Counting global businesses, blue-chip corporates and private equity houses amongst its key clients, Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP’s ‘really collaborative, practical’ team stands out for its advice on cross-border M&A and minority investment transactions. The group demonstrates considerable expertise across the financial services, energy and TMT industries, with the head Catherine Eley bringing vast knowledge on complex disposals and joint ventures to the outfit. Steven Hacking is experienced in handling corporate transactions in the life sciences space, Nigel Cooke primarily focuses on multi-jurisdictional acquisitions, while Louise Finnie acts on behalf of private equity clients. Mark Beardmore retired from practising in April 2024.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Really collaborative, practical and commercial. Great to work with, always sees the clients' point of view, but is not afraid to give strong advice when it is required.’

  • ‘Nigel Cooke is a very practical and excellent advisor. A strong communicator, with the ability to break down complex legal issues into simple points which enables clean decision making. Very likeable and easy to work with, even in negotiations with other side. Most parties end up agreeing with him as he has a very practical and agreeable style that always delivers commercial outcomes that are best for the client.’

  • ‘Great depth and bench strength within the team. Very client-focused and supportive with client initiatives.'

  • ‘James Finney is across the details and provides an excellent service. Catherine Eley is very client focused.’

  • ‘Responsive, proactive, knowledgeable.’

  • ‘Ability to provide an end-to-end service, covering multiple disciplines whilst maintaining a single point of contact.’

  • ‘Responsive and always provide excellent commercial advice.’

  • ‘Steven Hacking has been an excellent relationship partner, ensuring we are being supported for whatever the project - employment law, administration, property or corporate advice. It is truly appreciated. David Gray was a standout support. Always at the end of a phone.’

Key clients

  • Livingbridge and the management shareholders of Direct Ferries
  • Livingbridge LLP
  • Gresham House plc
  • Performance Health Holdings, Inc.
  • Mitchells & Butlers plc
  • Howden Insurance
  • Musgrave Investments Limited
  • CRH plc
  • Shareholders of Rhubarb Hospitality Group
  • LPA Group plc

Lawyers

Leading partners
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.

Catherine Eley

Other key lawyers

Steven Hacking, Nigel Cooke, Louise Finnie, Mark Beardmore, Tom Milburn