Eversheds finance director and chief operating officer (COO) Kathryn Fleming (pictured) is set to leave the firm next year, after 10 years with the firm.

It is not yet clear what Fleming plans to do next or who her replacement will be.

In a statement, Fleming said: "The time is now right for me to take up a new challenge and I look forward to exploring new opportunities."

She was first appointed COO in 2014. Fleming has also held the role of finance director since 2009, having first joined the firm in 2006 as international finance director.

Previously, Fleming worked in a number senior finance roles within the retail and telecommunications sector, including as a financial controller at both BT and US manufacturer Johnson Controls.

The firm's chief executive, Bryan Hughes, said: "Kathryn has played an instrumental role in creating the strong, robust financial platform that Eversheds enjoys today and I am grateful for her commitment, dedication and wise counsel over the years. She has been an invaluable member of our senior management team and we wish her all the very best for the future."

Eversheds is set to undergo a leadership change in 2017, when Hughes steps down as chief executive in May of that year.

The election process for his successor is expected to take place in October, with current managing partner Lee Ranson the favourite for the role.