Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has appointed London partner Sarah Parkes as its next global head of dispute resolution.
Promoted to partner in 2008, Parkes has been London disputes head since February 2019. She notably spearheaded a department initiative to improve gender and racial diversity when building teams for its major disputes cases.
She was also previously co-chair of the firm’s associate engagement group.
She replaces Andy Hart in the position, who has helmed the global practice on a four-year term since 2019. He will return to his practice at the firm, a statement on Thursday said.
Parkes will take up the role from July 8, the statement added.
The firm has been building out its litigation platform, notably via the launch of its special claims unit in Germany to deal with mass ‘dieselgate’-style claims at the end of 2021.
On Wednesday, the firm further committed to this by opening presences in the German cities of Nuremberg, Mannheim and Hanover.
At the end of 2021, Freshfields also refreshed the management of its corporate disputes group in London, appointing Samantha Trevan to the top role.
Parkes said she’s “excited” for the role and looks “forward to working with a world class and diverse group of talented colleagues in driving the success of the practice”.
Hart added: “Sarah is an outstanding successor for this global role. I have been immensely grateful for the help and support of my colleagues, and I am sure that they will continue to provide this to Sarah over the next few years.”
