Renowned for providing ‘fast, accurate, and pragmatic advice’, DLA Piper has extensive expertise in complex multi-jurisdictional M&A and disposals, with a special focus on pharma and tech sector work. The practice is well-versed in mandates concerning strategic partnerships and investments on behalf of listed companies and is experienced in managing all elements of regulatory compliance. Heading the Birmingham-based team, Tim Lake routinely acts for founder shareholders and large corporate vendors on cross-border transactions. Charles Cook primarily concentrates on the automotive and energy spheres, while Noel Haywood is a specialist in the food and retail sectors. Robert Newman and Ryan Harrison routinely handle commercial contracts and capital markets issues.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team is experienced, commercial and responsive.’
‘Noel Haywood understands what matters in a deal and cuts to the chase. He is well able to deal with complex situations and difficult counterparties.’
‘Unlike many firms, all layers of the DLA corporate team at whatever level provide an excellent service. They are easy to do business with (a delight to work with, in fact) and they deliver a high-level service. They are experts in their field, giving fast, accurate, and pragmatic advice whilst also understanding budget restraints. Value adds services such as translation tools have been very helpful, and their global footprint matches the needs of our business.’
‘M&A deals require intense close working, and their ability to build rapport, share workloa,d and ensure we aren't left unsupported when someone is away or ill creates a seamless service for us. Simon Wright is a standout partner who can oversee a deal with just the right amount of involvement. Peter McHugh and Ronny Jenner are consistent, hard-working professionals that we are always pleased to work with. For the tax side of deals, Nick Hinton delivers great support in a timely manner too.’
- 'Highly responsive and technically aware, with good negotiation skills.'
Key clients
- 2 Sisters Food Group
- Adenia Partners
- Alstom
- Altrad
- Aston Martin Lagonda
- Axiom Hospitality
- Barclays Bank
- BorgWarner
- Brewdog
- Bridgestone
- Bromford Industries
- Butlin's
- Chamberlin
- Clinigen Group
- CommVault Systems
- Compass Group
- CoreLogic
- CVS Group
- Darwin Group
- Dechra Pharmaceuticals
Work highlights
Advised the shareholders of Utopia Tableware, a supplier to the hospitality & branded tableware industries, on its disposal to Steelite International, a supplier and manufacturer of tabletop, buffet, and lighting solutions to the global hospitality industry.
Acted for longstanding client 2 Sisters Food Group on its disposal of its European poultry business, known as 2 Sisters Storteboom, to Boparan Private Office.
Acted for longstanding client, Stantec, a global leader in sustainable design and engineering, on its acquisition of Hydrock, a UK-based integrated engineering design firm.
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.
Practice head
Tim Lake
Other key lawyers
Charles Cook; Noel Haywood; Gareth Stokes; Ryan Harrison; Robert Newman; Simon Wright; Jonathan Clarke; Tom Amarnani; Peter McHugh; Kurt Davies; Dan Cowley