Bristol’s largest law firm Burges Salmon has named Roger Bull as its next managing partner, succeeding Peter Morris, who is at the end of his current term.
The changeover takes effect on May 1. Peter Morris, who became managing partner in 2010, will remain with the firm and assist with the transition. 
Roger joined Burges Salmon in 1995 as a trainee solicitor, qualifying two years later. He became a partner on in 2003 and head of the firm’s employment team on in 2011. Before then he served as a member of the firm’s executive committee between 2009 and 2011.
Pictured: Roger Bull, left, with outgoing managing partner Peter Morris
Peter Morris said: “I am delighted that the partners have appointed Roger Bull as my successor. Roger and I are working towards a smooth transition and will continue to do so between now and May 1 and beyond.
“Roger, together with Chris Seaton our senior partner, will make a strong management team. I am confident that Burges Salmon will continue to prosper in their safe hands.”
Roger Bull added: “I am excited and honoured to be succeeding Peter as the firm’s next managing partner. During Peter’s eight-year tenure, his drive and leadership have been instrumental in positioning Burges Salmon as one of the UK’s most successful independent law firms.”
Roger will maintain responsibility for a number of key client relationships following his appointment. Experienced employment partner Adrian Martin will take over from Roger to head the Burges Salmon’s employment team from May 1.
Burges Salmon employs more than 700 employees, including 360 lawyers and 85 partners, in its offices in Bristol and London.
Last July the firm posted a 16.3% fall in annual profit per equity partner (PEP) to £438,000 with Peter Morris describing it as a ‘challenging’ financial year.
Revenues were stable at £87m. The results followed a record year for Burges Salmon in 2015-16 when revenues climbed by 8.2% and PEP by 7.2%.
The firm can trace its origins back to 1841 when Edward Burges set up as a sole practitioner.
