Linklaters banking partner John Tucker has stepped down from his role as global head of finance and projects, with global capital markets chief Jim Rice replacing him in the role.

The new appointment, which will take effect immediately, will see Rice (pictured) take up a four-year term as head of finance and projects alongside his role as capital markets head. Tucker will now return to full-time client work.

Linklaters' finance and projects division comprises the firm's banking, capital markets, projects, financial regulatory and its restructuring and insolvency practices. As divisional practice head, Rice will sit on the firm's executive committee, which is chaired by managing partner Simon Davies.

Rice, who will continue to handle client work, has been a partner at Linklaters since 1989 and global head of capital markets since 2008.

Commenting in the appointment, Davies said: "Jim has an outstanding track-record in both practice and management and I look forward to working with him to build on John's achievements, as we continue to deepen relationships with our clients and strengthen our reputation."

In recent months the firm has made several management changes, including in its global antitrust practice and its Chinese practice. Brussels-based partner Gerwin Van Gerven stepped down as head of the firm's antitrust practice last month, with London partner Michael Cutting appointed in his place.

The magic circle firm has also recently appointed corporate partner Fang Jian as national managing partner of its China arm, with corporate partner Betty Yap named head of the China practice.

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