Eversheds global expansion sees Ian Gray appointed as first International Managing Partner 

Law firm Eversheds has announced the appointment of Ian Gray as the firm’s first International Managing Partner with executive responsibilities for its fast-growing international operations.

Since 2008-09, the firm’s revenue from international offices has grown 41%. At the same time, non-UK based partner numbers have grown by 195%. Eversheds has branded offices in 30 jurisdictions across Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia with a host of alliance relationships in place in other jurisdictions. The firm is recognised in the top twenty of the Global Elite Brand Index 2014 produced by Acritas and is one of the largest law firms in the world.

Bryan Hughes, Eversheds Chief Executive said:

“Following the successful expansion of Eversheds across the world, we have reached a stage in our development where we need an International Managing Partner to drive the business forward. I am delighted that Ian Gray will take up that role from 1 May 2015. Ian has led the Litigation practice group with great success and has been one of the vanguards in the business in terms of the globalisation of his practice and product groups.”

Ian Gray, Eversheds new International Managing Partner said:

“Eversheds has established an excellent coverage proposition over the last ten years and we are unique in terms of the multi-jurisdictional sole provider contracts that we operate for major multinational clients. My new role will be focused on deepening and growing our specialisms to further develop and grow our international business, taking advantage of the strong platform we have created. In the Middle East, Eversheds has more than quadrupled in size over the last five years, while in the same period, our operations in Asia have grown close to double that rate.

“Over the next few years, we will focus on growing further our key hubs in France, Germany, Dubai and Hong Kong to complement our operations in London. It is a truly exciting time to be taking on this role.”

Ian trained in Tokyo and spent his early career practicing in Hong Kong. He currently has executive responsibility for the firm’s Middle East operations. For the last seven years, he has led the firm’s Litigation practice group and is client relationship partner for Vodafone and Severn Trent. For the last three years, Ian has also had executive responsibility for the firm’s award winning gender diversity activities and will continue in this role post 1 May 2015.

Ian will work with Bryan Hughes on the strategic development of the firm’s global footprint. Lee Ranson will continue as Managing Partner of the firm, with Ian reporting to him on day to day operational issues.

As a result of Ian Gray’s new role, Paul Worth has been appointed as head of the Litigation Practice Group with effect from 1 May. Previously, Paul has successfully led and grown the firm’s Financial Institutions sector group.

Simon Waller will take up a new role as head of the Financial Institutions sector group, replacing Paul, again with effect from 1 May. Simon has vast experience in the financial services sector, led the firmwide Banking and Finance teams for many years.

Source: Eversheds 

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