British law firm Browne Jacobson, which opened its first overseas office in Dublin in September, has outlined its strategic plans to grow its legal team over the next our years.
The Dublin office will initially focus on delivering an integrated end-to-end technology, media and telecommunications (TMT) practice for domestic and international clients with further service lines expected to be added in response to customer demand.
The firm also said it is committed to encouraging and promoting talent from a diverse range of backgrounds, with its latest FAIRE (Fairer Access into Real Experience) virtual careers event having attracted over 100 young people from across Ireland.
The office was established by founding partners Jeanne Kelly and Ciarán Markey, who are permanently based in Dublin, and Declan Cushley and Anthony Nagle, who together oversaw the strategy to open in Dublin.
Originally from Derry, Cushley is head of the firm's commercial & technology group, while Kerryman Nagle is the national head of technology, outsourcing & digital transformation. Both will divide their attention between London and Dublin.
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"Having our first overseas office in Ireland is a real game changer for us and our clients. It will ensure we are perfectly positioned to meet growing client demand for an integrated cross border offering spanning three of the world’s primary tech hubs – London, Dublin and the US," Kelly and Markey said.
"As a firm we’re passionate about making sure our teams on the ground truly reflect the societies we serve. We have ambitious plans to grow our Dublin office over the next few years and will ensure that we take full advantage of the bounty of diverse talent available locally.”
Mike Rebeiro, former head of TMT at Macfarlanes, has been appointed the firm's TMT and digital transformation consultant, and senior associate Darragh Killeen and associate Raymond Sherry have also been appointed.
The Dublin team works closely with Browne Jacobson's 40-strong UK team to support existing TMT clients while also trying to attract premium domestic and international mandates.
Commenting on the announcement, Tánaiste Leo Varadkar TD said: “I am really pleased that Browne Jacobson has chosen Dublin for its first overseas office.
"Ireland is home to a lively and experienced legal services sector and Browne Jacobson’s plans for strategic growth in Ireland will offer wonderful employment opportunities for our legal and business service professionals."
Dónal Travers, head of technology, consumer and business services at IDA Ireland, added: "IDA Ireland welcomes Browne Jacobson’s plans to grow its Irish legal team, having recently established its first overseas office in Dublin.
"The company is a welcome addition to Ireland’s vibrant and expanding legal services ecosystem and their growth plans signal confidence in the favourable conditions that exist here for companies in this sector, and for their clients in the technology, media and telecommunications sector."
Photo: Staff from Browne Jacobson's Dublin office. (Pic: Paul Sherwood Photography)
