Regarded by clients as a ‘leading UK funds practice,’ Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP covers the full gamut of retail fund matters on domestic and international levels. The group is well experienced in launching LTAFs, attaining SDR labels and OFR recognition, and overseeing investment structuring, as well as advising on tax and regulatory compliance, investment strategies, and asset transfers. With a wealth of expertise and cross-border capabilities, the team has amassed an impressive and expanding client roster comprised of notable depositaries, banks, and insurance companies. Heading up the department is Michaela Walker, who stands out for her ’strong legal and market knowledge.’ She regularly assists asset managers, securities service providers, and banks with SDR projects, corporate reporting requirements, and LTAF formations. On the FCA regulatory front, Julian Brown and Phil Spyropoulos are the go-to practitioners, while Katie Taylor and Hannah Jones concentrate on fund launches, restructurings, and terminations. Giulia Del Bianco and Sarah Kopec are among other key team members specialising in fund formations.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Eversheds has a leading UK funds practice which advises all types of fund service provider.’
‘It is commercially orientated with expertise in all major funds-related areas.’
‘Michaela Walker has a very strong legal and market knowledge of the UK funds industry and provides commercially orientated legal advice.’
‘This practice stands out due to its exceptional commitment to client service and its innovative approach to legal solutions.’
‘The team is composed of highly skilled professionals who bring a wealth of expertise.’
‘Phil Spyropoulos is exceptional and a leading authority in ESG. He consistently demonstrates remarkable leadership and strategic insight. He is a trusted advisor and one that delivers excellent value. His ability to navigate complex legal challenges with ease and provide clear, actionable advice is invaluable.’
'Excellent market knowledge and relationships with the FCA. Ability to refer and engage with other teams as required accross the firm.'
'Julian Brown – excellent market knowledge.'
- 'Giulia del Bianco – speed and accuracy of turnaround and excellent market knowledge and relationships with the FCA.'
- 'The team provide a very personalised service, taking the time to build up a solid relationship and to understand the needs of the business. As in in-house lawyer this makes working with Eversheds extremely valuable as it is like working with an extension to the team.'
Key clients
- Aviva
- Schroders
- M&G
- Fidelity
- Franklin Templeton
- AEW
- AXA IM
- Columbia Threadneedle
- Invesco
- Janus Henderson
- LGPS Central
- Morgan Stanley
- EdenTree
- Rathbones Asset Management
Work highlights
Advised AEW on the launch of the first ever labelled fund under the SDR regime.
Advised Aviva Investors on the launch of its third LTAF.
Advised Brown Advisory on its OFR project.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Michaela Walker
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Phil Spyropoulos
Practice head
Michaela Walker
Other key lawyers
Julian Brown; Phil Spyropoulos; Katie Taylor; Hannah Jones; Giulia Del Bianco; Sarah Kopec