UK-based law firm Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) has continued its management reorganisation with the promotion of George Macheras to global maritime sector co-head.
He replaces Lindsey Keeble, who takes up the role of WFW's managing partner on 1 February.
George Paleokrassas, who has been elected senior partner from the same date, will remain the other co-head of shipping.
Macheras was made partner in 2018 and advises on all aspects of ship financing, as well as on commercial matters relating to the sale, purchase, employment and operation of all maritime asset classes.
Clients span the shipping and offshore industries, including financial institutions, owners, managers and charterers.
Keeble said: "It has been an immense privilege to have led the firm's global maritime sector group since 2013.
"George’s passion for the maritime sector is impressive and he is representative of the up-and-coming next generation of partner talent at WFW. I am confident that he will make this role a huge success."
Encouraging growth
Paleokrassas described Macheras as talented and dynamic.
"I look forward to working closely with him as we continue with our strategy of attracting new talent and clients to the firm, encouraging growth and reinforcing WFW's standing as the leading maritime legal practice worldwide," he added.
Macheras, based in London, has been with WFW for 12 years. Before that, he was a solicitor at the Royal Bank of Scotland and a trainee lawyer at Reed Smith.
He said he is honoured to follow "such a long-standing, successful and highly respected predecessor as Lindsey".
"She's a tough act to follow, but I look forward to working alongside George and being part of the continued success of the firm and the maritime sector group," he said.
The promotion of Paleokrassas to senior partner last year meant WFW switched from the previous practice of having joint managing partners. The company currently lists Chris Lowe and Lothar Wegener as managing partners.
Paleokrassas' other role as head of the Athens office has gone to experienced WFW partner Alexia Hatzimichalis.
