US-headquartered firm White & Case has announced that its executive partner in London has stepped down so he can concentrate on taking the fight to the City’s magic circle elite.

In a statement today the firm said Oliver Brettle has been asked by the firm’s chairman Hugh Verrier to focus on delivering the firm’s 2020 strategy. He has been replaced by Melissa Butler.

Verrier said: ‘I have asked Oliver Brettle in his ongoing role on the executive committee to focus on delivering our 2020 strategy, including global initiatives that support its execution and strengthen the firm’s competitive position vis-à-vis the magic circle. To allow him to dedicate the time needed to drive these important activities, Oliver has stepped down as London office executive partner after nearly ten years in the role, during which time our London office has become an acknowledged market leader.’

Brettle said: ‘I look forward to continuing to drive our 2020 strategy globally. In London, that includes cementing our status at the top of the legal market and competing toe-to-toe with the magic circle and other elite global firms.’

The firm declined to comment further.