Mr Williams, a partner in the firm’s financial services group since 2000, will lead the firm for the next four years, succeeding Emmet Scully.

Meanwhile, corporate partner Gerry Halpenny will assume the role of chairman, succeeding Michael Kavanagh.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Williams said: “LK Shields Solicitors LLP has a thriving client portfolio in both domestic and international markets across a wide variety of practice areas.

“Like all successful businesses, we will continue to adapt and innovate in accordance with the needs of our clients and the market as a whole. I look forward to all of the challenges and opportunities that the next four years will bring.”

Mr Scully said: “The changes are part of exciting new developments in the management structures of the firm. It was an honour to represent the firm as managing partner and I now look forward to returning full time to my client facing role as a senior partner in the corporate and M&A team.”

Mr Kavanagh will also resume client-facing work as head of the firm’s litigation and dispute resolution partner, while continuing to drive growth in the Western region through the continued expansion of the firm’s Galway office.