Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has appointed a new global head of finance, with London banking head David Trott succeeding longstanding practice chief Alan Newton.

Trott (pictured), who will begin his four-year term later this year (1 September), has a client list that includes Debenhams, Heineken, Morgan Stanley Real Estate Fund, Apollo, as well as Barclays, Lloyds and HSBC.

Meanwhile, restructuring and insolvency head Ken Baird has been appointed as London finance head, and will also serve a four-year term from the same point.

Baird, who has headed up the magic circle firm's restructuring team since 2007, will continue to lead the practice alongside his new role.

There will be a handover period over the summer, with Newton – who has held the role of global head of finance since 2008 – subsequently returning to full-time client work. Both appointments were subject to a partnership vote.

Senior partner Will Lawes commented: "Alan began the global finance head role as the credit crunch first started and has led the group during some incredibly difficult market conditions. David and Ken are both outstanding lawyers with significant management experience and widely respected in their fields."

Trott added: "Alan has been instrumental in moulding an exceptionally strong and balanced platform which I am convinced is very well placed to exploit the rapidly evolving market conditions that we face."