Mr Carmody joined the firm in 2002 and has been head of its financial services department since 2018 and a member of its senior management group since 2020. He advises domestic and international financial institutions in Ireland and will now guide the firm through its next period of growth and development.

During Mr Black’s nine-year tenure, the firm has more than doubled in size and revenue, becoming the fourth-largest law firm in Ireland by lawyer numbers. Mr Black will remain client-facing and continue in his role as a dispute resolution partner, prioritising strategic and high-profile litigation matters.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Carmody said: “I look forward to building on the growth of the last nine years. The success of our firm is dependent on our lawyers continuing to retain the trust and confidence of our clients. We will do this by nurturing the most talented lawyers to provide excellent legal advice aligned with our clients’ commercial objectives.

“Ireland’s position in the EU, together with its stable investment climate and healthy domestic economy, gives us confidence and we look forward to the continued growth of our firm alongside the success of our clients.”

Reflecting on his tenure, Mr Black said: “While the growth of the firm is gratifying, I am most proud of the culture of excellence, opportunity and integrity that exists in Mason Hayes & Curran. That’s a testament to all the staff over the years.

“I am delighted that Will has been selected to take the firm forward and have no doubt that the firm will continue to prosper under his guidance.”

Christine O’Donovan, chair of the firm, added: “We are very grateful to Declan Black for his unrelenting focus on clients and primacy of client service. Despite many challenging times, including Brexit and the pandemic, Declan has been steadfast in his stewardship and support for clients and staff.

“Also, working closely with Will in building a leading financial services practice over the last two decades, I have seen first-hand how he is uniquely equipped with the necessary leadership skills required at the helm, which the firm, clients and staff will benefit from greatly in the coming years.”