Ms Pauls divided her time between London and Munich at KWM and will join CC's Munich office, where she will work with the firm’s German funds team and its international private funds group, as well as taking responsibility for private equity funds in the corporate department.

Upheaval

She was one of KWM's biggest billing partners across Europe, with two decades' experience advising private equity houses and investment funds. Her exit comes as the firm faces upheaval in its UK, Europe and Middle East business after the exit of a number of heavy hitters and two redundancy consultations. It has also restructured its European operations, including implementing a capital call that saw partners pay in an extra £14m.

‘Fantastic news’

CC Germany managing partner Peter Dieners described the hire as ‘fantastic news’ for the firm that ‘will create a truly unique and outstanding funds practice, which dovetails perfectly with our national and global strategy.'

Ms Pauls is expected to begin at Clifford Chance in October.