Clifford Chance’s EU and competition practice has secured a significant new signing with the appointment of Michel Petite, the former head of the European Commission (EC) Legal Service.

Mr Petite, who stepped down as director-general of the EC Legal Service in December after six years, will advise Clifford Chance clients on European Union issues, working closely with the firm's tax, banking and trade practices.

The 200-strong EC Legal Service is reponsible for advising the Commission on proposed legislation as well as investigating businesses accused of breaking European law and representing the Commission at the European Court of Justice.

A 28-year veteran of the Commission, Mr Petite, will also advise on international commercial law and World Trade Organisation matters.

He is the latest senior regulator to join an international law firm, although Clifford Chance said Mr Petite is the first head of the EC Legal Service to make such a move.

Last year, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer hired Alexander Schaub, the Commission's former head of internal markets and services, and Simon Priddis, senior director of the Office of Fair Trading.

Also last year, Linklaters appointed Sir Christopher Bellamy, the former head of the Competition Appeal Tribunal.

Mr Petite’s move to Clifford Chance comes on the back of a sustained boom in regulatory work at large law firms.

David Childs, Clifford Chance's managing partner, said: “In recent years we have seen a major increase in demand from global clients seeking guidance on how best to work within the EU framework to achieve their commercial objectives in Europe. Michel's experience will be invaluable in providing advice to these clients."

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