Baker & McKenzie Names Ian Dinwiddie Its New Chief Financial Officer

Baker & McKenzie has appointed Ian Dinwiddie as its Global Chief Financial Officer, succeeding Robert Spencer, who has held senior roles in the Firm since 1993.  As CFO, Mr. Dinwiddie will be responsible for developing and driving the strategic financial initiatives of the world’s largest law firm.

Mr. Dinwiddie begins his tenure with Baker & McKenzie this week. His term as CFO will take effect 1 January 2012 following Mr. Spencer’s retirement at the end of this year.  He will be based in London and Chicago.

Mr. Dinwiddie comes to the Firm with extensive experience in the financial, accounting, and legal industries, including 20 years as Finance Director at Allen & Overy.

“Ian’s global experience and exceptional track record make him an ideal fit as we accelerate our efforts to grow, better leverage our distinctive global platform and become an even more client-driven global law firm,” said Eduardo Leite, Chairman of Baker & McKenzie’s Executive Committee.

Mr. Spencer has led the Firm’s global financial team for nearly two decades.  He also served as the Firm’s chief operating officer for two years.  During his tenure, the Firm has more than quadrupled its global fee income and profits, while increasing its presence in emerging markets, Europe and the Middle East. This has included the opening of offices in the People’s Republic of China, Malaysia, Vietnam, Chile, the Czech Republic, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Luxembourg, Austria and, most recently, Turkey.  The Firm also has developed the legal profession’s largest shared service center, with nearly 500 employees located in the Philippines.

“Bob Spencer has been a critical influence in every strategic decision we have made as a Firm for the past 18 years,” said Mr. Leite. “We are fortunate to have worked with Bob and thank him for his outstanding leadership, insight and resolve in advancing the Firm.  Bob leaves big shoes to fill, but we are very confident that Ian’s deep knowledge and broad experience will enable us to build on Bob’s many contributions.”