Kennedys has hired a cohort of lawyers and support staff from Norton Rose Fulbright (NRF) which the firm says strengthens their marine and energy capabilities. The 12-strong insurance coverage and disputes team is based in the London office.

Following suit

The team’s arrival follows the appointment of finance director Jo Woods, who joined the firm in April from NRF, bringing experience from working across different sectors and for high-profile professional services organisations. The team comprises three partners, Patrick Foss, Chris Zavos and Jo Ward, along with seven other lawyers and two support staff. The team represent Lloyd’s syndicates and global insurers. Patrick Foss brings over 30 years’ experience working in insurance law. His practice is primarily focused on coverage, defence and disputes work in marine, offshore and onshore energy, terrorism, trade credit and political risk. Chris Zavos qualified in 1991 and has extensive experience in advising on complex coverage as well as liability defence, subrogation and sanctions issues. Jo Ward’s practice is focused on marine insurance coverage work including hull & machinery, cargo, liability, mortgagee’s interest, ports and terminals and specie. Other lawyers joining are: Senior Associates, Amy Byrne, Anna Haigh and Debbie Larkin; and Associates Jake Hooper, Imogen Lowe, Suzy Oakley and Rachel Pearce.

Insurers seek legal advisors

Nick Thomas, senior partner at Kennedys, says “Insurer clients are increasingly looking for their legal advisors to provide a full service offering in respect of all classes of insurance.” Chris Dunn, global head of marine at Kennedys, adds “We have known Chris, Patrick, Jo and their team for many years and we are proud to be welcoming them to Kennedys. Our clients have been very supportive of this development as it widens our talent pool by increasing our strength and depth.” Mr Zavos explained, “Our expertise will add to the firm's already highly regarded marine and energy practice, helping to build its premier marine offering to the London and international markets, as well as complementing its capabilities throughout Europe, Middle East, Asia Pacific, and the Americas and Bermuda.” This news follows the firm’s merger with boutique marine and shipping law firm Waltons & Morse in 2016 and the hire of a five-strong team of partners from Mayer Brown in 2018.