Global law firm Freshfields has announced the re-election of Georgia Dawson as Senior Partner, with the next term commencing in January 2026.

First elected in 2020, Dawson’s re-election reflects strong partner support and confidence in her continued leadership to deliver global growth and strategic progress.

During Dawson’s first term, she has overseen a period of meaningful evolution at Freshfields - deepening client relationships, strengthening in strategic markets, such as the US, and advancing the firm’s commitments to innovation, inclusion and sustainability. Her first term also saw the introduction of a refreshed brand identity, reinforcing Freshfields’ ambition to be the firm of the future.

Dawson will continue to work alongside Global Managing Partners Alan Mason and Rick van Aerssen as part of the firm’s global leadership team, with Rafique Bachour stepping back from his leadership responsibilities to focus on his market leading client practice.

Dawson said: “It’s a privilege to continue serving as Senior Partner and I’m proud of the progress we have made to date. With strong momentum behind us, we’re refining what works and picking up the pace where we can do more, drawing on the strength of our global, multi-disciplinary platform. 

“I’m deeply grateful to Rafique for his leadership and support over the past term - he has been instrumental in helping shape the firm’s direction and commitment to our clients.  Alongside Alan and Rick, our ambition remains clear: to be the firm of the future, agile, principled and relentlessly focused on helping our clients succeed. That means continuing to invest in our people, to lead with purpose and deepening our global capabilities for the benefit of our clients.”