A&O Shearman offers clients ‘depth and breadth of knowledge and insight in respect of key changes in corporate governance best practice’ and has recently been handling a number of high-profile issues raised in the media, including shareholder activism, ESG/sustainability matters and corporate compliance. The practice is led by corporate partner Dominic Morris and includes Richard Browne, a key name for governance and disclosure advice, public takeover bids and other transactional matters, and Matthew Townsend, who is a contact for environmental, climate change and regulatory issues. David Broadley is also active on corporate matters, while Claire Coppel is recommended for corporate governance and shareholder activism. At the more junior end of the team, counsels Victoria Rankmore and Kate Astley are noted for their AGM and annual reporting advice.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

'The A&O team adds value by advising not only on technical matters, but on how those matters are being interpreted and applied as a matter of best practice by other listed companies.'
'They are immensely kind and patient in explaining complex matters in easily comprehensible terms.'
'Extraordinary responsiveness, which we value immensely when we're experiencing challenging and stressful times and need a quick turnaround.'
'Depth and breadth of knowledge and insight in respect of key changes in corporate governance best practice.'
'Kate Astley and Victoria Rankmore offer great technical advice with a practical overlay.'
'What makes A&O stand out for me is their relationships with their colleagues globally, which allows them to provide advice across a number of jurisdictions (usually within a matter of days).'
'The team are excellent and the connection with the corporate team is the most joined up I have experienced.'
'The corporate governance advisory work is really strong, they balance the business' needs with compliance with the law.'
'Their advice on our digital AGM has been really clear and much more progressive than their peers in the market.'

Key clients

Moonpig
TUI
Great Portland Estates
Quilter (formerly Old Mutual Wealth)
Man Group

Work highlights

Advising various clients, including Quilter, Direct Line, Man Group, TUI, Moonpig and Great Portland Estates, on AGMs, annual reports and governance arrangements.
Advising Quilter on various matters throughout the year including the review of Annual Report and Accounts and AGM Notice of Meeting, the holding of AGM and other General Meetings, and on Listing Rules and MAR obligations, including in relation to the change of Chair of the Board and change of the Group CEO.
Advised Checkout on various matters throughout the year including a directors' duties matter and conflicts of interest across a number of key jurisdictions and the feasibility (from a securities, trust, tax and employment law perspective) of operating of an employee benefit trust, in conjunction with an employee shareplan, for the benefit of employees resident in 27 jurisdictions globally.