Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has appointed a new joint leader for its financial institutions group (FIG), with City disputes partner Andrew Hart taking on the role.

Hart (pictured) replaces Will Lawes in the post, which will see him co-lead the sector group alongside Frankfurt-based corporate partner Gunnar Schuster and London banking partner Sean Pierce.

The position came up after Lawes was recently elected as Freshfields' next senior partner.

Hart, who also led the financial institutions disputes group from 2006 to 2009, has been with the magic circle firm since 1996 and has been a partner for 13 years. His term as FIG co-head is for four years.

Freshfields managing partner Ted Burke said: "Andy's vast experience in the financial services sector, global outlook and leadership ability make him particularly well-suited for this job. He brings a different perspective because of his focus on contentious regulatory matters, a perspective that is well suited to the current environment."

"Our financial services practice is extremely important to us and we feel that our leadership team for this sector reflects our commitment to provide a full service offering to our financial clients."

Hart added: "The regulatory changes will fundamentally affect the way in which our FIG clients do business, what products they sell and how they sell them."

Lawes was elected as Freshfields' next senior partner on 30 September after winning a contested partnership vote against chief executive Ted Burke, who was subsequently made managing partner. Lawes will take on his new role from 1 January 2011.