Thompsons Solicitors, the leading trade union and personal injury law firm, has announced changes to its senior management structure, including the creation of the new post of Executive Chair and a new Chief Executive Officer. 

Current CEO, Geoff Shears, moves to become Executive Chair on 1 May next year, a key new role which includes responsibility for the strategic direction of the firm and for chairing the Supervisory Board.

The firm, which moved to a corporate structure in 2001, has named Stephen Cavalier as CEO designate. He will become CEO on 1 May next year.

The changes come at a critical time for trade union legal services and the rights of workers and injured people. The Executive Chair and CEO will work closely together to ensure the firm is best placed to meet the needs of its trade union and individual clients.

Geoff Shears said: "We are making these changes for sound and progressive reasons. They will enable the firm to implement its plans for the future, working closely with its trade union clients. The changes strengthen our senior management structure while advancing our succession planning, thus ensuring continuity of direction and purpose."

Stephen Cavalier said: "These are demanding times for the trade unions, with many legislative changes which provide opportunities and challenges. Thompsons, as a firm uniquely committed to the trade unions, faces similar challenges. These changes to our structure secure a strategically focussed senior management team, able to respond to change, secure our future and ensure we deliver for the unions and working people that we represent."