Proskauer Rose is weighing a plan to split its London leadership into two separate roles as part of a broader succession planning effort, according to people familiar with the matter. The move would replace the current single managing partner position held by James Connor, who has led the US law firm's London office for about a decade.
Potential Structure Change
The firm is considering appointing two co-heads to oversee its London operations, a structure that would divide responsibilities between practice management and client relationships. This would mark a departure from the current setup, where Connor has served as the sole leader of the office, which houses more than 100 lawyers.
Sources said the discussion is at an early stage, and no final decision has been made. The firm is exploring options to ensure a smooth transition when Connor eventually steps down, though no timeline has been set for the change.
Succession Planning Underway
Proskauer's leadership has begun formal succession planning for the London office, a process that typically involves identifying internal candidates and assessing the firm's strategic needs. The potential split is seen as a way to allow different skill sets to be leveraged, with one leader focusing on the firm's key practice areas and another on business development.
The London office is a significant part of Proskauer's international network, contributing to its global revenue. The firm has been expanding its UK presence in recent years, particularly in areas such as private equity, financial services, and litigation.
No Official Comment
A spokesperson for Proskauer declined to comment on the succession plans. Connor, who has been with the firm for over 20 years, has not publicly indicated any immediate departure, but sources suggest the firm is preparing for a leadership transition in the medium term.
The outcome of the discussions will be closely watched in the legal industry, as Proskauer's approach to leadership succession could set a precedent for other US firms with major London operations.
