Eversheds and Sutherland merger set to go ahead
PARTNERS of law firms Eversheds and US-based Sutherland have voted overwhelmingly in favour of a merger.
Eversheds, which has offices in Manchester Leeds, London, Birmingham, Nottingham, Ipswich, Cambridge and Newcastle, and Sutherland announced on November 29 they were in discussions to jon forces.
The firms’ consultation and voting process has now concluded simultaneously with exceptionally strong approval from the respective Partnerships.
They will become equal members in the new entity with effect from February 1 2017 and will do business around the world as Eversheds Sutherland.
The entity will be led by joint CEOs as part of a six-strong global management team, overseen by a global board of 10 with equal representation from both firms.
There are no significant internal structural changes anticipated within either firm and respective practice group heads will work together to co-lead client initiatives.
Across Eve
rsheds Sutherland, there are 2,300 lawyers with a global footprint spanning 61 offices in 29 countries. The combination will put Eversheds Sutherland in the UK’s top 10 and in the top 40 in US and global listings.
Eversheds chief executive Bryan Hughes said: “Our strategic desire to have a platform in the U.S. has long been public record.
“The challenge has been finding the right firm, particularly one that shares the same vision as us and is a strong cultural fit. In Sutherland, we have found that firm.
“Eversheds Sutherland will give each firm’s clients a truly global platform, including strong US coverage.
“The feedback from colleagues and clients has been overwhelmingly positive, with many opportunities already identified, and we are very confident that this will be a great outcome for our clients and our people.”
Sutherland managing partner Mark Wasserman said: “With this exciting combination, we will be able to offer clients of both firms the highest quality service and support around the world for their most important business opportunities.
“Over the past months, we have had the opportunity to get to know our colleagues at Eversheds well.
“Both firms are focused on providing innovative, effective and efficient service in a changing global environment while maintaining cultures that value diversity, involvement in our communities and the importance of caring for our people.”
