GTR has been informed that after 19 years’ service, Alexander Monk, partner at DLA Piper, is to leave the firm at the end of this week.

Monk said: “I am joining Thomas Cooper towards the end of August to further develop their finance practice with a focus on trade and commodity finance. It is a big move for me after my career so far at DLA but I am looking forward to joining a smaller, niche firm with a reputation and focus built on the trade and commodities world.”

Monk has extensive knowledge of trade and commodity finance transactions, acting for banks, financial institutions and corporates. While at DLA Piper, Monk’s practice covered European transactions and emerging markets with particular focus on Africa, Latin America and Asia.