The Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR) is attempting to raise its profile internationally with the appointment of former president of the International Bar Association (IBA) Francis Neate as a special adviser.

Neate, who finished his role as president of the IBA at the end of 2006 and is part-time of counsel at US firm Kirkland & Ellis, has been taken on by the mediation agency to market its services outside the UK.

The move follows a number of international initiatives by CEDR, including opening a centre in Beijing last year. Neate will also take a place on CEDR's 'A-list' of mediators who work for the body on an exclusive basis.

Other names soon to join the panel include CMS Cameron McKenna former head of litigation and dispute resolution Tim Hardy and US mediator Mike Holland, who is president of transatlantic claims management service Elliston.

Neate said: "Now that I am no longer IBA president, I have time to devote to mediation, and I am looking forward to spreading this message more widely around the world."