InterAct Europe, the pan-European network of independent legal practices founded by Pitmans in 1990, has appointed Paul Harding as chairman to develop the network’s presence across continental Europe.

An independent legal consultant, Harding has been active in the corporate sector across the European Union since 1992. High-profile instructions include the overseeing of the European operations of UK firm Titmuss Sainer Dechert until its merger with US firm Dechert in 2000.

Christopher Avery, managing partner of Pitmans, comments: “Paul’s reputation, contacts and expertise within the European legal sector are second-to-none and his arrival is a real boost to InterAct Europe and its strategic aims. InterAct Europe is one of the few European economic interest groups to have looked outside of its membership for an individual charged with driving development and I am sure that this is an approach that will pay dividends.”

Harding’s early priorities in his new role will focus on increasing InterAct Europe’s membership within the Iberian economies of Spain and Portugal, with the network aiming to have full service representation in all the major EU jurisdictions by 2012.

Harding, chairman of InterAct Europe, comments: “I am delighted to be taking over as chairman at this stage of InterAct Europe’s development, ahead of the targeted full service representation across the major EU jurisdictions by 2012. InterAct Europe is leading the way in legal collaboration across Europe and I look forward to helping the network reach its true potential.”

The appointment of Harding coincides with the arrival of Paris-based firm Ngo Cohen Amir-Aslani & Associates as a new member of the network. Comprising 50 professionals, the new arrival at InterAct Europe gives the network a full service capability in France and access to Vietnam through the firm’s Hanoi office.

Christopher Avery adds: “I would like to extend a warm welcome to Ngo Cohen Amir-Aslani & Associates, an excellent firm that joins at what is a fascinating time for the network. The expertise they bring to the network, allied to the increased opportunities for cooperation, will see great benefits for clients of all the member firms.”