Herbert Smith Freehills LLP‘s advertising and marketing team is led by Hayley Brady, an expert in digital commercial, transactional and regulatory matters. Clients of the practice range from advertising agencies to global brands and technology companies. The team is known for its skills in the structuring and negotiation of global advertising deals, sponsorship and commercial agreements. James Balfour is a key team member, and assists with advertising and marketing arrangements as well as sponsorship deals. Rachel Kane is another contact for sponsorships, influencer marketing and ad agency deals agreements.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The team is excellent in addressing contractual and regulatory risks and navigating these taking the particulars of your business and the commercial considerations into account.’

  • ‘Alongside their expertise, Hayley Brady and James Balfour deliver a great service. They are solution-oriented, commercially savvy and provide excellent advice and perspectives on the legal topic or the deal you are working on.’

  • ‘An excellent understanding of the media industry and specific needs and requirements.’

  • ‘James Balfour has been outstanding as has Hayley Brady. Very approachable and responsive.’

Key clients

  • Bauer Media
  • Uber
  • British American Tobacco
  • STV
  • Sky
  • KFC
  • Big Issue
  • Reddit
  • ALD Automotive
  • Invesco
  • Meta
  • Argus Media
  • PZ Cussons
  • Dentsu
  • Pearson Education

Work highlights

  • Advised BAT on its partnership agreement with McLaren for Formula 1, including on the negotiation of a multi-year extension of the arrangement which includes on-car branding.
  • Advised STV on its renegotiation of certain rights in relation to distribution by STV of ITV digital content as well as advertising sales arrangements in respect of STV airtime.
  • Assisted The Big Issue Company Limited with the drafting and negotiation of an agency partnership agreement with the counterparty Publicis Media on behalf of Publicis' client Citroën.

Lawyers

Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Hayley Brady

Other key lawyers

James Balfour, Rachel Kane