Former Olswang CEO David Stewart has left the firm, having unexpectedly stepped down from his management role halfway through his term earlier this month.

Stewart (pictured) resigned as CEO just 18 months after he was re-elected to a second three-year term in 2013. He became Olswang's CEO in 2010, when it dropped the managing partner position he had held  since 2007.

Stewart revealed on professional networking site LinkedIn that he is "looking for new opportunities", citing his management experience at his "then firm" Olswang.

His options could include a career away from law, with the former litigator adding that he is "interested in opportunities to use [his] dispute and management skills".

His profile reads: "I am now looking to use the skills and relationships I have built over my career to date in interesting new roles and projects around the world."

An Olswang spokesperson confirmed Stewart's exit but did not disclose any further details. Stewart declined to comment.

Head of European patent litigation Michael Burdon has taken over as interim CEO at the firm. He adopted the role on the basis that he would be able to continue with his client work.

The firm stated earlier this month that the partnership is expected to elect a new CEO "in due course".