Slaughter and May’s broad caseload encompasses digital infrastructure projects, IT outsourcing, regulatory matters, and technology disputes. Practice head Rob Sumroy ‘gives radically clear pragmatic advice’ and is well-versed in commercial licensing, sourcing transactions, and technology-related investments. David Ives is often engaged in IT service agreements and software developments, while Duncan Blaikie covers telecommunications procurement. Laura Houston is noted for her strength in technology assets, and Rebecca Cousin is well-informed in the data aspects of corporate transactions. Ian Ranson is another key team member.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘They are a premium firm with highly skilled experts.‘
  • ‘Slaughter and May excel in helping organisations at board level pick their way through a cyber crisis such as a ransomware attack.’
  • ‘Their UK-based footprint means they can be remarkably adaptable in working with other law firms in other territories, as required by the client, rather than be hamstrung by a global structure that they have to operate in.’
  • ‘They provided exemplary support on a cyber incident, they are clearly experienced, pragmatic, and good at instilling confidence in a challenging situation.’
  • ‘Their team is very responsive, client-oriented, and produces work of stellar quality. Their advice is cutting-edge, current and user-friendly.’
  • ‘Rob Sumroy's calm and experience-based guidance was pitched just right.’
  • 'Rob Sumroy is a high-energy partner who seems omniscient! He's always sharp and gives radically clear pragmatic advice. He is also adept at pulling in his other partners and team members, so you feel you are getting a 'joined-up' service.’
  • ‘Duncan Blaikie is exceptional.’

Key clients

  • Vodafone Group Plc
  • Halfords
  • Burberry Limited
  • NewDay Cards Limited
  • Euroclear
  • Richemont International SA
  • Google LLC
  • Activision Blizzard
  • Johnson Matthey
  • Bunzl Plc

Work highlights

  • Advised Burberry Limited on its negotiations of SAP’s general terms and conditions and data processing agreement for outsourced cloud services.
  • Advised NewDay on its partnership with Lloyds Banking Group to establish an advanced e-commerce installment lending product using technology of the NewDay Group.
  • Advised Richemont on the dual re-platforming of its Maisons and its YOOX Net-a-Porter S.p.A businesses onto the industry-leading Farfetch e-commerce technology platform.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners: IT
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Rob Sumroy

Other key lawyers

David Ives, Duncan Blaikie, Laura Houston, Rebecca Cousin, Ian Ranson