Travers Smith LLP > London, England > Firm Profile
Travers Smith LLP Offices

10 SNOW HILL
London
EC1A 2AL
England
Travers Smith LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Corporate and commercial > Commercial contracts Tier 1
Travers Smith LLP, praised for its ‘strong commercial sense‘, is frequently instructed by household-name clients, including leading fast food restaurant and coffee shop chains, to advise on international commercial contracts, including agreements in relation to companies’ international expansions. Significant areas of expertise include energy and payments infrastructure contracts, for which Richard Brown is a key name. Other standout practitioners include the ‘pragmatic, intelligent and client-focused‘ James Longster, and Ben Chivers, who specialises in the leisure and hospitality sectors. Former practice head Dan Reavill has left the firm.Other key lawyers:
Richard Brown; James Longster; Richard Offord; Ben Chivers
Testimonials
‘Richard Offord is sharp, intelligent and commercial, focused on providing practical advice tailored to the specific commercial context. James Longster is pragmatic, intelligent and client-focused.’
‘Advice is always practical and to the point. Lawyers are able to see the “big picture” and contextualise legal risk within the commercial reality of a deal/negotiation.’
‘Richard Brown stands out for his responsiveness and client focus.’
‘Very professional with a strong commercial sense. Gets the job done.’
‘The whole team is good at keeping the big picture in mind while not missing the important details.’
‘We have worked with Richard Brown. His ability to retain knowledge of previous transactions and contracts ensures they are able to move quickly when new requirements emerge.’
‘Richard Brown is the epitome of high-quality, experienced advice. Thinks quickly and effectively.’
‘This practice is unique whereby the team will push out all the stops in order to meet any deadlines and are only too happy to explain the technical terms or any exposures to you or your organisation in simple terms every party understands and have practical suitable solutions.’
Key clients
Volta Trucks
Shinfield Studios
Porsche
News UK
BUUK Infrastructure
Smart Meter Assets
British Standards Institute (BSI)
Zegona
Itsu
Avincis
Vitality
Quanex
Insurwave
Watergate Bay/Another Place
Formula 1
Conjecture
Nuffield Health
Oxford University
Target Group
Northleaf Capital
Work highlights
- Advising Zegona Communications plc on its proposed carve-out acquisition of Vodafone Spain for an enterprise value of €5.0bn, representing the largest carve-out ever concluded on the London Stock Exchange.
- Advised talkSPORT Limited, the News UK-owned, leading sports radio broadcaster on agreements with leading NFL clubs (the New York Jets and the Chicago Bears) for broadcasting rights of certain NFL games in the United Kingdom, including in relation to associated programming and advertising.
- Advising Itsu on key commercial arrangements (such as a licensing agreement containing complex IP provisions to protect the Itsu brand) in relation to its expansion into France (its first major international venture involving multiple sites).
Employment > Employee share schemes Tier 1
Travers Smith LLP has a strong reputation for its ‘deep expertise and pragmatic approach’, and high-profile takeover work. Varia has strong expertise advising both public and private companies on the incentive arrangement aspects of high-stakes takeovers, an area of specialism shared by ‘real expert in her field’ Elissavet Grout; Hugo Twigg frequently supports Varia and Grout on mandates. The team’s advisory capabilities are also noteworthy, and it is equipped to guide clients through the operation of existing and proposed incentives arrangements. Claire Prentice advises on employee and management incentives, executive remuneration and employment tax issues.Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team really seeks to work with the client as partner, rather than an arm’s-length adviser.’
‘Quality of associates is stellar; no shying away from giving good, real-time advice where they can.’
‘Deep expertise and a pragmatic approach. Very professional and diligent. They have a history of working with us and I trust them and their judgement.’
‘A well-balanced mix of listed share scheme clients and private equity-backed companies. Commercially-reasonable positions on complex issues. A friendly, diverse team.’
‘Elissavet Grout is a real expert in her field. Her advice is always highly commercial, with a great depth of understanding for our business and goals.’
‘A great team with considerable experience across share schemes – very pragmatic and commercial and works well with other teams advising the company.’
Key clients
Numis Corporation plc
Cavendish Financial plc
Ascential plc
Zegona Communications plc
Inflexion
Micro Focus plc
BaltCap
Blancco Technology Group plc
IK Partners
Integral Acquisition Corporation 1
Inmarsat Group Limited
Inflexion
The Wavenet Group
S4 Capital plc
Gamma Communications plc
Work highlights
- Advised a longstanding main market client on its €5bn acquisition of Vodafone Spain from Vodafone.
- Acted for longstanding client Ascential plc on the sale of its product design business, WGSN, to funds advised by Apax Partners LLP.
- Advised Micro Focus plc on the incentives related aspects of its £5.1bn takeover by Open Text Corporation.
Employment > Pensions (non-contentious) Tier 1
Advising across the full spectrum of defined benefit and defined contribution schemes, Travers Smith LLP’s pensions team is led by Susie Daykin, who oversees a broad practice handling work ranging from risk and liability management issues to investments, and governance issues. The practice also stands out for assisting with covenant work, defined contribution matters, including transfers to master trusts, and ESG-related mandates. Daykin is known for her expertise in de-risking transactions in particular, while ‘top-class all-round pensions expert’ Dan Naylor is another key name in this area, with notable knowledge of end game planning and pensions insurance. For governance issues, Daniel Gerring is a go-to name, while David James has experience acting for large occupation pension schemes. Other key names include ‘exceptional lawyer’ Andy Lewis, Niamh Hamlyn, and Chris Widdison.Practice head(s):
Susie Daykin
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Travers Smith provide a dedicated team of specialists who are thorough, articulate and pragmatic. They are mindful of client strategy whilst advising appropriately.’
‘David James goes even beyond the extra mile to make sure we get the attention we need. We are a small client for Travers Smith but we are always made to feel we are a very important client.’
‘The best pensions team in London.’
‘David James is the best pensions lawyer in London – smart, commercial and thoughtful.’
‘Daniel Gerring is a stand-out partner and lawyer. His knowledge of DB Pensions and regulation runs deep and broad. He is also an individual who offers exceptional advice always with a dose of pragmatism.’
‘Travers Smith have leading experts in this sector. They are deeply committed and very client focused.’
‘Attentiveness. Breath of knowledge and ability to communicate complex/technical information in such a way it can be understood by those with no knowledge of the topic.’
Key clients
AXA UK Group Pension Scheme
BAE Systems Pension Scheme
British Steel Pension Scheme
C&J Clark Pension Fund
Hanson Industrial Pension Scheme
Nest
Rothesay
Unilever UK Pension Fund
Vodafone Group Pension Scheme
ZF UK Pensions Trust Limited
Work highlights
- Advised the Trustees of BAE Systems Pensions Schemes on the outsourcing of the investment management of approximately £23bn of pension scheme assets to Goldman Sachs Asset Management (GSAM).
- Advised the British Steel Pension Scheme on the fourth £2.7bn buy-in transaction, taking total buy-ins to £7.5bn.
- Advised Rothesay on its £2.7bn buy-in of the Thales UK Pension Scheme, resulting in benefits being secured for over 16,000 members.
Risk advisory > Corporate governance Tier 1
Travers Smith LLP fields a ‘highly respected team with exceptional depth and experience’. The firm has dedicated specialists for listed company advisory, contentious risk management, anti-corruption and ESG matters. Neal Watson and Aisling Arthur jointly oversee the practice; Watson’s broad offering encompasses corporate governance regulation, reporting requirements, directors’ duties, reputation protections and listing rules, while Arthur specialises in shareholder activism and market abuse issues. Simon Witney focuses his practice on regulatory, transactional and fund formation work. Laura Smyth is also a name to note.Practice head(s):
Neal Watson; Aisling Arthur
Other key lawyers:
Simon Witney; Jon Reddington; Laura Smyth; Klementyna Zastawniak
Testimonials
‘The team at Travers Smith is highly responsive, knowledgeable and professional. The most obscure of queries is dealt with quickly and efficiently, and it is clear that the team have a huge breadth of knowledge and experience. I like the fact that the advice is practical, giving examples of other companies’ disclosures, best practice, common themes and market intelligence.’
‘Aisling Arthur and Klem Zastawniak are approachable, hugely knowledgeable and always respond within timescales, despite sometimes being extremely tight. Their advice is well researched and practical and within scope. I have complete confidence in them and their ability to deal with whatever query or matter I send their way.’
‘The team have outstanding technical knowledge in this area and a great sense of what current market practice is. They proactively update us on relevant developments and have supported us with bespoke training throughout the year. The team are always responsive and a real pleasure to work with.’
‘Aisling Arthur is outstanding. She has a real understanding of our business and always provides highly commercial advice.’
‘A highly respected team with exceptional depth and experience. By acting for a range of enterprises and not just “mega-corporations”, Travers remains accessible to mid- and small-cap companies without compromising on the quality of advice.’
Key clients
Advent Ltd
Nomura
SSP Group plc
Hostelworld Group plc
Noble Corporation plc
Camellia plc
S4 Capital plc
Porvair plc
Smithson Investment Trust plc
Safestore Holdings plc
Mears Group Plc
Breedon Group plc
Shepherd Neame Limited
Pets at Home Group plc
Auction Technology Group plc
Cavendish Financial plc
Distribution Finance Capital Holdings plc
Work highlights
- Advised Bytes Technology Group plc on a corporate governance investigation arising from a director failing to disclose a dealing by her husband.
Corporate and commercial > Equity capital markets – small-mid cap Tier 2
The ‘very strong practice’ at Travers Smith LLP stands out for the depth and strength of its client relationships with UK investment banks, whom it advises as sponsors and underwriters on both IPOs and secondary fundraisings, and it also regularly advises a solid roster of AIM clients in a range of sectors on equity issues. Integrated US securities expertise further allows the team to handle private placements in the US and advise its clients on the US regulatory aspects of international transactions. Corporate expert Spencer SummerfieldPractice head(s):
Spencer Summerfield; Adrian West
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very strong practice across a number of sectors and products.’
‘Adrian West is a great operator, unflustered and very commercial.’
‘Exceptionally knowledgeable and able to give quick, effective support and guidance. A trusted partner to the business guiding on strategic matters.’
‘Adrian West is a standout in terms of his knowledge and applicability – we are lucky to have him in our corner.’
Work highlights
- Advised Volex plc on a £60 million cashbox placing, REX retail offer, and amended debt financing in connection with the proposed €178.1 million acquisition of Murat Ticaret Kablo Sanayi A.Ş., a Turkey-headquartered leading manufacturer of complex wire harnesses.
- Advised on a placing and open offer for long-standing client TruFin to fund the development of the Mortal Shell gaming franchise.
Corporate and commercial > Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory Tier 2
The ‘thoughtful, responsive and practical’ team at Travers Smith LLP counts asset managers and private equity houses, as well as investment banks, hedge and credit funds, payment and e-money institutions among its key roster of clients. Tim Lewis leads the practice, with other key contacts including Phil Bartram, Michael Raymond and Natalie Lewis. Mark EvansPractice head(s):
Tim Lewis
Other key lawyers:
Phil Bartram; Michael Raymond; Natalie Lewis; Mark Evans; Danny Riding; Henriika Hara; Samuel Brewer
Testimonials
‘Samuel Brewer is practical and commercial.’
‘Both Phil Bartram and Henriika Hara are our trusted advisers. They are there to help when needed.’
‘The team at Travers Smith are wonderful; thoughtful, responsive and practical.’
‘Michael Raymond is an excellent attorney; extremely responsive, practical in his advice and business minded.’
‘Great team with a deep understanding of our business and structures.’
‘Phil Bartram and Danny Riding are top-quality advisers.’
‘Responsive and easy to contact. It’s a pleasure to work with the team and I find their advice commercial and pragmatic.’
‘They are grounded and understand the business.’
Key clients
Ares
ICG
Brookfield Oaktree Wealth Solutions
Equistone
Clipway
Pay.UK
RTGS.global
Natwest Group
CLS Bank International
Euroclear UK & International
Work highlights
- Advising Pay.UK on the design and implementation of the New Payments Architecture.
- Advised Clipway on its establishment as a new global GP and strategic investment from Carmignac and General Atlantic.
- Appointed by NatWest Group to conduct an independent investigation into bank account closures by Coutts.
Corporate and commercial > Private equity: transactions - mid-market deals (up to £500m) Tier 2
Work highlights
Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: civil Tier 2
Fielding ‘one of the best litigation departments in the City’, Travers Smith LLP has a broad practice covering investigations, corporate fraud, asset tracing and urgent relief. A large proportion of the firm’s disputes contain cross-border features and involve working alongside lawyers in other jurisdictions. In 2024, experienced commercial litigator Heather Gagen was appointed as dispute resolution department head; Rob Fell‘s recent experience includes representing a commercial bank facing alleged conspiracy claims; and investigations group co-head Toby Robinson assists clients with FCA enforcement actions. The group further comprises Huw Jenkin, whose wide-ranging commercial disputes practice encompasses civil fraud-related cases; civil fraud and asset tracing specialist Stephanie Lee; ‘first-class litigator’ Jan-Jaap Baer; and Alexa Day, who acts in high-value and multi-jurisdictional disputes. The next line of key practitioners includes Polly Richard and Alice Childs, who both assist with matters involving fraud allegations, while John Lee is a ‘first-rate lawyer in the crypto area’.Practice head(s):
Heather Gagen
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A truly outstanding group, handling mammoth cases with real flair and a very special firm culture.’
‘This is one of the best litigation departments in the City. Brilliant lawyers with technical expertise and commercial nous – always delivering the best for their clients.’
‘Travers Smith regularly punch well above their weight. They regularly feature in the very largest litigation, going head to head with Magic Circle firms. They have a stellar reputation – a class outfit.’
‘Rob Fell is a commanding, confidence-inspiring team leader and superb with clients.’
‘Toby Robinson is a very safe pair of hands indeed.’
‘John Lee is a first-rate lawyer in the crypto area.’
‘Jan-Jaap Baer is a first-class litigator – tremendously smart and very detailed in his thinking.’
‘Stephanie Lee is superb – incisive and effective.’
Key clients
Hewlett Packard Enterprise
Work highlights
- Acting for Hewlett Packard Enterprise in relation to $4bn fraud claims, with parallel criminal proceedings in the US (arising out of the 2011 $11bn acquisition of Autonomy Corporation).
- Acting for a foreign exchange broker in relation to fraud allegations brought against it.
- Defending section 90 FSMA securities claims which were brought by institutional investors against Glencore (and certain of its former officers) in relation to alleged misstatements and omissions in Glencore’s IPO prospectus.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: premium Tier 2
Travers Smith LLP is active in key areas of the dispute resolution market, from crypto disputes and class actions to parent company liability cases. The tea, which ‘punches well above its weight’, coordinates with the firm’s transactional and regulatory practices to provide a full-service commercial litigation offering. ‘Star litigator’ Heather Gagen became head of the dispute resolution team in January 2024, taking over from Rob Fell, who continues to handle contractual and tort disputes and investigations. Caroline Edwards focuses on financial services and corporate clients, while Huw Jenkin plays a key role in litigation related to corporate transactions and commercial agreements. From post-M&A disputes to fraud claims, Stephanie Lee boasts a broad domestic and international commercial disputes practice. Alexa Day is active in multijurisdictional litigation, and Alice Childs’ practice spans shareholder and commercial disputes and breach of warranty claims. John Lee specialises in disputes related to cryptoassets, blockchain and smart contract technologies. Andrew King retired in 2023.Practice head(s):
Heather Gagen
Other key lawyers:
Rob Fell; Caroline Edwards; Huw Jenkin; Stephanie Lee; Alexa Day; Alice Childs; John Lee; Toby Robinson; Jan-Jaap Baer; Polly Richard; Barney Stannard; Jospeh Moore
Testimonials
‘The Travers Smith commercial dispute resolution practice punches well above its weight. The team is stacked with outstanding litigators whose attention to detail is second to none. They are all devoted to their clients and their cases whilst remaining wonderful people to work with. ’
‘Huw Jenkin – a fantastic lawyer, hugely able and with a work ethic that cannot be surpassed. His dedication is legendary, and he remains an extremely easy person to work with. Quite brilliant. You would always want him in your corner. Alexa Day – a very bright and able lawyer who has a keen eye for detail and is excellent with clients. Jan-Jaap Baer – intelligent and charming, he can work with anyone, and will never let a good point pass him by.’
‘Stephanie Lee is a star. She’s knowledgeable and is very good with working both with other lawyers and with business executives.’
‘I consider Travers Smith litigators to be some of the best litigators in the market. They combine legal expertise, commercial nous; creativity, and are the consummate team players, making everyone feel valued and achieving great results for their clients.’
‘Heather Gagen is a total star litigator, who is already a big name in the market but will go far. She is razor sharp, steely when needed, commands the total confidence of her clients and a complete delight to work with. There is no one better. Other star partners are Alice Childs (unparalleled commitment to her clients), Polly Richards, Stephanie Lee and Caroline Edwards. The department is crammed full of brilliant female partners. But excellent male litigators too – Rob Fell and John Lee being 2 of them. ’
‘Caroline Edwards and Rob Fell are undisputed leaders, each deserving of their places in the Hall of Fame. Under the capable leadership of Heather Gagen, the Commercial litigation team continues to flourish. With her expanded role encompassing both Head of Disputes and ESG, Heather’s impact on the firm’s success is undeniable. We have worked extensively with Alexa Day and feel that she very much deserves her ranking as a Next Generation Partner. We have also worked with Polly Richard who is not yet ranked, but we feel should be for her ability to deal with the most complex and high value commercial disputes with skill and precision. Collectively, the team demonstrates an unwavering commitment to excellence in Commercial litigation and are a pleasure to work with.’
‘Heather Gagen has substantial experience in ESG-related litigation. Her leadership is felt all over the firm. Stephanie Lee, Partner is an experienced commercial litigator who goes out of her way to make sure clients are looked after. Alice Childs, partner dispute resolution is often in engaged in parental company liability disputes and knows her stuff.’
‘John Lee is an exceptional partner – highly intelligent, hard-working, calm, measured and practical, with excellent client-handling skills, even with the most difficult clients. He is more involved and hands on than most partners and certainly one to watch.’
Work highlights
- Representing Hewlett-Packard group companies, the claimants in proceedings arising out of HP’s $11bn acquisition of Autonomy Corporation plc in 2011.
- Acting for European truck manufacturer, DAF Trucks, defending multiple damages claims brought before the English courts (both as individual claims and as collective proceedings) arising from the European Commission’s Trucks decision.
- Defended two separate sets of proceedings against Camellia plc and two of its English subsidiaries by groups of individual claimants involving parent company liability claims concerning alleged human rights abuses in the operations of two overseas subsidiaries of the Camellia group in Kenya and Malawi respectively.
Dispute resolution > Competition litigation Tier 2
In recent months, Travers Smith LLP has undertaken a significant volume of high-profile competition damages litigation, advising clients across the financial services, automotive, technology, and shipping industries, among others. Caroline Edwards has extensive experience litigating multijurisdictional cases in the CAT and the appeal courts. 'Sharp, straight to the point, and very responsive', Nigel Seay is noted for his EU and UK merger control and antitrust investigations expertise. Stephen Whitfield maintains a diverse practice working with clients from a litany of industries, while Huw Jenkin notably advises on a number of individual and collective claims, including contested certification applications. Both Barney Stannard and Joseph Moore are capable of assisting with challenging class action cases, while Ingrid Hodgskiss‘ competition damages focus is strengthened by her previous experience at the CMA.Practice head(s):
Nigel Seay; Caroline Edwards
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Travers Smith is simply outstanding in this space. Their innovative and strategic brilliance in this sector was underlined by the epic victory the firm achieved in the Supreme Court in the leapfrog appeal to the Supreme Court in the Trucks litigation (the PACCAR appeal), which rocked the litigation funding sector.’
‘Huw Jenkin is a fabulous competition lawyer and one of the City of London’s outstanding litigators. He has incredible client care skills and strategic vision coupled with a sophisticated legal brain.’
‘Super-smooth, Caroline Edwards is an enormously experienced litigator who brings a unique perspective to competition litigation with highly sophisticated analysis and strategic vision. She has unparalleled knowledge of the market and clients adore her.’
‘Huw Jenkin is intelligent, great to work with, sees the bigger picture. Caroline Edwards is intelligent, great to work with, pragmatic and commercial. Joseph Moore is intelligent, great to work with, and has an excellent command of the detail.’
‘Very good in competition litigation, thoughtful and proactive.’
‘Nigel Seay is sharp, straight to the point, and very responsive.’
‘Ingrid Hodgkiss is easy to work with, pragmatic, and collegiate.’
Key clients
DAF Trucks
Wallenius Wilhelmsen
Toyoda Gosei
Nomura International
Sports Direct
Schott Glass
Innolux Corporation
Small World Financial Services
Work highlights
- Advising Nomura on its application to the EU General Court for annulment of the European Commission’s Decision.
- Acting for a European truck manufacturer in defence of multiple damages claims brought before the English courts arising from the European Commission’s Trucks decision.
- Issuing proceedings against Newcastle United alleging abuse of dominance.
Employment > Employers Tier 2
Travers Smith LLP is lauded for its ability to ‘come up with practical, cost-effective solutions to thorny legal problems that stump other firms’. In addition to advising on the people aspects of substantial corporate transactions, it is increasingly sought after by clients to advise on, or to conduct, highly sensitive and complex internal investigations. With Tim Gilbert at the helm, it has acted on significant litigation in both the Employment Tribunal and the High Court. A number of its matters have a cross-border component. Ed Mills has particular expertise in advising on and conducting whistleblowing and other complex investigations. Siân Keall, Adam Wyman and Ailie Murray are highly recommended.Practice head(s):
Tim Gilbert
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The work that I have done with Travers Smith has predominantly been in relation to investigations conducted on behalf of employers, particularly in the financial services industry. Ed Mills is a supremo in this field. He has impeccable judgment and is highly sensitive to clients’ needs.’
‘Ailie Murray and Tim Gilbert are superstars in the employment law space. They are both extremely responsive and practical in their approaches to legal problems, and distil complex legal advice into proposed solutions that are easy for business colleagues to digest and act upon.’
‘Siân Keall: an excellent lawyer and adviser to our business. She understands us as a client, is unafraid to challenge and give unpopular advice, and is really thoughtful in her counsel. We have a strong relationship with Travers’ employment team, through Siân.’
‘Siân Keall and Ailie Murray are wonderful partners – I recommend them all the time without hesitation. They embody all that is great about the practice as a whole.’
‘Siân Keall is the best employment partner I have worked with across many different firms, she delivers clear advice, isn’t afraid to explain why your reaction is the wrong one and never loses sight of the big picture.’
‘Great commercial acumen and excellent communication skills. Always ready to find the most cost-effective and efficient solution for the clients. Ed Mills – proactive and commercially astute. Siân Keall – thought leader. Tim Gilbert – extremely insightful. Adam Wyman – very competent.’
‘Adam Wyman is a pleasure to work with. He has an in depth understanding of our business and has expertly provided advice direct to senior stakeholders. He always maintains a calm, caring and commercial approach.’
‘Ed Mills is “on it”. As his client, he inspires confidence that the advice you receive is excellent and well thought through, both legally and practically. He is always available, but has an outstanding team around him.’
Key clients
AIG
Ambassador Theatre Group
Aon
David Lloyd
EQT
Foxtons
Groupon
Love Holidays
M&G PLC
OpenText
Pets at Home
Pfizer Inc
Rede Partners LLP
Royal Bank of Canada
Telstra
Western Union
Work highlights
- Conducting an independent investigation for NatWest Group plc into bank account closures by Coutts.
- Advising Access Group on a wide range of employment law matters, many of which are multi-jurisdictional in nature, including complex grievance and disciplinary issues, whistleblowing matters, global restructures and global mobility issues.
- Advising Inflexion Partnership Capital Fund on the employment aspects of Inflexion’s purchase of a minority stake in the Healthcare division of GlobalData Plc, including a pre-sale reorganisation involving employees in 12 jurisdictions (including the UK).
Finance > Derivatives and structured products Tier 2
Travers Smith LLP focuses predominantly on buy-side derivatives, and is a go-to adviser to alternative asset managers and pension funds. A growing proportion of the firm’s work is for large investment banks, which seek out its expertise in private capital and pension fund matters. Practice head Jonathan Gilmour is ‘technically very sound, provides clear advice.’ Gilmour works with emerging talent Joseph Wren, who has ‘great organisational and negotiations skills‘, to advise the trustees of a £23bn pension scheme. The ‘solution-focused, pragmatic, highly engaged‘ Nicholas Baines and Sana Dossa are widely regarded as the future of the practice.Practice head(s):
Jonathan Gilmour
Other key lawyers:
Joseph Wren; Pater Hughes; Nicholas Baines; Sana Dossa; Elinor Samuel
Testimonials
‘The derivatives team at Travers Smith is a pleasure to work with. We worked with them on multiple FX solutions and each time received exceptional service. The team is clearly very knowledgeable and have the ability to translate complex legal and regulatory frameworks into easily digestible language.’
‘Jonathan Gilmour is very responsive and available. Technically very sound, provides clear advice. Elinor Samuel is responsive and thorough. Provides strong associate support.’
‘Last year, Travers Smith assisted us with a complex structured product transaction. We appreciated their professionalism, deep understanding of products and market practices, as well as their ability to assist swiftly and provide the highest quality legal documentation that we can always fully rely on.’
‘We very much enjoyed working together with Joseph Wren. His professionalism, great organisational and negotiations skills, as well as a deep knowledge of financial products are truly remarkable.’
‘Very collaborative, become part of the team. Specialist skills, the very best in their field.’
‘Attention to detail, excellent communication at all times, very sensitive to the needs of the client. Jonathan Gilmour is very approachable, highly responsive, a true expert in his field, highly professional, and a pleasure to work with.’
‘I always enjoy working with Joseph Wren and the team – they are highly professional, responsive, and I always feel like I’m in “safe hands” – the team is very commercial and able to give good advice on whether to push points or accept, based on terms our peer firms have and what we can reasonably expect.’
‘Joseph Wren and Nick Baines are both fantastic to work with. They are both highly commercial, flexible, and have helped me get some very last minute things over the line in a very short timeframe.’
Key clients
Allianz Global Investors
AXA UK Pension Trustees Limited
BAE Systems Pension Fund Trustees
BESTrustees Limited as trustee of the ZF UK Pension Plan
Bittrex Global GmbH
Bridgepoint Group plc
Cinven Limited
Hanover Investors Management LLP
Inflexion
International Business Machines Corporation
Pemberton
Rothesay Life
Trustee of the British Steel Pension Scheme
Vitruvian Partners
Work highlights
- Advised the British Steel Pension Scheme on a £2.7bn buy-in, taking total buy-ins to £7.5bn and making it the largest pension scheme to reach full insurance.
- Advised the Trustees of BAE Systems Pensions Schemes on the outsourcing of the investment management of approximately £23bn of pension scheme assets to Goldman Sachs Asset Management (GSAM).
- Advised Inflexion Private Equity Partners LLP on various deal-contingent and interest rate hedging arrangements in respect of the acquisition of portfolio companies by funds managed by Inflexion.
Investment fund formation and management > Listed funds Tier 2
Work highlights
Real estate > Environment Tier 2
The environment and climate team at Travers Smith LLP, co-chaired by John Buttanshaw and Sarah-Jane Denton, advises a range of major clients across the environmental space. The group's advice ranges from environmental risk associated with global infrastructure, to compliance issues associated with packaging and deforestation, and also has particular expertise in regulatory issues surrounding energy and infrastructure projects. Buttanshaw boasts particular expertise in the energy and infrastructure sector, advising on nuclear, offshore wind, biogas, and solar project-driven mandates. Fellow practice head Denton assists clients with environmental matters both in support of transactions and related to compliance, advising on consenting, contamination and chemicals, among other work types.Practice head(s):
Sarah-Jane Denton; John Buttanshaw
Other key lawyers:
Alex MacBean; Harrie Narain
Key clients
KFC
Facebook/Meta
Various asset managers
Cravath (for ultimate clients IFF and Amentum)
Ancala Partners LLP
Inflexion
DIF Capital Partners
Work highlights
- Advised Meta on environmental risks associated with its global fibre infrastructure development.
- Advised various major asset managers on compliance with UK carbon regimes, including the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme and Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting.
- Advised Amentum on UK environmental aspects of its merger with the Jacobs Critical Mission Solutions nuclear business.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Fintech: regulatory Tier 2
The ‘strong grasp of crypto and digital asset regulation’ at Travers Smith LLP is brought to bear on a host of mandates. The unit is additionally well regarded for its expertise in financial market infrastructures, securities trading and wholesale and retail payments. Natalie Lewis' far-reaching practice spans cross-border payments systems and contractual arrangements for digital asset platforms, while Mark EvansPractice head(s):
Natalie Lewis
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A strong grasp of crypto and digital asset regulation and policy which is invaluable to our organisation.’
‘Natalie Lewis – very adept at the legal matters, but they are also very engaging and warm, and are quick to put one at ease. Their insights on recent matters we brought to them reflected both a legal expertise and a graciousness in assisting us in a timely and thorough manner.’
‘John Lee and James Turner are valuable contributors to the work of our trade association and provide regulatory support and clarity to our industry.’
‘The team is well versed in the specific areas of concern to us – namely, emerging technologies and innovations that require a quick learning curve at times, and a fast turnaround on answers whilst not sacrificing quality in their responses. We have found the team very well-attuned to and competent in both the technicalities and the fast pace of our areas of interest. ’
‘The individuals are very adept at the legal matters, but they are also very engaging and warm, and are quick to put one at ease. Their insights on recent matters we brought to them reflected both a legal expertise and a graciousness in assisting us in a timely and thorough manner.’
Key clients
Pay.UK
RTGS.global
Euroclear UK and International
Copper
Work highlights
- Advising Pay.UK on the design and implementation of the New Payments Architecture.
- Advising RTGS.global on the design of a new cross-border payment system.
- Advising Copper on various innovative mandates.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax Tier 3
Corporate and commercial > Equity capital markets: mid-large cap Tier 3
With activities spanning the Main Market and AIM of the London Stock Exchange as well as international exchanges, Travers Smith LLP is well-placed to advise issuers, plc clients, and investment funds on a diverse array of middle-market equity transactions, including IPOs and secondary fundraises, relistings, de-SPAC transactions, and equity transfers. Corporate finance expert Spencer SummerfieldPractice head(s):
Spencer Summerfield; Adrian West
Other key lawyers:
Andrew Gillen; Tom Coulter; Jon Reddington; Dan McNamee; Mohammed Senouci
Key clients
Assura plc
Auction Technology Group plc
Breedon plc
CLS Holdings plc
Conduit Re plc
Foresight Group plc
Fresnillo plc
Hostelworld Group plc
IK Partners
Inflexion
Integral Acquisition Corporation 1
Liberum
Lifezone Metals
Marwyn Acquisition Company
McColl’s Retail plc
Mears Group plc
Numis Corporation plc
Pets at Home Group plc
Porvair plc
Robert Walters plc
S4 Capital plc
SSP plc
Safestore Holdings plc
Zegona Communications plc
Work highlights
- Advised Breedon on its move from AIM to Main Market.
- Advised Zegona Communications on its equity fundraise of €300 million to fund its proposed acquisition of Vodafone Spain for an enterprise value of €5 billion.
Corporate and commercial > Financial services: contentious Tier 3
Leveraging a ‘winning combination of experience, ability and client engagement’, Travers Smith LLP‘s cross-practice group, which fuses together its financial services and markets and commercial litigation offerings, provides ‘commercial advice’ to banks, brokers and fund managers, inter alia. Rob Fell has, over the years, been involved in many high-profile internal and regulatory investigations. Toby Robinson is a ‘tough and respected litigator with excellent judgement’, which endears him to banking clients facing enforcement action brought by the FCA, including with regard to market abuse. Stephanie Lee is also recommended. Heather Gagen heads the team.Practice head(s):
Heather Gagen
Other key lawyers:
Rob Fell; Caroline Edwards; Toby Robinson; Stephanie Lee; Tim Lewis; Phil Bartram; Michael Raymond; Polly Richard; Danny Riding; Sam Brewer; Alice Childs
Testimonials
‘A state-of-the-art law firm providing commercial advice within financial services.’
‘A winning combination of experience, ability and client engagement. They know their stuff, but also make working with them an enjoyable and collegiate experience.’
‘Danny Riding and Phil Bartram are both exceptionally good at providing hands-on, commercial advice. They know our business very well and have for a very long time and is therefore very good at putting the question into context. ’
‘Toby Robinson is smart, pragmatic and engaging and has great client management skills.’
‘Toby Robinson is a tremendously experienced, clever, tough and respected litigator with excellent judgement.’
‘Excellent, high-quality team that superbly conducts difficult, complex, international investigations with care, thought, determination and commercial nous.’
Key clients
NatWest Group
Sadeq Sayeed
Nomura International plc
Work highlights
- Commissioned by the NatWest Group to produce three separate reports into bank account closures by Coutts.
- Advising the former CEO of Nomura International plc in relation to (i) criminal proceedings brought in Italy against him, the Italian Bank Monte dei Paschi di Siena, Nomura, Deutsche Bank, and certain other individuals from the three banks for false accounting, market manipulation and obstruction of a regulator in respect of complex derivative trades entered into between Nomura International plc and Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena in 2009; and (ii) regulatory proceedings that have been brought in Italy in relation to the same derivative trades.
- Advising Nomura on its application to the EU General Court for annulment of the European Commission’s decision finding anti-competitive behaviour in the primary and secondary European Government Bond markets.
Investment fund formation and management > Fund finance Tier 3
Lender-side expertise is a hallmark of Travers Smith LLP’s fund finance practice, which continues to act for a number of prominent financial institutions. Noted for his capabilities across various asset classes and strategies, active lenders regularly turn to Danny Peel for work concerning subscription, co-investment, NAV, and hybrid facilities. With a particularly established lender-side practice, Charles Bischoff‘s portfolio of work covers a range of highly structured transactions and financings. Laura Smith advises sponsors and borrowers on the full range of fund finance products, including NAV and co-investment facilities. Katie McMenamin left the practice for Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP in 2024.Practice head(s):
Charlie Bischoff; Danny Peel
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Danny Peel is commercial and pragmatic and hugely helpful in negotiating favourable terms with our lenders.’
‘Incredible mid-market funds practice and understanding of what mid-market PE needs, and how that can be delivered across the different strands of their practice. Good understanding of what we needed to be done, and how that fitted into the wider picture.’
‘Personal service, partner involvement, clear arguments on key points.’
‘The team has always proven to be up-to-date on market changes and innovations.’
‘Travers Smith are experts in our sector, so we receive the very best advice combined with sensible commerciality. They are highly responsive and always on hand to answer complex queries or basic questions.’
‘Danny Peel is hugely experienced in subscription line finance and I have worked closely with him for over 15 years. Danny always ensures that our risks are fully covered whilst still displaying a commercial attitude that also ensures we remain competitive in our market. Danny is also backed by an experienced team.’
Key clients
Investec Bank
RBSI
NatWest
Lloyds Bank
Santander
First Abu Dhabi Bank
MUFG
ING
HSBC Investment Bank
Wells Fargo
Work highlights
Projects, energy and natural resources > Infrastructure: M&A and acquisition financing Tier 3
Advising a wide range of industry players and infrastructure-focused funds, Travers Smith LLP continues to be an active presence in the market, handling key net zero mandates in the UK as well as large-scale acquisitions overseas – particularly in the digital infrastructure space. Head of corporate Spencer SummerfieldPractice head(s):
Spencer Summerfield
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team have good embedded knowledge of our business and the way we approach risk and acceptable contract terms. Always highly focused, brief and to the point communications, and commercially able to put themselves into the clients shoes. Very easy to work with.’
Key clients
Ancala Partners
Macquarie Capital Principal Finance
Zegona Communications plc
Arjun Infrastructure
DIF Capital Partners
Basalt Infrastructure
Lifezone Metals
Wavenet Group
ProA Capital
Foresight Infrastructure
Alcazar Energy Partners
BUUK Infrastructure
Smart Meter Assets
Swisscom
Affinitas Education
InstaVolt
Northleaf Capital Partners
Peel Group
Work highlights
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 3
Digital transformation projects, FinTech matters, and licensing arrangements remain a cornerstone of the practice at Travers Smith LLP. Dan Reavill leads the team and is well-versed in the exploitation and protection of data, intellectual property, and technology, while Louisa Chambers is skilled at privacy compliance and system implementations. James Longster is proficient in GDPR, IT outsourcing, as well as copyright, and Sarah Robinson is knowledgeable of IT implementation projects.Practice head(s):
Dan Reavill
Other key lawyers:
Louisa Chambers; James Longster; Sarah Robinson; Rosie Westley
Testimonials
‘James Longster and the team are very quick to respond, they give you very sound and solid legal advice.’
‘James Longster offers solutions, and follows up when asked. He does a great job of making the client feel special.’
‘Louisa Chambers is brilliant to work with, she really knows her stuff, and always manages to be friendly and down to earth.’
Key clients
Samsung Electronics (UK) Limited
Palisade Financial
Phoenix Group
ExR Solutions
Matterport
Volta Trucks
RTGS
Mediatel Audiotrack
Fundsmith
Bridgepoint Advisers Limited
Paymentsense
ZPG
Micro Focus International plc (“Micro Focus”)
The Access Group (“Access”)
Monzo
Ethos Group
Ambassador Theatre Group (“ATG”)
Flashtalking
Love Holidays
Caffè Nero
Pay.UK
Hobbycraft
Target Group
Ascential
Sportlight Technologies
CitNOW
Rathbones
Poundland Pepco
Ohme
Robin AI
Jensten
ABI
Moto Caddy
Marks Electrical
MNK Re
Colesco
Work highlights
- Advising Samsung Electronics (UK) on the data-sharing obligations presented by the EU Data Act and compliance relating to their vast range of connected products.
- Advising Pay.UK on the drafting and negotiation of contract documentation relating to the New Payments Architecture (NPA) implementation.
- Advising CitNOW on the negotiation of a Partner Programme Agreement key to providing an enhanced experience and functionality for customers.
Risk advisory > ESG Tier 3
Travers Smith LLP‘s ‘top-notch practice’ spans global compliance mandates, preventative counselling on ESG risk issues and ESG-related litigation. Heather Gagen leads the team and, alongside fellow disputes partner Stephanie Lee, is noted in the market for her prowess in handling parent company liability claims. Simon Witney is frequently instructed on corporate governance and company law cases that have an ESG component. Derivatives expert Jonathan Gilmour is well-versed in voluntary carbon markets, while Neal Watson is a key contact for listed company corporate advisory work.Practice head(s):
Heather Gagen
Other key lawyers:
Simon Witney; Stephanie Lee; Michael Raymond; Jonathan Gilmour; Neal Watson; Ailie Murray
Testimonials
‘Expert knowledge of existing laws, both regulations and case laws, practices and key gaps and issues to address. Great expertise with industry and ability to explain complex issues succintly and clearly. ’
‘I worked mostly with Jonathan Gilmour and Simon Whitney, who provided excellent input for our work, reviewing technical documents and supporting the dissemination of our key findings in their spare time. Despite not being a client, they always responded to me in a timely and helpful manner, and the quality of their work has been hugely appreciated.’
‘A top-notch practice and one we go to for pragmatic, market-enabled advice on ESG regulatory matters. We have complete faith that the team’s highly commercial approach to delivering advice is grounded in excellent technical knowledge. ’
‘Michael Raymond is highly responsive and has a finely-tuned radar for the practical solutions clients need to complex ESG regulatory issues.’
Key clients
KFC
UN-supported Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI)
Alcazar Energy Partners
Downing LLP
Various LSE-listed clients
Insurance firm
FTSE250 household name retailer
Camellia plc
Work highlights
- Advising KFC on managing a range of environmental and climate risks across its major European businesses.
- Led the defence and subsequent settlement of two separate sets of proceedings against Camellia plc and two of its English subsidiaries by groups of individual claimants involving novel “parent company liability” claims concerning alleged human rights abuses in the operations of two overseas subsidiaries of the Camellia group in Kenya and Malawi.
- Carried out an investigation for a FTSE250 household name retailer into whistleblowing allegations concerning bullying behaviour made against a senior executive.
Corporate and commercial > EU and competition Tier 4
Described as ‘simply outstanding’, the team at Travers Smith LLP handles a broad spectrum of competition law issues, including merger control, FDI clearances, and behavioural and cartel investigations. Practice head Nigel Seay brings extensive experience in securing EU, UK, and international merger control clearances across a range of sectors. The ‘technically excellent’ Stephen Whitfield has a broad practice focus, advising on competition issues in the technology, financial services, life sciences, and media sectors. Senior counsel Ingrid Hodgskiss is praised for her ‘deep understanding of competition law’ and ability to ‘deliver outstanding legal advice while keeping commercial aspects in focus.’Practice head(s):
Nigel Seay
Other key lawyers:
Stephen Whitfield; Ingrid Hodgskiss; Richard J Brown; Thomas Davies
Testimonials
‘A very approachable, knowledgeable team who show genuine interest in the industry we operate in.’
‘Tom Davies is very responsive and displays a commercial and pragmatic approach. Stephen Whitfield is also available to share his experience and knowledge whenever needed.’
‘Excellent legal advice, team members are always responsive, delivering reliable solutions quickly.’
‘We have worked with Stephen Whitfield and Ingrid Hodgskiss – both have a deep understanding of competition law and deliver outstanding legal advice while keeping commercial aspects in focus. Both are very approachable and always available, very uncomplicated and pleasant to work with.’
‘Stephen Whitfield is very commercial and really good at balancing short and long term priorities to work out the best overall advice for the client. Ingrid Hodgskiss has incredibly impressive knowledge.’
‘The quality of the team is first rate across the board. Technically excellent but also commercial, pragmatic, and personable.’
‘Stephen Whitfield is technically excellent but also commercial, pragmatic, and personable.’
‘Travers Smith are simply outstanding in this space.’
Key clients
The Access Group
SSP Group plc
Numis Corporation plc
Intermediate Capital Group plc
The EMIS Group plc
Krauss-Maffei Wegmann
Nomura International plc
Peel Group
S4 Capital plc
Inflexion Partners LLP
BOC Limited
Zegona Communications plc
Flight Centre Travel Group
Ancala Partners LLP
Equistone Partners Europe
Association of British Insurers (ABI)
Macquarie Group
Bridgepoint plc
BUUK Infrastructure
AlphaSigma S.p.A
Small World Financial Services Limited
Work highlights
- Advised EMIS in respect of its acquisition by UnitedHealth Group.
- Advising investment bank Nomura on its defence before the European Commission and subsequent application to the EU General Court for annulment of the Commission’s Decision finding anti-competitive behaviour in the primary and secondary European Government Bond (“EGB”) markets.
- Advised Numis Corporation Plc on the UK merger control aspects of its acquisition by Deutsche Bank AG.
Dispute resolution > Banking litigation: investment and retail Tier 4
Working in tandem with the firm’s finance, financial services and markets, and derivatives and structured products teams, Travers Smith LLP‘s banking and financial markets disputes practice advises an array of financial institutions, including banks, brokers, and fund managers. Rob Fell focuses on disputes within the financial services sector, representing investment and clearing banks and other finance clients. Alice Childs is experienced in multi-jurisdictional disputes, acting for foreign financial institutions and participating in cross-border litigation. Stephanie Lee is another key member of the team and John Lee is praised by clients for his ‘very high level of technical rigour’.Practice head(s):
Heather Gagen
Other key lawyers:
Rob Fell; Alice Childs; Stephanie Lee; John Lee; Natalie Puddicombe; Huw Jenkin
Testimonials
‘Deep technical expertise and an ability to get the job done, no matter how big.’
‘Under the leadership of the new head of disputes, Heather Gagen, the Banking litigation team thrives. Rob Fell, Stephanie Lee, and Huw Jenkin consistently deliver outstanding results for their clients. Their ability to collaborate seamlessly, leverage their respective strengths, and devise innovative legal strategies sets them apart from their competitors.’
‘Rob Fell – Partner – a natural leader, with excellent client skills. Heather Gagen – Partner – now head of the practice, a highly intelligent and empathetic lawyer, with unlimited energy and an expert communicator.’
‘Travers field a very strong banking litigation team, with a high level of technical ability and commercial acumen. We have been very impressed by the team’s quality, depth and ability to deal with complex and fast-moving litigation proceedings. They are also great to deal with on a personal level and ease the burden on in-house counsel. It is very helpful that they are not conflicted and can act against major financial institutions.’
‘Rob Fell is the senior partner on the matter. He has excellent commercial and strategic sense and brings great value to the team.’
‘John Lee is the more junior partner and brings a very high level of technical rigour to the case; he can really engage with the detail and is clearly highly intellectual.’
‘Lovely people to work with – perfect balance of clever and hard working but with great judgement.’
‘Rob Fell (partner), Alice Childs (partner) and Natalie Puddicombe – all excellent in their own right.’
Key clients
Sadeq Sayeed
Nomura International plc
Macquarie
Tulip Trading Limited
Work highlights
- Advising the former CEO of Nomura International plc in relation to (i) criminal proceedings brought in Italy against him, the Italian Bank Monte dei Paschi di Siena, Nomura, Deutsche Bank, and certain other individuals from the three banks for false accounting, market manipulation and obstruction of a regulator in respect of complex derivative trades entered into between Nomura International plc and Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena in 2009; and (ii) regulatory proceedings that have been brought in Italy in relation to the same derivative trades.
- Advising Nomura on its application to the EU General Court for annulment of the European Commission’s Decision finding anti-competitive behaviour in the primary and secondary European Government Bond markets.
- Acted for Tulip Trading Limited in its claim seeking to recover its access to and control of bitcoin, which it claims to own in two addresses on the blockchain, the private keys to which it claims were stolen in a hack.
Employment > Immigration Tier 4
Travers Smith LLP has a broad business immigration practice with particular expertise advising clients in the financial services sector. The firm has comprehensive regulatory capabilities and can ensure a holistic service to overseas corporate clients wanting to establish a UK presence, or that are going through a restructuring or acquiring a new business. The group also has extensive experience handling Global Mobility issues, such as managing overseas remote working and global business travel. Practice head Tim Gilbert advises on all aspects of business immigration issues, and is an expert in Sponsor Licences and compliance issues.Practice head(s):
Tim Gilbert
Other key lawyers:
Ed Mills; Moji Oyediran
Testimonials
‘Travers Smith team has very kind and attentive people. They allocate enough time to listen to our problem and efficiently propose a viable solution. ’
‘We can reach out to Travers Smith team members easily by email or phone. If this is a request that they cannot directly help, they always find the right person to engage with. We never felt a barrier between us and them in terms of communication and we feel that our time is valued. ’
Key clients
Bain Capital
Bidfood
RBC Brewin Dolphin
Groupon
Ambassador Theatre Group
Uswitch
The Access Group
Lothbury Investment Management
Marathon Asset Management
Eastdil Secured
Bakkavor plc
Bighand
Monarch Alternative Capital
Davidson Kempner European Partners
Campbell Lutyens
Atomico
Muzinich & Co
Watlow Electric / Eurotherm Limited
Confused.com
RVU Limited
Telstra
Work highlights
- Advising Groupon on business immigration matters across its global offices, including coordinating local advice in eleven jurisdictions, as well as UK advice on sponsored skilled worker visas and sponsorship compliance.
- Advising Cambell Lutyens on number of sponsored work visas for key specialist roles in the UK; sponsorship and right to work compliance; and coordinating visas in relation to EU business travel requirements.
- Advising Access on its UK immigration requirements in relation to a number of significant business acquisitions including in relation to maintaining post-acquisition sponsorship compliance as well as advising on post-acquisition right to work compliance.
Industry focus > Retail and consumer Tier 4
Real estate > Commercial property: corporate occupiers Tier 4
Travers Smith LLP’s corporate occupiers practice counts headquarters lettings, leases, and office relocations within its primary scope of work, and frequently acts for retail and office sector clients. Emma Pereira leads the team and concentrates on advising real estate private equity funds on investments and developments. Alex Millar’s core workflows include regeneration and development projects, whereas Sarah Walker handles asset management matters.Practice head(s):
Emma Pereira
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team worked quickly and efficiently to deliver our complex pre-let. They took our continually shifting goal posts in their stride and made the process much smoother for us.’
‘Sarah Walker led the transaction for us, she was actively involved at all stages and always available. Sarah had great market insights and was able to offer us commercially focused solutions to some tricky problems. Sarah coordinated her team expertly.’
Key clients
Goodwin Proctor
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 4
Risk advisory > Data protection, privacy and cybersecurity Tier 4
Travers Smith LLP‘s technology and commercial transactions team advises a wide-ranging roster of notable clients on all aspects of their data protection compliance, including sharing arrangements and impact assessments. Cross-border data transfers are a particular area of expertise, and are regularly handled by experienced practitioner Louisa Chambers. James Longster and Sarah Robinson are singled out as ‘experts in their field‘.Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Travers Smith is extremely responsive, practical and well versed in the subject matter.’
‘Both James Longster and Sarah Robinson are experts in their field and are fantastic to work with.’
Key clients
NatWest Group plc
Samsung Electronics UK Limited
Pay.UK
Ohme Operations UK Limited
Groupon Inc
JUSTICE
Foley Hoag LLP / Google LLC
Bain Capital LLC
Euroclear
John Whitgift Foundation
MGN Pension Trustees Ltd (Mirror Group Newspapers)
Thensia
Fundsmith
Helsing
Pemberton Asset Management S.A.
Work highlights
- Conducting an independent investigation into bank account closures by Coutts on behalf of Natwest Group, with a focus on any potential breaches of UK data protection legislation.
- Advising Samsung on compliance issues presented by the data-sharing obligations under the new EU Data Act.
- Advising Pay.UK on the design and implementation of its new payments architecture.
Corporate and commercial > M&A: Upper Mid-Market And Premium Deals, £750m+ Tier 5
Noted for its expertise across a range of sectors, including infrastructure, financial services, wealth management and technology, Travers Smith LLP is frequently involved in high-value matters, comprising public takeovers, group combinations, acquisitions and investments. Entrusted by FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 companies, private equity firms and financial sponsors, the practice is noted for its dedicated listed company advisory team. Key figures include joint practice heads Spencer SummerfieldPractice head(s):
Spencer Summerfield; Andrew Gillen; Lucie Cawood
Other key lawyers:
Richard Spedding; Adrian West; Tom Coulter; Jonathan Walters
Testimonials
‘Reassuring across all aspects of the relationship: top quality partners, very strong associates, more than pleasant to work alongside.’
‘Jon Reddington provides a strong combination of calmness, expertise and market experience.’
‘Jonathan Walters combines incredible responsiveness with considered advice.’
‘Adrian West is consummate; knows the market well and adds deep equity capital market knowledge to the public deals.’
Key clients
Zegona Communications plc
Swisscom
Deutsche Numis
Inflexion
Greenfield Enterprises
Lifezone Metals
DIF Capital Partners
Aurelius Group
IK Partners
BUUK Infrastructure
finnCap
EMIS Group plc
Auto Trader plc
Brown & Brown Inc.
Söderberg & Partners Holdings AB
Ideagen plc
Crestchic plc
Ancala Partners
Foresight
Adventurous Journey’s Capital
S4 Capital plc
Safestore plc
InstaVolt
SARIA
Breedon
Indicor Equity LLC
Brooks Macdonald plc
Macquarie
Investec
Northleaf Capital Partners
RSK Group
Blancco Technology Group plc
ProA Capital
Volex plc
BPEA EQT
Work highlights
- Advised Zegona Communications plc on its proposed acquisition of Vodafone Spain for an enterprise value of €5bn.
- Advised Lifezone Metals on its deSPAC combination with GoGreen Investments.
- Advised EMIS Group plc on its recommended £1.24bn takeover by Bordeaux UK Holdings II Limited, an affiliate of Optum Health Solutions (UK) Limited and a wholly owned subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group Incorporated.
Finance > Acquisition finance Tier 5
Investment fund formation and management > Private funds Tier 5
Travers Smith LLP is known for retailisation and the targeting of discretionary wealth managers and private investors, while the group’s work on secondaries is also well respected in the market. Jeremy Elmore assists asset managers with the structuring of asset management businesses, as well as LP conversions, succession planning, and spin-outs. Will Normand is key to the firm’s efforts concerning funds targeted at wealth managers and private banks. Tosin Adeyeri joined from Proskauer Rose LLP in October 2023.Practice head(s):
Aaron Stocks
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘I genuinely could not be happier with the legal team at Travers. They are so responsive and always find sensible and practical solutions to any issues that come . The quality of service we have had from this law firm compared to our previous one is exponential.’
‘I really like how the junior team rotate but this never impacts on delivery which just goes to show how much they invest in their junior team members making sure they are up to speed. I would not hesitate to recommend Jeremy Elmore and Jonathan Trent as a dream team to any other Funds in the mid-market space looking for lawyers.’
‘Jonathan Trent is a superstar. I genuinely would have been lost without him during our fundraising process. He is so calm. I have never seen him get flustered or overwhelmed. I think this is a real sign of someone that has confidence because they are great at their job.’
‘Solutions oriented, great client dedication, commercial understanding.’
‘Jeremy Elmore is solutions oriented.’
Work highlights
Real estate > Commercial property: development Tier 5
Travers Smith LLP regularly advises clients on development transactions, as well as leasing and finance matters. The firm is particularly well-versed in the senior living space. The team is led by Emma Pereira, who frequently advises real estate funds. Within the team, Alex Millar focuses on regeneration projects, whilst Sarah Walker specialises in senior living projects.Practice head(s):
Emma Pereira
Other key lawyers:
Alex Millar; Sarah Walker; Emma Sykes; Gareth Wynne
Testimonials
‘They are technically strong but pragmatic in their approach – quite simply they work hard to get deals done and get those deals done quickly.’
‘Gareth Wynne is technically very strong whilst working openly and collaboratively to complete transactions.’
‘Helpful, pragmatic and commercially aware.’
‘Sarah Walker provides clear and consistent advice.’
‘Alex Millar combines technical expertise and commercial awareness to help find solutions and move transactions forward.’
‘I have always found Travers Smith to be very collaborative and easy to deal with. They are technically strong but pragmatic in their approach – quite simply they work hard to get deals done and get those deals done quickly.’
Key clients
Patron Capital
Impact Healthcare REIT plc
Westrock
Harbinger
Clearbell Capital
Greenacre
Work highlights
Real estate > Commercial property: investment Tier 5
The ‘pragmatic, responsive and knowledgeable’ team at Travers Smith LLP advises clients on a broad range of asset transactions, with experience in the healthcare, senior living, logistics and mixed-use sectors. The team is led by Emma Pereira, who focuses on real estate fund support. Alex Millar specialises in development and regeneration projects. In May 2023, Simon Rutman retired.Practice head(s):
Emma Pereira
Other key lawyers:
Alex Millar, Emma Sykes, Gareth Wynne
Testimonials
‘Pragmatic, responsive and knowledgeable. I have not yet managed to ask a question they cannot answer.’
‘Very wide ranging commercial experience, able to deploy it in pragmatic ways.’
Key clients
Patron Capital
Lothbury Investment Management
Impact Healthcare REIT plc
Westrock
BOC Group Limited
Clearbell Capital
Greenacre
Greystar
Pinebridge Benson Elliot
MARK
Work highlights
Finance > Bank lending: investment grade debt and syndicated loans Tier 6
Corporate and commercial > M&A: Lower Mid-Market Deals, £100m-£750m
Travers Smith LLP > Firm Profile
The firm: It is not just law at Travers Smith. We treat our clients’ business as our business, their dispute as our dispute, their challenges as ours.
Our clients know that wherever in the world they or their ambitions lie, we will work as one of their team to help them achieve their goals. With our offices in London and Paris, and through a carefully cultivated network based on relationships with independent law firms from all over the world, we are able to provide a first-class, seamless service to clients around the globe.
We regularly conduct cutting-edge and industry-first work for clients across industry sectors and have carved a market-leading reputation for our expertise in international asset management, cross-border M&A and global dispute resolution and investigations.
Our clients include publicly listed and private companies, financial institutions and private equity firms, and other business enterprises involved in large and complex UK and cross-border matters, transactions and disputes. They come to us not only because of our expertise, but also the way we conduct our business and collaborate with one another.
Our practice area teams specialising in commercial, IP and technology, competition, corporate finance and M&A, dispute resolution, derivatives and structured products, employment, environment and operational risk, infrastructure, finance and restructuring, financial services and markets, funds, incentives and remuneration, pensions, private equity and financial sponsors, real estate, regulatory investigations and tax regularly work together as one cohesive team on matters and deals.
Our success is rooted in the excellence of our people, our clients and our commitment to using our influence and knowledge to do good in the society. This is our difference and we are proud of it.
International: For its international and cross-border work, Travers Smith has focused on building carefully cultivated relationships with independent law firms all over the world, sharing quality standards and strengths. This enables the firm to provide a first-class, seamless service for clients around the globe. The firm has chosen this route because it gives it the ability to pick the best firm for every piece of work, providing a one-firm approach wherever the firm’s clients conduct their business. Travers Smith regularly coordinates the provision of overseas advice for particular matters, as well as recommends law firms for its clients to instruct directly. What distinguishes Travers Smith’s model is the investment the firm makes into developing its relationships with the best independent law firms in the world.
Recruitment: Travers Smith is always looking to recruit people from all backgrounds, with academic excellence and sound judgement who take their careers, but not themselves, seriously. The firm’s training philosophy is that skill and expertise are best acquired through practical experience, complemented by carefully targeted formal instruction. Great emphasis is placed on continuous learning and development towards personal and professional growth.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Managing Partner | Edmund Reed | ||
Senior Partner | Andrew Gillen | ||
Commercial, IP & Technology | Dan Reavill | ||
Corporate | Spencer Summerfield | ||
Corporate M&A and ECM | Adrian West | ||
Derivatives & Structured Products | Jonathan Gilmour | ||
Dispute Resolution | Heather Gagen | ||
EU/Competition | Nigel Seay | ||
Employee Incentives | Mahesh Varia | ||
Employment | Tim Gilbert | ||
Environment & Operational Risk | John Buttanshaw | ||
Finance | Charles Bischoff | ||
Financial Services & Markets | Tim Lewis | ||
Funds | Aaron Stocks | ||
Pensions | Daniel Gerring | ||
Private Equity & Financial Sponsors | Ian Shawyer | ||
Real Estate | Emma Pereira | ||
Tax | Russell Warren | ||
International contact: Paris | William Howard |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
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Mr Mark Evans | Senior Consultant Mark advises on a broad range of financial markets issues… | View Profile |
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Mr Edmund Reed | Managing Partner Over many years he has had an active role in… | View Profile |
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Mr Spencer Summerfield | Partner, Head of Corporate Spencer has a broad corporate practice but his… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of partners : 97 Number of associate solicitors : 342Diversity/Community
Our approach to diversity and creating an inclusive workplace goes beyond just ticking a box. We want everyone to be themselves at Travers Smith. We value everything that makes us unique and we recognise that celebrating our differences helps make the firm a special place to work.
From initiatives aimed at reducing biases and tackling micro-aggressions, to the wide-ranging and exciting work of our diversity network groups, we have an extensive D&I programme aimed at creating a workplace where people can thrive and reach their full potential. Below is a selection of projects we delivered in 2020-21
1. A focus on allyship
Allies, or people who are proactive and understanding of the challenges affecting diverse groups of people, can be instrumental in driving positive cultural change. It is not the responsibility of people from minority groups to create a fairer society but rather that task sits on the shoulders of allies and people in positions of influence. Building upon this framework of engaging with the majority to help drive positive change for the minority and/or underrepresented, we have developed resources aimed at educating and empowering our people to be effective allies.
2. Building an anti-racism workplace
It is no longer enough for individuals to say they are not racist; we all need to be proactively anti-racist. As part of our wider work in tackling racial inequality, we continue to run our ‘Empowering our Allies: How do we be Anti-Racist?’ series for all partners and members of staff. These interactive sessions discussed the importance of being anti-racist, how we can all be anti-racist, and what this looks like in our day-to-day and working lives.
3. Intersectionality: celebrating difference
By looking at our D&I initiatives through an intersectional lens, we are able to better examine the role people’s multiple identities have in compounding inequality and discrimination, and to develop mechanisms to better promote inclusion. Some ways we have achieved this are:
- D&I Seminar programme: We programmed a series of seminars, events and podcasts involving speakers from as diverse backgrounds as possible to help provide an insight into the diverse experiences of people from minority and under-represented groups.
- D&I book club: We have recently launched a quarterly D&I-themed book club that is open to anyone across the firm. this book club will provide people with an opportunity to discuss the chosen text, as well as explore its associated themes.
More information: https://www.traverssmith.com/difference/being-inclusive/
- Corporate and commercial > Commercial contracts
- Employment > Employee share schemes
- Employment > Pensions (non-contentious)
- Risk advisory > Corporate governance
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Corporate and commercial > Equity capital markets – small-mid cap
- Corporate and commercial > Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory
- Corporate and commercial > Private equity: transactions - mid-market deals (up to £500m)
- Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: civil
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: premium
- Dispute resolution > Competition litigation
- Employment > Employers
- Finance > Derivatives and structured products
- Investment fund formation and management > Listed funds
- Real estate > Environment
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Fintech: regulatory
Firm Rankings
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax
- Corporate and commercial > Equity capital markets: mid-large cap
- Corporate and commercial > Financial services: contentious
- Investment fund formation and management > Fund finance
- Projects, energy and natural resources > Infrastructure: M&A and acquisition financing
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms
- Risk advisory > ESG
- Corporate and commercial > EU and competition
- Dispute resolution > Banking litigation: investment and retail
- Employment > Immigration
- Industry focus > Retail and consumer
- Real estate > Commercial property: corporate occupiers
- Real estate > Property litigation
- Risk advisory > Data protection, privacy and cybersecurity