Chris Wade > Osborne Clarke LLP > Bristol, England > Lawyer Profile

Osborne Clarke LLP is known for its varied workload pertaining to PPP and PFI projects in sectors such as student accommodation, telecommunications, and defence, while also being active in the energy space, where the firm advises on battery storage and EV charging infrastructure, amongst other matters. Chris Wade acts as practice head, providing support to clients in both the public and private sectors, including the health and care industries. Energy and utilities are key areas of expertise for Matthew Lewis, while David Ferris handles corporate matters, such as joint ventures and M&As, for energy clients. Another name to note is Simon Hancock, who is a go-to advisor on PPP and PFI work for entities active in defence, security, and aerospace.

Acting for a broad spectrum of universities, focusing on London, Reading and the South West, Osborne Clarke LLP’s higher education team advises on a range of issues, such as estates transformations, commercialisation, digital transformation and brand and partnerships. Additionally, the group is adept at handling employment and pensions matters, health and safety as well as compliance and regulatory matters. The team is headed by Chris Wade in Bristol who frequently handles procurement and infrastructure projects. Corporate expert Justin Starling is experienced in advising education clients in technology transfers; Mary Lawrence is well-versed in health and safety, particularly in the context of student mental health, while Jon Fell handles telecommunications and internet related matters.

Outside of its continued strength in the PFI/PPP sector, Osborne Clarke LLP has seen an uptick in project finance, development and commercial work relating to wider energy and infrastructure projects, working with both domestic and international clients. Bristol-based practice head Chris Wade is noted for his experience advising on both public and private sector work, and for his deep understanding of social infrastructure assets, particularly student accommodation. John Deacon’s expertise straddles renewable, conventional and digital infrastructure assets, advising on strategic investment and project development matters. Simon Hancock’s credentials in the defence, security and aerospace subsectors sees him instructed by both strategics and public bodies; he also has a strong body of work relating to PPP/PFI handbacks. Hannah Roscoe is a further name to note for financing, development and commercial work concerning greenfield projects, while Dominic O’Brien‘s financing focus encompasses both greenfield and brownfield transactions. Amy Dimond and Keir Pimblett also come recommended.