Global legal practice Norton Rose Fulbright today announced that the chairman of Norton Rose Fulbright in South Africa, Sbu Gule, has also become global chairman, effective May 1, 2014.

Sbu is an employment and labour partner and is based in Johannesburg.

Sbu takes over from Adrian Ahern, whose term as global chairman expired by rotation on April 30, 2014. Adrian continues as chairman of Norton Rose Fulbright in Australia and as a vice-chairman of Norton Rose Fulbright globally.

Peter Martyr, global chief executive, Norton Rose Fulbright said:

“The appointment of Sbu Gule to the role of global chairman is a significant milestone for Norton Rose Fulbright and highlights the importance of the African region to the development of our global business. 

“Sbu’s knowledge of the South African and wider African markets will be invaluable as we look to expand across the continent.

“I would like to thank Sbu’s predecessor, Adrian Ahern, who has worked tirelessly in the development of global client relations. “

Sbu Gule, global chairman, Norton Rose Fulbright, said:

“This is a very exciting opportunity and I am honoured to be the first South African appointed to the global chairman role. My  focus will be on our clients and ensuring we deliver them the highest quality legal advice and industry expertise, wherever they are working with us around the globe.  I will also play an active role in the Global Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Council, particularly in developing our under-privileged lawyers”.