Maher hints at exit in wake of Mayer Brown revamp

London-based Maher told the firm's partnership today that he will be taking a short sabbatical to consider his options in the wake of a series of management changes at the Anglo-American firm.

Maher's position at Mayer Brown has been the subject of speculation since the firm confirmed earlier this month that it is to overhaul its management structure, with Herbert 'Bert' Krueger voted in as its new chairman, replacing James Holzhauer, and Maher's co vice-chairman Kenneth Geller chosen as firmwide managing partner.

The new structure left Maher without any management responsibilities as he failed to win a place on Mayer Brown's new six-member management committee or 12-member partnership board.

In his memo to partners, Maher said: "Following the recent governance and management changes at Mayer Brown, there has been considerable speculation within and outside the firm about my future plans. This is unfortunate and not how I would have wanted it, but I suppose inevitable in the modern day. I can say, at this stage, that those plans are still being formulated but it would be wrong of me not to make it clear that it is likely that it may include my leaving Mayer Brown. Should this happen, I will be very sad because I have spent 19 years here and made many many friends.

"In recent days I have been approached about several interesting opportunities. To give them careful consideration, which I am sure you will understand I must do, I have requested and been granted a short sabbatical leave from the firm. Whatever my ultimate decision may be, it will involve me alone.

"For the record, I have long been a strong advocate for governance change and fully endorse the new structure. Bert Krueger and the new management team are very capable and I am confident they will continue to run the firm successfully. I have enjoyed my time as vice-chairman of Mayer Brown, a particular highlight of which was designing and delivering the strategic combination with Johnson Stokes & Master in Asia."

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