Ratcliffe replaces James Johnston, who is returning to full-time fee earning work, the firm said.

Ratcliffe first joined Bircham Dyson Bell in 2000, going on to be made partner in 2002. In the course of her work she advises UK and non-UK domiciled clients on estate and tax planning, and she is also experienced in trusts held both on and offshore.

In another recent appointment at the firm, last month saw Nick Holland named as head of contentious trusts and estates. He joined from Caymans-based Solomon Harris, where he had held a similar role.