She will step into the role on July 1, 2026, succeeding Margaret Robertson
Global firm Withers has elected private client and tax lawyer Ceri Vokes as its new chief executive officer effective July 1, 2026.
Vokes succeeds Margaret Robertson in the leadership role. Vokes has been with Withers since 2006.
“With the legal sector in a highly dynamic state driven by technological developments and geopolitical pressures, among other factors, Ceri will equip Withers to manage the required changes and work to our strengths,” Robertson said in a statement.
Robertson had led the firm for almost 25 years. She will work with Vokes on the transition process going into next year.
“I am thrilled to have been elected as CEO and am grateful to the firm's partnership for placing their trust in me. I want to acknowledge and thank Margaret for her 25 years of leadership and dedication; her clear vision has steered the firm with purpose and helped define the firm we are today,” Vokes said in a statement. “I will work closely with the firm's management team to deliver on our strategic priorities, harness our entrepreneurialism and realize our full potential.”
Vokes is expected to maintain her tax practice while performing her CEO responsibilities. As a lawyer, she focuses on tax and trust matters, advising entrepreneurs, founders, private equity and hedge fund principals, and large multi-generational family offices.
She has handled all types of tax and trust planning for UK and international clients. She has provided guidance on using corporate and partnership holding structures for private clients; she advised on a bespoke US/UK real estate carried interest structure.
Vokes has tackled contentious matters like those involving His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs. She has also acted for clients in sports and entertainment, having advised Jurgen Klopp on the tax aspects of Klopp’s move to Liverpool FC.
She is based in London and also co-leads Withers’ private client and tax team in Europe. Her appointment follows the ascension of Paul Hewitt to the role of Withers chair in July.
