Women account for almost one-third of new partners in the magic circle’s latest appointment round, a slightly higher proportion than last year. Of the 91 promotions across the five firms, 29 (32%) went to women.

Last year there was a big jump in women appointments, which accounted for 30% of the total compared with just 14% in 2013.

Allen & Overy promoted 22 to partner, of who nine are women – taking the firm’s total proportion of female partners to 17%.

The promotions span 12 offices in 11 countries, with the largest number in the banking practice.

Managing partner Wim Dejonghe said: ‘This year’s promotions underline our strategy of continued investment in our core developed markets, particularly in France, Germany and Spain which make up over 30% of our new partners.

‘The US is also a key market for us, where we are focused on sustained investment to create long-term growth and why we are pleased to see a number of US-qualified lawyers made up in both the US and other offices around the network.’

Women make up nearly a third of promotions (seven) at Linklaters, which elected 23 partners. Of the appointments, 15 are based outside London with nine promoted from the role of counsel.

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer named 17 partners - six are women - in its latest promotions round.

Clifford Chance elected 25 partners; five are women. Managing partner Matthew Layton said: ‘Many of our new partners are already well recognised as key individuals in their fields.

‘They have impressive track records on high-profile and ground-breaking mandates, and play leading roles in helping those clients grappling with the implications of the increasingly complex global business and financial environment.’

Slaughter and May has promoted four, including two women, to the partnership.