William Fry Expands with 12-Member Team from Eversheds Sutherland

Irish law firm William Fry has recently welcomed a significant addition to its corporate and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) team by hiring a 12-member team from Eversheds Sutherland Ireland. This move follows unsuccessful merger discussions between the two firms, which were reported to have ended in May due to disagreements over commercial terms.

The Irish Times revealed that the law firm has successfully recruited four senior partners from Eversheds Sutherland. Among them is Gerard Ryan, the head of corporate mergers and acquisitions, along with senior partners Gavin O’Flaherty, Enda Newton, and Maria O’Brien. It was anticipated that these key figures would bring additional team members to William Fry, a prediction that has now materialized with this recent hire.

In a statement regarding the new appointments, Andrew McIntyre, head of William Fry’s corporate and M&A department, expressed enthusiasm about the team’s integration into the firm. He emphasized their extensive experience and capability in managing complex transactions, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome this exceptional team to William Fry. Their deep experience and proven ability to navigate sophisticated transactions will significantly enhance our client offering.”

McIntyre further noted that this addition strengthens the firm’s corporate and M&A practice, positioning William Fry as a leading choice for M&A transactions in Ireland. He affirmed the firm’s commitment to developing a team that can deliver strategic and commercial advice across all stages of the corporate life cycle, describing these recent appointments as a vital part of that vision.

Discussions about a potential merger between William Fry and Eversheds Sutherland first surfaced in December 2022. However, after several months of deliberation, the negotiations broke down in May 2023. Following the collapse of the merger talks, Eversheds Sutherland (International) decided to rebrand its existing Irish practice, announcing plans to establish a new law practice in Ireland. This transition includes the integration of around 170 staff members from the previous Eversheds Sutherland Irish business, with the new practice set to commence operations on September 15, 2023.

As William Fry continues to expand its capabilities, the firm appears well-positioned to enhance its market presence in Ireland’s competitive legal landscape, particularly within the realm of corporate and M&A law.