Clifford Chance appoints new regional chief operating officer for UK

Clifford Chance has appointed Lizzie Goodburn as regional chief operating officer for the UK.

Reporting to UK managing partner Michael Bates and global chief operating officer Gavin Goodwin, Goodburn will be responsible for leading the operational management of the firm's UK business. As a member of both the UK leadership team and the global operational leadership group, she will be responsible for developing and implementing the firm's operational strategy in the UK region.

"We are delighted to be welcoming Lizzie into her new role,” said Bates. “Her insight, skills and experience gained as chief of staff to former global managing partner Matthew Layton and as an associate in our London and Singapore offices, along with her senior roles leading operations in other complex organisations, make her a great fit. She will bring energy, perspective and focus, and we look forward to her rejoining the firm."

Goodburn returns to Clifford Chance after seven months as VP of operations at software developer Beamery.

"Having worked closely with the firm's UK and global leadership over a number of years, I am delighted to take on the pivotal role leading operational strategy in the UK,” said Goodburn. “I've seen first-hand the firm's commitment to market-leading client service, to innovation and to always seek to improve our firm's culture. We are in a transformational period for the industry as a whole, and I look forward to working with my brilliant colleagues to ensure our firm's readiness for the years to come."

Goodburn replaces outgoing UK regional chief operating officer Sophie Schwass.

“Sophie's leadership and drive have enabled the firm to continue its success through our most profitable period, while ensuring that all of us had the support we needed to do the very best work for our clients," said Bates.