Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has appointed Simon Marchant (pictured) as its new London head of corporate while Simon Priddis has been chosen to lead the City antitrust, competition and trade (ACT) practice.

Marchant succeeds Julian Long who was recently appointed London managing partner after his predecessor Mark Rawlinson stepped down from the role in December. Marchant previously co-headed Freshfields’ London M&A business. He previously led the firm’s Asia business.