Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer dispute resolution partner Sarah Parkes and corporate partner Adrian Maguire have taken over as co-chairs of the firm's associate engagement group (AEG).

The duo replace restructuring head Ken Baird and competition partner Nicholas French, who have completed their one-year terms as co-heads of the group.

They join three other partners and 11 associates on the AEG, which was set up three years ago with the aim to increase associate involvement in the running of the office.

The next meeting will take place in July, with a further two meetings to be held over the next 12 months.

Parkes told Legal Week: "During the first year, the group saw a lot of quick wins. Last year we launched a number of longer-term projects. Going into the third year of the AEG, we are looking to build on those projects, strengthening further the ties that associates have with the business and the running of the firm."

The AEG is still working on initiatives drawn up last year, which saw associates calling for greater involvement with clients and business development, as well as better-defined career paths within the firm.

The firm's first associate away-day in 2007 highlighted career structure as one of the main issues concerning fee earners.