Eversheds has overhauled its litigation practice, creating the new post of head of international dispute management, which will be taken up by current litigation chief John Heaps.

The role, which Heaps will take up on 1 January, is the result of London and international work increasingly becoming more important in the firm’s strategic plans. Heaps, who has headed the UK litigation group for nine years, will be looking at strengthening Eversheds’ global offering and analysing where the firm can take international business opportunities. He will continue as litigation practice head for the firm’s London and South East offices.

Partner Ian Gray will be taking over, however, as the new practice group head for litigation.

On his new position, Heaps said: “I’m excited to be taking on new challenges that reflect the overall success of the firm’s growth internationally.”