Summary: Eversheds Sutherland starts today as a new firm with global representation and top rankings in the UK, US and globally.
Starting today, Sutherland Asbill & Brennan and Eversheds are one. Their combination brings together over 2,300 lawyers working in 61 offices and 29 countries. There new numbers put the law firm in the top 10 in UK listings and top 40 in the U.S. and globally. The newly formed firm will be known as Eversheds Sutherland.
The announcement of their combination came mid-December with an overwhelming approval from their respective partners. The firms have since been working closely to further their goal to provide clients with innovation, quality, and consistency in their global legal services.
Eversheds Chief Executive Bryan Hughes said, “Establishing a truly global platform for our clients, including a strong presence in the U.S., has been our number one strategic priority. I am delighted that, with the creation of Eversheds Sutherland, that vision finally becomes a reality. Sutherland shares completely our approach to the creation of meaningful long term relationships with clients to deliver the very highest levels of service. We are very much looking forward to working together, collaborating as equal partners to create a new and powerful offering in the legal sector.”
Sutherland Managing Partner Mark Wasserman added, “We are grateful for the overwhelmingly positive response we have received from our clients, partners and staff about the bright future ahead for Eversheds Sutherland. The new relationship strengthens our core competencies and provides us the opportunity to expand our client services globally. Working together with our new colleagues worldwide, we are committed to delivering the benefits of this broadened international platform to our clients.”
Eversheds Sutherland will be directed by two CEOs among a six-strong global management team. Lee Ranson, Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP Managing Partner and CEO-Elect will act as joint CEO with Mark Wasserman.
Ranson said, “Since the partner vote, things have moved on apace which says a lot about the collaborative relationship that already exists between us. Our joint focus is clear – it’s all about client service both for existing arrangements and in enhancing our offering for those who could benefit. The reaction internally and externally so far could not have been better with the opportunities and work presented to us already sending us a clear message that our global platform and approach to quality, innovation and client service is highly compelling.”
The other members of the global management team include Keith Froud and Ian Gray from the International division and Victor Haley and Thomas Gick, to be replaced by Cynthis Krus in April from the U.S. division. There will also be a global Board of ten made up of equal representation from both firms.
To learn more about other law firm mergers, read these articles:
- 2016 Was a Strong Year for Law Firm Mergers & Acquisitions
- Crowell and Herrick Explore Merger Option
- Kaye Scholer and Arnold & Porter Announce Merger
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