Field Fisher Waterhouse has elected a new managing partner, with the firm's head of regulatory Matthew Lohn replacing Moira Gilmour in the role.

Lohn was elected to the role following a contested vote that also saw technology and outsourcing head Michael Chissick put himself forward.

Lohn said that the firm will continue to focus on its core practice areas including intellectual property (IP), technology, regulatory and corporate. He has also pledged to continue growing the firm's European offices.

Gilmour, who took up the managing partner role in 2006, did not run for a third term. Since she took up the management position the firm has increased turnover from £60m to £94m and has expanded in Europe, opening offices in Germany, Belgium and France.

Lohn commented: "Under Moira's leadership the firm has seen some big changes with significant growth in the UK as well as expansion across Europe. We have a sound base for future growth and I will be looking to continue to build on that, particularly in our continental European offices which I expect to form an increasing proportion of the firm's overall turnover."

He added: "The next three years are crucial to the development of the firm and, with a clear strategic focus on our regulatory, IP and technology and corporate practices, an international client base and a growing European footprint , I believe the firm is in a strong position."

In addition to his role leading the regulatory practice, Lohn has also overseen Field Fisher's graduate recruitment. He has been replaced as head of public regulatory by Manchester-based Sarah Ellson. Competition chief Charles Whiddington, meanwhile, will take over as head of the wider regulatory group.