Partner promotions at international firms Reed Smith and Norton Rose Fulbright have remained high this year, with 17 London lawyers receiving the nod.

Some 31 associates and counsel at Reed Smith have advanced to partner worldwide, up from 30 last year. Of these, nine are based in the UK and 42% are women. Just three London lawyers were promoted in 2020.

No partners were appointed in continental Europe, however, with the lion’s share of promotions going to lawyers in the US.

Casey Ryan, Reed Smith’s global head of legal personnel and a member of the senior management team, said: ‘These promotions result from their outstanding legal skills, dedicated client service, high levels of productivity and strong firm citizenship. They have each made valuable contributions to the success of our business, and we are confident they will continue to do so.’

Meanwhile, Norton Rose Fulbright has promoted 47 lawyers to partner and director worldwide. Eight of the appointees are based in the UK.

Gerry Pecht, global chief executive, said: ‘Practicing in 22 offices across 11 countries on six continents, these lawyers reflect the truly global nature of Norton Rose Fulbright and its wide range of client offerings. Most importantly, our firm’s continued focus on diversity and inclusion is showing positive results, with female lawyers accounting for more than half of our promotions.’

Partner promotion rounds have been strong so far this year in spite of market uncertainty caused by Covid-19. Yesterday, Hogan Lovells revealed it has appointed 25 new partners worldwide.