Matthew's term will formally begin 1 May 2014, running for a period of four years. Matthew will spend the interim period working closely with the firm's current Managing Partner, David Childs to ensure a seamless transition.
Matthew has been a partner at Clifford Chance since 1991. He has been the global head of the Firm's Corporate Practice since 2008 and previously led the London office's Corporate Finance and M&A group. Alongside Global Finance Practice Leader, Mark Campbell, Matthew has been instrumental in the Firm's successful drive to broaden its major client base through increased focus on key sectors. Matthew is also a relationship partner for a number of Clifford Chance's major global clients.
David Childs commented, "I feel very proud and honoured to have had the opportunity to serve as the Managing Partner of Clifford Chance. I am confident that in passing the baton on to Matthew I leave the Firm in very good hands. I know that Matthew is as ambitious for the Firm as I have been, and I'm sure Clifford Chance will go from strength to strength under his leadership."
Matthew Layton commented, "Clifford Chance enjoys an enviable position, entrusted with the best and most challenging work for many of the world's most successful and forward-looking organisations. The evolution of global markets is creating new opportunities and risks for our clients. For these organisations, Clifford Chance's well-established 'one firm' approach that combines expertise and deep experience across sectors, practices and geographies around the world is of huge value. I am greatly looking forward to working with my fellow partners and colleagues as we continue to build on our position at the forefront of the global legal elite."
Malcolm Sweeting, Clifford Chance Senior Partner added, "I'd like to take this opportunity to thank David for his outstanding leadership during his two terms as Managing Partner, and for his energy, dedication and commitment to Clifford Chance throughout a distinguished career spanning 40 years. David has made a tremendous contribution to our strategic development and the delivery of our global ambitions. I know that Matthew shares David's passion for Clifford Chance and I look forward to working with him as we continue to set the standard for the global legal industry."
Daniel Badea, Managing Partner Clifford Chance Badea, the Romanian office of the law firm, added: "I also congratulate Matthew for his new position. Partners have entrusted him with their votes, in view of years of continuous performance, which have confirmed that he has the necessary strength to fulfil our partners' vision for the future of the firm at a global level. Clifford Chance Badea remains a key player for our presence in the region and I am certain that, alongside Matthew, we will further consolidate our reputation as a leader, setting the best professional practices through some of the most sophisticated transactions in key areas around the region”.
