He replaces Tony Crawford who announced in May he would officially retire from the position in early 2010 after 10 years in the role (see story).

Holland, no stranger to DLP Phillips Fox, is moving across from its alliance firm DLA Piper, where he is currently the regional head of finance for the Middle East and managing partner of the Dubai office. He is also a former partner of Mallesons Stephen Jaques.

Accepting his appointment, Holland emphasised the firm's intention to build its presence in the Asia-Pacific region. "I know DLA Phillips Fox well, and see them as a strong player with great potential in the Asia-Pacific region. Tony Crawford is leaving the firm in great shape to take advantage of the many opportunities that I believe will arise as economic conditions improve in Australia and the region," he said.

DLA Phillip Fox chairman Martin Wiseman added that the appointment also highlights the firm's plans to strengthen its corporate, finance and project finance practice areas.

Welcoming Holland's appointment, Wiseman said: "[Holland] brings to the role leading law firm expertise, strong client and market experience, a close relationship with our alliance firm DLA Piper and respected leadership and management skills to lead our firm in its next stage of growth and evolution."

- Zoe Lyon