ESG
Slaughter and May‘s ’comprehensive and cross-sectional advice’ is trusted by the likes of ASDA, Burberry and British American Tobacco. The team is equipped to advise on issues such as responses to greenwashing investigations, corporate governance and a range of supply-chain related work. David Watkins heads up the team and is frequently sought out by corporate clients for assistance with their climate-related financial disclosures. Harry Hecht is well-versed in regulations such as the CSRD and frequently advises multinational clients on remaining compliant. Moira Thompson Oliver is an authority on human rights governance and risk management practices. Samantha Brady is frequently asked to navigate clients through the emergence of hard and soft law relating to environmental and climate change issues.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The Slaughter & May sustainability team under the lead of excellent partner Harry Hecht provides comprehensive and cross-sectional advice on ESG. Together with a strong international network of 'best friends' law firms.'
‘Harry Hecht is a very focused and client-oriented partner. His broad transactional and advisory background is clearly beneficial for clients seeking cross-sectional advice on ESG matters.’
‘Sam Brady is a standout lawyer - excellent.’
‘The team is always available, meets expectations when it comes to deadlines, and fees can be negotiated.’
‘They have a very deep knowledge on the issues relating to business and human rights, the instruments of soft law (such as UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights) and the upcoming new regulations (such as the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive).’
‘Moira Thompson has a extensive experience on the impact on human rights on sporting events and its broadcasting. She is a highly regarded specialist in human rights governance.’
Key clients
- Asda
- Arrow Global Group
- Burberry
- Shell
- British American Tobacco
- EG Group
- Gemfields
- SEGRO
- BHP
- Whitbread
- DS Smith
- Tata Steel
Work highlights
- Advising Asda in relation to all aspects of the Competition and Markets Authority’s first investigation into greenwashing, following certain environmental claims made by Asda’s George clothing range.
- Provided advice in relation to ESG-related legislation affecting Arrow Global Group Limited and its UK- and EU-registered subsidiaries.
- Assisted Burberry with its Annual General Meeting following PETA’s publication of a video showing non-ESG compliant behaviour by one of its suppliers which operates in Mongolia.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
David Watkins