Mayer Brown has appointed London-based real estate partner Jeremy Clay as its global managing partner.

Clay succeeds litigation and dispute resolution partner Kenneth Geller, who has stepped down after nine years in the role. Geller will remain at the firm as a disputes partner.

Clay, who is currently based in the firm's City office, will split his time between Mayer Brown's New York and London bases. He will continue in a fee-earning role, working with some of the firm's major real estate clients.

He joined the firm in 1983 and was promoted to partner six years later. He led the firm's real estate practice from 2002 to 2013, and previously served as executive partner of the London office.

Last year, Clay advised LKK Health Products Group on its £1.3bn purchase of 20 Fenchurch Street, better known as the 'Walkie Talkie'.

Mayer Brown chairman Paul Theiss said: "Jeremy's broad experience in the firm brings a positive dynamic perspective as we continue our evolution as a world-class, global law firm. In addition, all of us at Mayer Brown appreciate and recognise the countless contributions of my friend and colleague, Ken Geller."

Clay added: "While the market for legal services is more competitive than ever, our commitment to client service, professional excellence and the continued strengthening of our client relationships, is the key to the continued development of Mayer Brown as one of the leading international business law firms."