Genus Law appoints new chief executive

Leeds-based Genus has received backing from Andrew Bert’ Black, the gambling entrepreneur who founded Betfair, Jeremy Fenn, the former head of Sports Internet Group, which was sold to BSkyB for £301m, and Jag Mundi, a City lawyer turned high-flying investment banker.

Last night, Genus Law, which was formerly known as Brilliant Law, confirmed that its directors participated in the latest fundraising. Mr Mundi, who is the company’s chairman, said that Genus plans to become a top 30 law firm in the next five to seven years.

In a statement, Genus said: “The fundraising will enable Genus Law to accelerate our growth plans, supporting acquisitions and recruitment of teams in corporate and commercial.”

Genus has also appointed Judit Petho as its new chief executive. She replaces Matthew Briggs, who left the business earlier this year. Ms Petho trained as a lawyer and started her career with Arthur Andersen and CMS Cameron McKenna in Hungary, before moving to France where she gained an MBA from HEC Paris.

In 2010, Ms Petho became CEO of Manches, a £30m turnover UK law firm with 300 staff.

Ms Petho said: “Genus Law is well positioned to challenge the old-school partnership model both in terms of client service and providing unparalleled career opportunities.”