Minter Ellison chief executive partner, John Weber, will not be seeking re-appointment to his position when his term expires at 30 June 2014, the firm has announced.

Minter Ellison has engaged Egon Zehnder to assist in a search for Weber's replacement and expects to be in a position to make an announcement in February next year.

"John foreshadowed this with me some time ago. Whilst we regret his decision, we respect his call that now is the time to embark on the next stage of his career,” said chairman Bruce Cowley.

"John has provided strong and very effective leadership to the firm over a period that has seen the legal market endure both the GFC and, more recently, significant structural change. During that time Minter Ellison has grown its revenue, its share of major work and its overall profitability."

 “I am proud to have led Minter Ellison for the past five years and wish all my colleagues every success in the future,” said Weber. "I am planning on having a portfolio of interests, including Board and related appointments.”