Linklaters appoints first chief operating officer

International law firm Linklaters has announced the appointment of Jim Wadia as its first chief operating officer (COO), where he will be part of the firm's senior management team, working alongside senior partner Anthony Cann and reporting to managing partner Tony Angel.

Wadia joins Linklaters after 12 years with Arthur Anderson, where he latterly held the position of worldwide managing partner and chief executive officer.

Wadia has particular experience in the challenges that face professional service firms organizing to meet the needs of global clients, as well as in the successful management of post-merger integrations.

"With the rapid expansion of the firm, the value we gain from someone of Jim's calibre is clear," comments Angel. "Jim's unparalleled international management experience is just what the firm was looking for."