His assumption of the role will follow the 10-year tenure of the firm’s incumbent and global co-chief executive, Simon Levine, who is stepping away from the role of managing partner so as to lead DLA Piper’s innovation and strategic transformation program in a new role as strategic innovation partner.

Mr Severs joined the global law firm as a partner in 2003 and has held numerous leadership roles in that time, including international group head of corporate and managing director for Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and Africa.

Over the next 10 months, Mr Levine will assist Mr Severs in preparing for the new role, the firm noted in a statement, while continuing to operate fully in his current capacity until the end of his term on 31 December 2024.

The news follows the firm’s naming of two new Australian partners in April, hiring of a new head of restructuring for APAC in May, hiring of a partner from Holding Redlich in June, promotion of 10 lawyers in July, addition of a partner from PwC in August, and appointment of a partner from NRF in October.

DLA Piper senior partner Jon Hayes said: “Under Simon Levine’s leadership, we have achieved many remarkable things: revenue and profit growth every year throughout his tenure; higher and stronger profiles across many practice groups, geographies, and sectors; recognition for our innovation and for our wider contribution and leadership as a responsible business.

“During this time, we have also matured into a firm that is cohesive, values-led, confident and acutely attuned to the needs of our clients, both now and for the future.

“Charles’ appointment will mark a new chapter in the evolution of the firm.

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“We have always embraced change and look forward with excitement and enthusiasm to what Charles will bring to this role and to the firm.”

Levine added: “Charles has been an integral part of my management team for the past decade, and it will be an honour to pass the baton of DLA Piper’s leadership over to him at the end of the year.

“Not only is Charles an outstanding lawyer, but his strength lies in his proven ability to lead and also to listen. I have every confidence that Charles is the right person to guide DLA Piper into a bright future.”

Severs noted: “This is an incredibly proud moment for me.

“I have spent the vast majority of my career at DLA Piper and care passionately about this great firm and the fantastic people that make us who we are.

“Simon will be a tough act to follow, and I’m delighted that we will continue to benefit from his vision for innovation. We certainly have an exciting future ahead.”