Goodwin Procter Strengthens London Funds Team with CMS Hire
In a significant move to expand its London presence, international law firm Goodwin Procter has recruited Andrew Kingsbury, a seasoned funds partner from CMS. This strategic hire underscores Goodwin's commitment to growing its funds practice in the competitive UK legal market, as the firm aims to enhance its capabilities in private equity and investment funds.
Andrew Kingsbury's Expertise and Background
Andrew Kingsbury brings over 15 years of experience in funds law, specializing in the establishment and management of private equity, real estate, and infrastructure funds. At CMS, he was a key figure in the funds team, advising high-profile clients on complex regulatory and transactional matters. His deep knowledge of the European funds landscape is expected to provide Goodwin Procter with a competitive edge in attracting new business and servicing existing clients.
Strategic Implications for Goodwin Procter
This recruitment is part of Goodwin Procter's broader strategy to bolster its London office, which has been actively expanding in recent years. By adding Kingsbury to its ranks, the firm signals its intent to compete more aggressively with top-tier UK and international law firms in the funds sector. The hire may also facilitate cross-border collaborations, leveraging Goodwin's global network to offer integrated legal solutions for clients operating in multiple jurisdictions.
The move comes at a time when the London legal market is experiencing increased demand for funds expertise, driven by regulatory changes and growing investor interest in alternative assets. Goodwin Procter's investment in talent like Kingsbury positions it to capitalize on these trends, potentially leading to increased market share and revenue growth.
Reaction from the Legal Industry
Industry observers have noted that this hire reflects the ongoing talent wars in London's legal sector, where firms are aggressively poaching top performers to strengthen niche practices. CMS, meanwhile, may face challenges in retaining its market position, but the firm has a deep bench of funds lawyers to mitigate the impact. The recruitment highlights the fluid nature of partner movements in competitive markets like London, where client relationships and specialized skills are highly valued.
In summary, Goodwin Procter's acquisition of Andrew Kingsbury from CMS marks a pivotal step in its London expansion, with potential ripple effects across the funds legal landscape. As the firm integrates his expertise, clients can expect enhanced service offerings in funds law, reinforcing London's status as a global hub for legal and financial services.
