A new management team has taken over law practice Herbert Smith since the the firm's conversion to an LLP on 1 April.

David Gold is senior partner and Sonya Leydecker has replaced him as head of litigation and arbitration. Michael Walter and Jason Fox are the new heads of corporate and finance respectively.

Former executive partner Iain Rothnie is acting chief operating officer (COO) and responsible for the day-to-day running of the firm's business. A professional manager will be appointed to undertake the COO role in due course, the company said.

These partners sit on the executive committee, chaired by David Gold, which is responsible for managing the business of the firm on behalf of the partnership council, the firm's governing body.

Also on the executive committee is the firm's new business development partner, Henry Raine, who is responsible for coordinating the business development activities of the practice areas.


The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.