The board of Gateley has announced that Rod Waldie has been chosen to succeed Michael Ward as the firm's new chief executive officer.

Ward is due to stand down on April 30, 2020 but he will remain a main board director and will retain shares in Gateley.

Waldie is based in the firm's Manchester office and is currently head of the national property team and a member of the firm's management board.

He has also been involved in the integration of some of the firm's post-IPO acquisitions such as Gateley Capitus, Gateley Hamer and GCL Solicitors.

He is due to take the CEO role on May 1, 2020, subject to completion of regulatory due diligence checks.

In a statement, Nigel Payne, non-executive chairman of Gateley, said: "Our choice of an internal appointment to succeed Michael and our early addressing of succession allow for a smooth transition to a highly successful and respected colleague, who already knows the business, understands our collaborative culture, has excellent client relationships and is committed to the group's growth strategy."

In its latest financial results, the firm posted revenue rises of 19%, to hit £102 million for the first time.