Shoosmiths LLP

Partner, Commercial

Michelle is a well-respected commercial contracts lawyer with a strong background having worked in-house for many years prior to joining private practice.

Michelle has a real ability to understand her Clients’ requirements in order to document them in a way that is clear, concise and user friendly.

With a particular expertise in cross border arrangements and often for Clients who are highly innovative both in terms of products (goods and or services) and contracting structure, Michelle works closely with Clients in all sectors to achieve solutions which work for them rather than attempting to mould Clients into.

Providing advice on all aspects of the supply and purchase of assets, goods and services with a particular interest in engineering and major projects. Her background in industry brings a strong connection to the rail sector which is a particular specialism as is her work with renewable energy companies.

Michelle joined the rail industry in 1999 working in-house for Alstom Transport and in her time there worked on projects across the world including spending time as the contract manager for the Northern and Jubilee lines. With a wealth of contracting experience in the rail industry whilst acting for OEMs and various members of the industry supply chain Michelle continues to focus on both rolling stock and infrastructure.

Experience covers all aspects of contract work relating to rolling stock, light rail projects and underground projects within the UK, ranging from manufacturing and renovation, freight, service and parts supply functions. She also provides advice on regulatory matters including management of Depot Licenses, Track Access Agreements, Depot Access Agreements, Depot Leases, Connection Agreements, Depot Access Conditions and Annexes and general liaison with the ORR and DFT.

Michelle has been the Vice-Chair of Rail Forum Midlands for a number of years now having joined the Board in 1999. She also sits on the East Midlands HS2 Strategic Board, the HS2 Business Advisory Board and the Steering Group in relation to the Midlands Pilot of the Rail Sector deal.

A regular speaker at rail industry events, in particular on regulatory matters and points affecting SMEs in the supply chain, Michelle also supports the rail industry in regular liaison with members of BEIS and DFT, something which has been most welcome since the commencement of the pandemic.

In addition to rail, Michelle has also significant experience in a wide range of renewable energy projects having worked on district heating schemes, projects involving coal mine methane extraction, heat source pumps, drain water heat recovery solutions, large scale and rooftop solar, battery storage, wind and hydrogen fuel powered vehicles.

Michelle holds a position as the Vice-Chair of Governors at the UTC Derby Pride Park, a school specially designed for 14-19 year olds who have a real interest in science, technology and maths with a focus on encouraging more young people into roles in engineering.