Noted for its ‘expertise and personalised approach’ Bird & Bird LLP handles complex and multijurisdictional transactions for clients across a number of sectors, including technology, communications, energy, media, and life sciences, to name a few. Matt Bonass co-leads the international corporate team and is recognised for the breadth of his expertise, regularly working with energy, utilities, and technology businesses. The team also benefits from the knowledge of tech expert Neil Blundell who concentrates on transatlantic M&A deals, chiefly acting for US companies seeking to invest in the UK. On the media and entertainment front, Simon Fielder focuses on international M&A, joint ventures, and venture capital equity financing. Nick O’Donnell’s former experience working in the US and the UAE make him a go-to name for multinational technology, retail, and consumer businesses, as well as financial institutions seeking support for international acquisitions, disposals, and mergers. Specialising in equity financing and IPOs, Clive Hopewell leads the firm’s international capital markets group. His expertise also extends to cross-border M&A deals for clients in the financial services, energy and utilities, and mining and natural resources sectors. Other standout names in the practice include ’trusted adviser’ James Baillieu, as well as Richie Lamb and George Mason.
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team's outstanding performance stands out in the market. James Baillieu understood the transaction's particulars, navigated through the complexity of the deal, and led a multidisciplinary team in a spotless way.’
‘James Baillieu really stands out on the way he is leading the topics. Not only he is extraordinary in managing his team, but also understands and navigates the complexity of the topics brought before him. He also earned the counterpart respect, which was very important for achieving the final result. I would definitely recommend him to anyone.’
‘Very tight team with very present partner involvement. They are strong on tech understanding and flexible.’
‘We turn to Nick O'Donnell for his succinct and pragmatic advice. He is very knowledgable and always available.’
‘The group stands out for its ability to bring in specialists from across the industry, in this case energy, to negotiate both the joint venture agreement and the tolling agreement and management service agreement.’
‘Nick O'Donnell has excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to differentiate between what is material and what is not. He is reassuring to senior management and supportive to less experienced in house teams.’
‘Expert but not arrogant, pragmatic, responsive and sensible. A pleasure to work with.’
‘Bird&Bird is exceptional due to its high level of expertise and personalised approach that caters to the individual needs of its clients. They possess outstanding technical abilities across a broad range of legal fields, particularly in Life Sciences, and offer practical, business-focused advice that delivers excellent results. Their billing process is transparent and fair. Moreover, they work collaboratively with clients to exactly meet their needs, making them a highly recommended option for any potential client.’
‘Working with James Baillieu and team has been a pleasure. James brings exceptional technical expertise, proactive problem-solving, and a confident, calm demeanour to the table. James has a deep understanding of our business needs and offers practical solutions. He is highly responsive, communicates effectively, and handles complex legal challenges with ease. As a trusted adviser, James consistently provides excellent service and value to our business.’
‘Nick O'Donnell is always there to support; prompt in responses and always finds effective solution to the posed difficult matters.’
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
George Mason
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Richie Lamb
Practice head
Matt Bonass
Other key lawyers
Neil Blundell; Simon Fielder; Nick O'Donnell; Clive Hopewell; James Baillieu; Richie Lamb; George Mason