future. He will still work with Simmons & Simmons in his new role."