Addleshaw Goddard has elected head of corporate finance Charles Penney as its new senior partner.
Penney beat head of international Andrew Carpenter to the role in a contested election.
He will replace Monica Burch, who is stepping down after serving two three-year terms in the role, on 1 May. Burch is set to take a short sabbatical over the summer before returning to the firm on a part-time basis, focusing particularly on client and partner development.
Penney moved to Addleshaws in 2005 after leaving legacy firm Lovells. During his time at Lovells he worked as the firm’s resident managing partner for New York and spent a two-year secondment as secretary of the UK Takeover Panel.
He will combine his existing client responsibilities with his new leadership responsibilities and will focus on growth across Addleshaws’ UK and international markets.
Penney will work alongside John Joyce, who was elected as Addleshaws’ managing partner two years ago, also for a three-year term.
In a statement Penney thanked Burch for her “inclusive leadership” and said he would focus on the firm’s growth, brand and culture.
Joyce said he looked forward to working with Penney.
“A contested election creates a healthy environment in which to engage with partners and Andrew has our respect and thanks for his part in that process,” Joyce added.
