Eversheds managing partner Lee Ranson is set to be reappointed in his role, with the decision coming as Eversheds International chairman David Gray prepares to retire from the firm in April. 

Ranson's forthcoming reappointment comes after chief executive Bryan Hughes was re-elected for a second four-year term that will run from May 2013. 

Hughes is responsible for appointing the firm's senior management team, which comprises Ranson (pictured) as well as all the practice group heads, who are also expected to continue in their existing roles. Ranson became managing partner in 2009 when Hughes succeeded Gray as chief executive. 

Meanwhile, Gray's successor will be selected by the firm's international board, with any member of the board – which includes the managing partners of all the firms in the Eversheds International network – able to put themselves forward. 

The successful candidate will be tasked with appointing a new deputy chair, with both the chairman and the deputy set to join Eversheds' overall management board for the first time to improve integration. 

The international board was set up by Gray to police standards across its 45 international offices, and recently voted through a 12-point firm-wide standards code.

Hughes said of Gray's retirement: "David's tireless commitment and energy in the various roles he has held at the firm over many years has been pivotal in making Eversheds the global player we are today. We wish him well in his retirement and all the best with improving the accuracy of his golf handicap."

Eversheds also has a board for its LLP led by chairman John Heaps.