Denton Wilde Sapte has become the latest firm to introduce the managing associate role as part of its alternative career path structure.

The position will be offered to senior associates as an alternative to partnership.

In a statement issued by the firm, Dentons said the role will incorporate the management and leadership responsibilities of partnership without the higher business and practice development demands.

Dentons chief exectuive, Howard Morris, commented: “The new structure is an innovative way for staff to advance along the career ladder as quickly as they feel able. They can then choose between the partnership, or taking a new and equally and responsible position.”

Earlier this year (28 September) The Lawyer reported on Addleshaw Goddard announcing its new managing associate position which is considered to be a stepping stone position on route to partnership at the firm.

A total of 134 associates have been promoted to the new role across the firm’s offices in London, Leeds and Manchester.