Confectionary and soft drinks giant Cadbury Schweppes is overhauling its global legal function after hiring 15 new lawyers worldwide.

Chief legal officer Hank Udow's initiative will see five new practice groups created within the department: procurement, competition, emerging markets, food safety and tax.

Members of the company's now 80-strong legal team will be asked to specialise in one of the areas, with each team meeting up at least three times a year.