Latham & Watkins has appointed a new managing partner for its Brussels office, with antitrust partner Howard Rosenblatt named in the role.

Rosenblatt, who joined Latham just one year ago from rival US firm Howrey, takes over the management position from fellow antitrust partner Andreas Weitbrecht.

Weitbrecht, who had led the 12-partner office since its launch in 2002 and is a former co-chair of Latham's global competition team, will continue to practise in Brussels and also in Frankfurt.

Commenting on the change, Latham chairman and managing partner Robert Dell said: "[Rosenblatt] brings strong leadership skills to the position and a formidable reputation before the competition Bar and he will serve with great distinction in his new role.

"[He] has already made a significant contribution to the success of the European antitrust and competition practice group since he joined Latham & Watkins last year."

Rosenblatt said: "[Weitbrecht] has done a terrific job of guiding the office's development into one of the leading practices in Brussels. I am honoured to have the opportunity to lead this extraordinary team of first-rate professionals as we continue to strengthen our position as one of Europe's elite competition practices."

Latham currently has some 45 competition lawyers based in Europe, including around 20 in Brussels.