Paul Dolman has taken over from Phil Sanderson as head of Travers Smith's private equity team as part of a wider reshuffle of practice heads.

Sanderson, who has been head of private equity since 2008, makes way for another of the firm's experienced private equity hands.

Dolman made partner in 2006 and counts Bridgepoint Capital and Darwin Private Equity among his clients.

Dolman said of his plans for the 10-partner private equity team: "I am fortunate enough to be inheriting the leadership of the group at a time when the stars seem to be aligned. The last six months have been very busy for us and the market is in the best place it's been in a long time. We'll try to make hay while the sun shines."

Elsewhere, Jane Tuckley takes over from Margaret Chamberlain as head of financial services and markets, Anthony Judge replaces Julian Bass as real estate head and Matt Ayre takes charge of the firm's banking and corporate recovery department from Jeremy Walsh.

The firm has downplayed the significance of the shake-up, stressing that the changes were intended to keep the practices fresh after leaders had been in post for a long time. The new appointments came into force today and coincide with the start of the firm's financial year. The four former heads continue in their fee earning roles.

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