DWF has reappointed managing partner Andrew Leaitherland for a new three-year term in the top role.

Leaitherland (pictured), who stood unopposed for the role, has overseen significant growth during his tenure at the helm of the firm. He was first appointed to the role in 2006 and was re-elected unopposed in 2009 for a second term.

DWF is among the fastest-growing regional firms in the UK, with fee income climbing 15% to £83m during 2010-11, after a 17% increase posted the previous year. Profits per equity partner at the firm have risen from £213,000 in 2008-09 to £390,000 last year.

Key drivers of the firm's growth in recent years have included its insurance and contentious base, as well as the addition of a London office in 2008.

News of Leaitherland's reappointment comes after the firm called off merger talks with fellow northwest firm Cobbetts at the end of January this year, a decision the firm attributed to "uncertainty in market conditions". A merger would have catapulted the united firm into the UK top 30, with combined revenues of around £128m.

Last year Leaitherland confirmed that DWF had held informal merger talks with a number of firms, with the firm subsequently confirming the acquisition of Newcastle's Crutes in a £5m deal.

DWF chairman Alan Benzie said: "Andrew has been the prominent force behind the consistent and highly successful growth realised by the business in recent years. His reappointment was uncontested, recognising the partnership's belief that with his continuing leadership the firm will achieve its strategic ambitions."