Hamza, who joined DACB in 2012, acts for a wide range of UK and international clients in the health and social care sector, including NHS commissioners and providers, medtech and digital health companies, independent health and social care operators, and voluntary sector organisations.

Assuming the role of sector lead on 1 May 2023, Hamza replaces Nigel Montgomery, who has held the position since 2003. Nigel will remain as a partner in DACB’s clinical risk team.

Hamza said, “Under Nigel’s leadership, DACB has reinforced its position as the leading legal adviser to the health sector. Our team has a stellar reputation, an exceptional client base, and through its work at the forefront of policy developments, consistently gets to the heart of issues that matter to our clients.

“I feel privileged to have the opportunity to build on the solid foundations that Nigel has put in place, and I am looking forward to overseeing the continued growth of our international, national and regional health business while supporting our clients in the delivery of high quality care.”

Nigel Montgomery commented, “I would like to congratulate Hamza on his appointment. He is an astute and vastly experienced lawyer, and having worked closely with him for a number of years, I know he will lead the team brilliantly.”

DACB advises over 300 public and independent healthcare clients on the full breadth of legal services. Its work in recent years has included helping the NHS – a longstanding client – manage the impacts of and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as advising on cutting-edge projects and some of the most significant judicial reviews that are shaping the future of health and social care.

Over the past twelve months, the firm has also strengthened its offering to health and social care clients with a number of senior appointments, including Oliver Crich, Gemma Brannigan and Emma-Jane Dalley as partners.