Birmingham Post sustainable industries columnist and head of the energy team at law firm Martineau Andrew Whitehead is taking over as senior partner at the firm next year.
Mr Whitehead will replace Martineau’s current senior partner Roger Blears who is stepping down with effect from January 1, 2010.
Mr Blears, who has been instrumental in developing the firm’s successful strategy to align itself with key industry sectors, said: “The decision to elect Andrew as the new senior partner was right for the firm and for me, and I wish Andrew every success in the future.”
Martineau’s current managing partner Bill Barker will stay on in the role he has had for the past six years.
Mr Whitehead has considerable experience within the energy and utilities sector with particular emphasis on climate change initiatives and environmental sustainability and leads Martineau’s involvement in the Legal Sector Alliance.
The LSA is working to spread awareness among law firms of their responsibilities in respect of climate change.
Mr Whitehead said he was excited by the challenge his new role presents.
“It is my role to articulate the vision of the firm,” he said.
“I have to understand the needs of our clients and ensure we reflect them in our future strategic developments. It is essential that our every action reflects our core values of integrity, innovation and inspiration.
“To deliver on our strategy, we must explore all possible routes for growth and accept that the legal profession must undergo change if it is to evolve and better reflect the clients it serves now and in the future.”
