Berwin Leighton Paisner (BLP) has appointed corporate finance partner Jonathan Morris as its new head of corporate, replacing outgoing practice head David Collins.

Morris has been at the firm for nearly 25 years, having joined legacy Paisner & Co in 1990 before the firm's merger with Berwin Leighton to form BLP in 2001.

He has been credited with playing a key role in expanding BLP's capital markets capability and helping to build its network of preferred firms globally.

As corporate managing partner he will take a seat on BLP's board and head a team of 102 lawyers, including 39 partners across the firm. 

His appointment, effective immediately, comes as Collins is due to leave the firm in October after losing the contest to become the firm's new managing partner to employment head Lisa Mayhew in February.

It is unclear where Collins is going.

Mayhew said: "Jonny is perfectly positioned to continue the department's growth and build on its recent high profile successes and impressive workflow."

Morris said he was wanted to "continue to capitalise on the current momentum" of the firm's corporate team.

He said: "Additionally, I see huge opportunity both in the UK and internationally to develop our market leading commercial team, where we already work for some high-profile and respected businesses including National Grid, Barclays and Direct Line; and our investment management team, building on clients such as Aviva Investors, AXA Real Estate and Land Securities."