Eversheds' former London senior partner and pensions group chief Anthony Arter will be the next pensions ombudsman, starting 25 May 2015, it has been announced.

As pensions ombudsman, a public appointment made by the secretary of state for work and pensions, Arter will oversee the Pensions Ombudsman Service, a non-departmental, independent organisation that investigates complaints about pension administration.

Arter (pictured) will serve in the role for a four year term, replacing incumbent Tony King who has held the position since 2007.

Arter said the role required someone with an understanding of the need for "independence".

He added: "It is a vital role and one which I will ensure is upheld. I welcome the challenges ahead in the increasingly vibrant pensions landscape."

Arter has been a consultant in Eversheds' human resources practice since he retired as London senior partner last April.

He first took on the London senior partner role in September 2009 when he replaced Cornelius Medvei in the post.

Last year, joint head of the firm's UK financial services team Pamela Thompson became the new City office chief, one of a quartet of new senior office partners appointed by Eversheds. The firm also appointed senior office partners in the Newcastle, Nottingham and Cardiff offices.

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