Harris is vice chair of the global litigation department at international law firm Cooley. He advises governments, large corporates and high net worth individuals in complex commercial disputes.
Former Attorney-General Lord Goldsmith will step down at the end of 2020 after 12 years at the helm.
The Foundation is focusing its fundraising efforts on the Community Justice Fund, a joint initiative to help specialist social welfare legal advice organisations cope with the immediate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and lay the foundations for longer-term renewal.
Commenting on the appointment, CEO of the Foundation, Ruth Daniel, said: ‘This is an extremely challenging time for the legal advice sector, therefore Laurence’s knowledge, experience and leadership will be invaluable as we continue to manage the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.’