Ashurst chair steps down
The global chairman of multinational law firm Ashurst is stepping down from the partnership at the end of July to accept a judicial appointment.
Ben Tidswell – who joined Ashurst in 1993, made partner in 2000, was appointed a firm board member in 2007 and then chairman in 2013 – is stepping down on 31 July 2021.
Reflecting on his departure, Mr Tidswell said that Ashurst has “changed radically” in the 25 years he has worked at the firm, and that it has been exciting to be part of the evolution that the multinational firm has undergone.
“I am delighted to be appointed to sit in the Competition Appeal Tribunal. It has been a privilege to serve the firm as its global chairman for the past eight years, and as a partner for 21 years,” he said.
He is leaving the firm, he continued, “in a very strong position” under the leadership of global managing partner Paul Jenkins, who is based in Sydney and London, as well as Mr Jenkins’ management team and board.
“As a partnership, we have developed an exceptionally well-integrated international business. We have great momentum in the market, and have deep and trusted relationships with our global clients,” Mr Tidswell said.
“Ashurst’s diverse workforce, know how, commitment to a clear purpose, and positive culture are some of its many great strengths, as we emerge from the shadow of Covid-19 with confidence and energy.”
Mr Jenkins paid tribute to Mr Tidswell’s “outstanding” career with the firm: “Ben has demonstrated exceptional leadership and client relationship skills, which have played a critical role in achieving positive outcomes for Ashurst.
“To me, his tenure will be defined by his unrelenting focus on our culture and clients, his strong values, and his ability to motivate and inspire all our people.
“On behalf of the partners, staff, and clients of the firm, I would like to take this opportunity to wish Ben the very best for the next stage of an already highly successful career.”
Moving forward, Ashurst will commence its search for a new global chairperson, who will commence in the role from 1 August 2021, for a four-year term.
Jerome Doraisamy
Jerome Doraisamy is the editor of Lawyers Weekly. A former lawyer, he has worked at Momentum Media as a journalist on Lawyers Weekly since February 2018, and has served as editor since March 2022. He is also the host of all five shows under The Lawyers Weekly Podcast Network, and has overseen the brand's audio medium growth from 4,000 downloads per month to over 60,000 downloads per month, making The Lawyers Weekly Show the most popular industry-specific podcast in Australia. Jerome is also the author of The Wellness Doctrines book series, an admitted solicitor in NSW, and a board director of Minds Count.
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