Law firm Ince & Co has appointed Stuart Shepherd as global head of trade.

He replaces Steven Fox, who is retiring in April 2014, after 33 years at the firm. Shepherd himself has been with Ince & Co for 32 years, having joined in 1982. He’s a specialist in commodities, shipping and commercial disputes and has been partner in the firm’s international trade and commodities group since 1990.

Will Marshall will assume the role of group managing partner for trade with immediate effect. Marshall has been with Ince & Co for 15 years and specialises in trade and energy.

Steven Fox, outgoing global head of trade, says: “Stuart and Will have in-depth experience in the international trade and commodities industry and are highly-regarded for their legal expertise in this area. Both have demonstrated an ability to build strong client relationships and serve as effective team leaders.

“Stuart has been instrumental in optimising our global trade practice, particularly relating to coal and oil and gas trading. Will has successfully led efforts to develop our marketing and client services, and his experience of trading operations and the particular issues that trading companies have, enables him to understand the day to day concerns of our clients.”