Ciara Cullen > RPC > London, England > Lawyer Profile

Noted for its ‘ability to navigate complex legal and regulatory issues’, RPC’s areas of expertise include IP disputes, global trade mark portfolio management, as well as recent involvement in copyright infringement claims. The team is particularly active in the retail, tech, media and sport sectors. Co-lead and ‘great strategist’ Jeremy Drew is well-versed in both contentious and non-contentious IP, and fellow co-head David Cran strengthens the team with his capabilities across a broad array of sectors, from telecoms to retail. ‘Highly pragmatic’ Ciara Cullen has represented various clients in disputes, with particular experience in the food and drink and retail arenas. ‘Hard-working and talented’ Ben Mark’s strengths lie in handling trade marks and passing off matters.

RPC offers pragmatic advice rooted in strong sector experience, with notable expertise in matters pertaining to tech and media, sport, and insurance. The firm has been engaged with substantial commercial projects over the past twelve months, including reviewing and updating company policies, counselling on master services agreements, and acting on sector-first partnerships, such as their advisory role for Saracens Rugby Club partnership with Socios that looks to bring tailored crypto-assets to fans. Furthermore, the team continues to establish itself as a leading player in the hospitality retail industry, adding the landmark brewing and distribution deal between Shepherd Neame and Boon Rawd to its matter portfolio. Department head Tom Purton‘s expertise ensures the group are sought out by established logistic corporates, and is known as a go-to for outsourcing arrangements. Paul Joukador is chiefly recognised for his supply chain arrangements, particularly in the retail sector, whilst Oliver Bray‘s broad practice attracts the interest of global tech giants – with regular support from Ciara Cullen. Charles Buckworth is highlighted for his excellence on financial services-related mandates, including finalising master services and framework agreements. Senior associate Eleanor Harley has also been active on a wide range of matters.

Fielding a ‘group with real sector expertise‘, RPC runs the gamut of contentious, advisory, and cross-border retail matters. The team is regularly instructed by clients from a broad range of industries, with an emphasis on the fashion and beauty, as well as the food and beverage sectors. Karen Hendy and Jeremy Drew jointly head up the practice; the former advises listed companies and their subsidiaries, with notable expertise in distressed purchases and acquisitions, while the latter is the key contact for multi-jurisdictional arbitrations, as well as for contentious and non-contentious intellectual property mandates. ‘Standout’ Ciara Cullen oversees the firm’s food and drink sub-group, and is an experienced intellectual property and technology specialist with a particular focus on sustainability, and consumer regulations and compliance. Simon Edwards is recommended for his commercial contract negotiation expertise. 2023 saw IP specialist Sarah Mountain and banking and finance specialist Edward Colville promoted to the partnership.