Hogan Lovells CEO-select Miguel Zaldivar has nominated, with the Board’s full support and unanimous approval, London-based litigation partner Michael Davison as the firm’s proposed Deputy CEO from 1 July 2020.
An international arbitration lawyer by background, Michael is qualified in England, France and the Republic of Ireland. He currently heads our Litigation, Arbitration, and Employment practice and is involved in the TMT and ENRG industry groups. His clients include AES, Koch and Transocean. Michael has been described by The Legal 500 as “undoubtedly one of the leading practitioners in Europe” and by Chambers as “absolutely brilliant.”
Michael has been a member of the International Management Committee since 2013 and, alongside his client and management commitments, he has been a major supporter of and contributor to the firm’s pro bono work and diversity and inclusion commitments. He has a strong interest in the use of technology including AI to support our clients and is leading a number of projects in this area.
According to Hogan Lovells’ Chair, Leopold von Gerlach: “The Board is unanimous in supporting Miguel’s choice and is very pleased that Michael has agreed to bring his leadership experience and capabilities to the role of Deputy CEO. He has a very strong track record as a long-serving practice group leader and is well positioned throughout the firm to take on the role.”
Commenting on the nomination, Michael Davison says: “Miguel has a very clear sense of where he wants to take the firm with a sharp focus on client service, investment in our key markets, incentivizing collaboration across the partnership, managing our profitability and supporting diversity & inclusion. He and I share this thinking and I am looking forward to working with him.”
The recommendation of Miguel Zaldivar to become the firm’s CEO is subject to a confirmation vote by partners, the results of which are expected to be announced later in December. His appointment would make him the only current Amlaw 50 law firm leader of Hispanic American origin. Michael Davison’s appointment as Deputy CEO is conditional on Miguel Zaldivar’s appointment being agreed by the partnership.
