(UK, 1 January 2024) Bobby Smithson, Partner at leading intellectual property law firm Appleyard Lees, has been appointed as the firm’s Managing Partner, effective 1 January 2024.

Bobby brings to his new role a wealth of experience, having been an integral part of Appleyard Lees since joining the firm in 2002 and the partnership in 2009.

Bobby shared his excitement about the new role, stating, "I am honoured to take on the role of Managing Partner at Appleyard Lees. I am grateful for the trust placed in me by my fellow partners and am committed to continue the great work that David has started alongside our CEO and senior management team. I also look forward to working closely with our skilled team of IP professionals in continuing to deliver excellent client service.”

David Clark, who has served as the firm’s Managing Partner for the preceding two and a half years, said, "I am thrilled to pass the baton to Bobby. His commitment to continuous improvement makes him the perfect choice to lead the firm. I am confident that under Bobby’s guidance Appleyard Lees will thrive."

Bobby holds additional supervisory roles within the firm, including leading the firm’s ED&I initiatives. He is a signatory to the IP Inclusive Leaders pledge and has been an active member of the Senior Leaders’ Diversity Think Tank since its inception.

About Appleyard Lees

Appleyard Lees is a leading intellectual property law firm with approximately seventy five patent and trade mark attorneys and litigators.

Who we are and what we do – but also, how we do it – makes us distinctive.

We help our clients protect and monetise their intellectual property, and manage post-grant challenges, should they arise.

We offer broad sector and industry knowledge, plus the ability to adapt our services to specific client requirements, in an agile way.

With offices in UK innovation hotspots, we are positioned to give clients expert strategic IP advice in the UK and worldwide.