CC senior partner suitors emerge as race to replace Popham begins

Candidates emerge to replace Popham and Cheyne at City duo

Clifford Chance (CC) has launched the process to replace senior partner Stuart Popham as his second and final term in the role draws to a close.

The magic circle law firm has kickstarted the search for Popham's replacement when he stands down at the end of the year, calling for potential candidates in an email to the CC partnership last week.

Popham, who has leveraged his business and political connections to boost the firm's profile during his tenure, is viewed as a hard act to follow after eight years in the role.

Longstanding Paris head Yves Wehrli has emerged as an early favourite, with support both in London and internationally. Other possible candidates cited include German corporate head Andreas Dietzel as well as City-based global finance head Mark Campbell and finance partner Malcolm Sweeting. So far only London tax partner Jonathan Elman has officially expressed his intention to stand for the position.

One CC partner said: "Stuart Popham has done a marvellous job and it is not at all clear who should replace him. Cosmetically, it would be good if the senior partner was based in an office other than London."

CC declined to comment on the process, but it is understood elections are likely to take place at the end of September with final nominations becoming clear after the summer.
The news comes as Linklaters also gears up for senior partner elections to replace incumbent David Cheyne.

Managing partner Simon Davies will kick off an informal consultation with the firm's executive committee in September, but partners are already linking a number of London partners to the role.

Former corporate head David Barnes and global banking head Robert Elliott have emerged as strong early contenders to replace Cheyne in September 2011. City corporate finance partners Matthew Middleditch and Richard Godden have also been cited as potentials for the position.

One Linklaters partner commented: "Barnes is a prime candidate for the role - not only is he backed by popular demand, he has also served a five-year term as corporate head."

Clifford Chance on the Legal Week Wiki