Stephenson Harwood is recognised for its deep expertise in operational PPP and PFI mandates, regularly advising equity investors, project companies and contractors across sectors including health, education, and waste. The group is active on handbacks, refinancings, disputes and secondary market activity, and is increasingly sought-after in the transport and rail infrastructure space. Team head Jonathan Cripps is noted for his strength in handling social infrastructure builds and works with a variety of public and private sector entities. Rebecca Carter is well-placed to act on complex PPP/PFI builds, while Kirsti Massie, who joined from Mayer Brown International LLP in January 2025, has a particular focus on energy and power ventures. Ryan Fordham brings construction and engineering expertise following his move from Shoosmiths LLP in January 2025. Phil Harris continues to support across the full spectrum of practice mandates.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team is a cohesive, well-structured and -run unit. The strength and depth means that you always get the right person for the job. The juniors are talented, well supported and encouraged to develop.’
‘Each member of the team that I have dealt with has been commercial and pragmatic. The big stand out is the ability to listen and understand the client's needs rather than just quoting the law.'
'The application of legal principles to commercial issues is appreciated as opposed to tried and tested solutions. Special mention to Phil Harris for his pragmatism.'
‘Gives confidence.'
‘Committed to the project.'
‘The team is headed up by one of the most experienced and skilled individuals in the sector: Jonathan Cripps. The team is itself is growing in capability. The team is easy to work with - and is client-focused.’
Key clients
- North London Waste Authority
- Semperian PPP Investment Partners No.2 Limited
- Civis PFI/PPP Infrastructure Fund LLP
- HLR Schools Limited
- Enviroo Project Co Limited
- Hitachi Rail Limited
- NextGen AssetCo Limited
- East African Port Project
Work highlights
Advising North London Waste Authority on all legal aspects of its North London Heat and Power Project since 2011 – a multi-year programme to build a new Energy Recovery Facility at the Edmonton EcoPark in Enfield.
Regular operational advice to various companies within Civis' UK portfolio.
Advising Enviroo Project Co Limited and its two prospective shareholders on a waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) recycling project.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Phil Harris
Practice head
Jonathan Cripps
Other key lawyers
Rebecca Carter; Kirsti Massie; Ryan Fordham; Phil Harris