Linklaters has appointed Brussels partner Henk Vanhulle as its new global head of tax, with Yash Rupal stepping down from the role after completing a three-year term.

Vanhulle (pictured), who has been a partner with the magic circle firm since 1995 and Brussels tax chief since 2007, has significant experience in corporate tax, with particular emphasis on international tax planning, corporate finance, capital market transactions and corporate M&A.

His experience also includes employee share schemes and tax litigation, as well as tax aspects related to retail and private banking products and insurance products.

Following the appointment, Vanhulle's London-based predecessor Rupal will take the role of UK tax chief, succeeding fellow London-based tax partner Mark Kingstone.

Commenting on the appointment, Linklaters global head of commercial Arnauld de la Cotardiere said: "I'm delighted to welcome Henk into his new role. His extensive corporate tax experience, coupled with his focus on clients and people, makes him ideally suited for the role."

The news comes in the wake of several management changes at Linklaters, with client services head Richard Godden and derivatives and structured products head Michael Voisin both stepping down to be replaced by Fiona Hobbs and Mark Fletcher respectively.

For more, see Linklaters to bring in new team heads as heavyweight duo stand down.