LAW firm Watson Burton has appointed Mark Whitehead as associate in the corporate department.

Mr Whitehead joins from rival firm Dickinson Dees, where for eight years he was a senior member of a team of lawyers specialising in IT, e-commerce, intellectual property and commercial agreements.

He has specialised in commercial law since qualifying and has expertise in negotiating complex contracts. He is also an expert in sports law.

Gillian Hall, head of corporate law at Watson Burton, said: "Mark is a strong appointment for us. He has an excellent track record of high-profile transactions and contractual work, and knows the North of England business community well.

"He is also keen to develop business within the practice and, as we are growing quickly, Mark's approach suits us well."

Mr Whitehead began his legal career at Eversheds' Birmingham and Newcastle offices, before moving to Dickinson Dees.

During the past three years he has also worked on secondment for Huntsman Tioxide Limited, Uniqema Limited, PX Limited and Sembcorp Utilities Teesside Limited. His sports-related work includes advising Newcastle United FC, Northumberland Cricket Club, Cardiff Devils Ice Hockey, Fila and acting as legal secretary to the British Taekwondo Control Board.