Birmingham law firm Martineau has elected a new senior partner, with the firm's head of commercial Andrew Whitehead taking over the role from Roger Blears.

Whitehead, an energy specialist, will start a three-year term on 1 January replacing Blears who served one term in the management position. Blears will remain at the firm as head of corporate finance.

The firm has also reappointed its managing partner, with William Barker to continue in the role following an uncontested election. Baker has already spent six years at the helm of the Midlands firm.

Whitehead commented: "We have ambition beyond these shores, and our international networks and alliances – particularly Multilaw, and State Law Resources in the United States, are a terrific platform for us to grow our international business, particularly for our existing international clients."

"The real challenge for me is to continue the success we have enjoyed in the energy sector, which is now delivering growth in most if not all of our practice areas, and to expand the firm's successful business model."