A Dallas-based corporate partner with more than 30 years’ experience, Mr Stewart will focus on fostering the global practice’s cross-border collaboration and client relationships.

The global chair position is an ambassadorial leadership role with a one-year term. Mr Stewart succeeds Johannesburg-based employment partner Sbu Gule, whose term ended on 30 April. Mr Gule will remain chair of NRF in South Africa and vice-chair globally.

Peter Martyr, NRF’s global chief executive, said the appointment “demonstrates the importance of the US to the development of our global business”.

“Ken’s knowledge and extensive experience of working within the US markets and beyond will be invaluable as we look to grow our practice across the continent.”