Magic circle firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has put nearly 200 personal assistant roles into review with many being offered voluntary redundancy.

Under the terms of the review, all PAs have been offered the chance to apply for an executive assistant role – a position that would involve fewer administrative tasks and working with fewer partners.

A firm spokesperson told the Gazette 180 roles will be affected by the review.

Current PAs who unsuccessfully apply for an EA role are able to choose between taking a voluntary redundancy package or staying in their current roles, the spokesperson said. Those who do not apply for the executive assistant role will choose between a voluntary redundancy pay-out or staying in their current role.

The news follows speculation over Freshfields’ new London headquarters. In November last year, the Gazette reported that the firm was set to relocate its headquarters from Fleet Street to 100 Bishopsgate.

The firm’s lease in Fleet Street reportedly expires in 2021 but new skyscraper accommodation is said to be being prepared for occupation next year.