Stephenson Harwood's highly-rated chief executive Sunil Gadhia is stepping down from his post at the end of September, with the firm appointing Sharon White as his successor.

White, who has been leading Stephenson Harwood's corporate practice for the last two years, will officially take up the management role in October after being appointed by the firm's partnership council last week. She will continue to lead the firm's corporate practice while serving as chief executive.

Gadhia, who held the chief executive post for six years, will return to fee earning work in the firm's litigation practice. He will also develop Stephenson Harwood's India practice, which he has led since he launched the group in 2004.

During his tenure, Gadhia has overseen strong growth in profits and expansion across Asia. Although profits per equity partner (PEP) dipped by 1.6% to £610,000 for 2008-09 down from £620,000 the previous year, over the last five years PEP rose from £280,000 to £610,000, representing a 118% increase over the period.

Gadhia said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed the responsibility of running the firm but have always enjoyed litigation. I am also excited about [the firm's] future under Sharon's leadership. She has a number of important skills and attributes for the job, including fabulous judgement, huge respect throughout the business and the ability to make very good decisions."