Giles Kavanagh has won a second term as HFW’s senior partner.
Kavanagh, who led HFW’s global aerospace group for more than a decade before taking over in 2022 from longtime senior partner Richard Crump, will begin his second four-year term on 1 April 2026, at the beginning of the firm’s next financial year.
During his first term Kavanagh helped guide a period of growth in terms of footprint, headcount and revenue at HFW. Turnover increased more than 20%, hitting £270.8m in the 12 months to 31 March 2025, while 69 new partners joined the firm across its global network, which expanded with new offices in Brisbane and Shenzhen.
Kavanagh, who was considered one of London’s go-to aviation disputes lawyers, also oversaw HFW implementing a new growth strategy at the start of FY23 intended to make it the leading sector-focused law firm globally.
That followed the firm growing its footprint in the Middle East, Australia, China and the US during Crump’s 15 years at the helm, as well as broadening its focus from its traditional areas of shipping and insurance to become a full-service law firm that values transactions as highly as it does disputes, with a clearer brand and sharper messaging.
Jeremy Shebson, who is currently serving a second term as HFW’s managing partner, said Kavanagh’s re-election “reflects the confidence we have in his leadership and the strategic direction of the firm”.
Shebson added: “He brings energy, clarity and a steadfast commitment to our people and clients. I look forward to continuing our strong partnership as we pursue the next phase of the firm’s global strategy.”
HFW reported last July that its revenue and profit had each grown by more than a third (36% and 42% respectively) since the introduction of its current growth strategy, while profit per equity partner was up 24% over that same three-year period, reaching £828k.
All of its global groups – aerospace, commodities, construction, corporate and commercial, insurance and shipping – grew revenue in FY25.
“I’m honoured to have been entrusted once again with the responsibility of helping lead our business with our managing partner, Jeremy Shebson,” Kavanagh said. “I believe there are significant opportunities for HFW and I’m looking forward to building on momentum we have established as we continue to drive growth, support our people and deliver outstanding service to our clients.”
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