Rouse appoints Julia Hayhoe as Chair of the Group to steward the firm through its next phase of strategic and sustainable growth. Julia joined Rouse as an independent Non-Executive Director earlier this year. She also sits on the boards of Lockton Companies LLP, Knight Frank, and the Global Advisory Counsel for The Corporate Governance Institute. Previous roles include Chief Strategy Officer at Baker McKenzie and equity partner at a specialist strategy consultancy, which was sold to Thomson Reuters.
Julia succeeds Paul Raleigh, who is stepping away from the role due to personal circumstances. Paul was appointed as Chair in August 2022, and under his leadership, Rouse experienced significant growth and transformation. Paul’s tenure marked the beginning of the minority investment from MML Capital with Valea, Konsert, aera, Arnold & Siedsma and Wrays joining the Group, expanding Rouse’s global footprint and specialist capabilities.
As outgoing Chair, Paul will continue to support a smooth handover and maintain continuity in Rouse’s vision, values and governance - strengthening the foundations that have enabled the firm’s sustained growth.
Julia’s appointment marks the next step in aligning Rouse’s Board, leadership team and Principals behind a shared strategy for the firm’s evolving scale and ambition. Her priorities as Chair will include embedding a deeply client-centric, collaborative mindset across the Rouse Group, developing leadership and talent, and leveraging IP strategy, expertise, data and technology to improve client outcomes and enhance the Group’s operating model.
Julia Hayhoe, incoming Chair, Rouse Group said: “As data and AI reshape markets and more business value sits in intangible assets, IP is clearly a strategic business asset. Rouse is a leader, not a follower, and is uniquely placed to guide clients by blending IP strategy, deep expertise, tech and cultural insight across markets. As Chair, my focus is on steering the next phase of sustainable growth by developing our people and platform, and helping clients realise and protect the full value of their IP.”
Luke Minford, CEO, Rouse Group said: “I want to thank Paul for his enormous contribution to Rouse over the past few years. His leadership has guided us through a period of significant transformation and growth, and we are stronger for it. During his tenure we’ve added more than 250 colleagues to the Rouse Group and have expanded to operate in an additional 7 jurisdictions - it is impressive growth and Paul has played a key role in it. I am also delighted to welcome Julia as Chair. Her strategic vision, experience and commitment to talent and client service make her the ideal person to help lead Rouse into its next chapter.”
Paul Raleigh, outgoing Chair, Rouse Group said: “It has been an honour to serve as Chair of Rouse over the past three years during such a crucial stage of the company’s development. I’m immensely proud of what we have achieved together, and have full confidence that Julia will bring fresh perspective and strong stewardship to guide Rouse through its next phase of growth. I look forward to supporting a smooth transition.”