Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan has hired litigator Gemma Anderson as a partner in London from rival US firm Morrison & Foerster.

Anderson leaves MoFo after 14 years, seven as a partner, and is the fourth partner lateral secured by Quinn Emanuel in London in 2023.

She originally qualified as a New Zealand solicitor and barrister before moving to London in 2009 and specialises in privacy and data protection as well as insolvency, technology and contractual disputes. She advises clients across a host of industries on high-end commercial litigation and has extensive experience in international arbitration. 

High-profile work includes recently representing Softbank Group over an ongoing $440m claim by Credit Suisse in connection to the collapse of Greensill Capital. Quinn Emanuel has since replaced MoFo as Softbank Group’s adviser, having acted for Softbank’s Vision Fund entities since May 2023.

GLP understands Anderson will not immediately be assigned to the SoftBank/Vision Fund team within her new firm, but may work on the matter in the future. 

Anderson, who also represented Fujitsu Services in the Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry, said: “Having worked as co-counsel with Quinn Emanuel on a large dispute, I know all about the talent and drive within the firm’s London office. Its entrepreneurial nature and reputation for winning the most difficult cases is second to none, and I anticipate a great fit from a cultural and practice perspective.”

Richard East, Quinn Emanuel’s senior partner in London, said: “Gemma is an excellent lawyer with all the qualities required to succeed at Quinn Emanuel. She will be a great addition to our London practice.”

Its founder and chairman, John Quinn, said Anderson would “make a significant contribution to the growth of our fast-expanding London office”. 

The hire brings Quinn Emanuel’s partner count to 29 in London, alongside nearly 90 associates and counsel. Arbitration partner Melis Acuner joined from Cadwalader Wickersham & Taft in September, IP partner David Lancaster arrived from Pinsent Masons in August, and competition partner Lambros Kilaniotis moved across from RPC in January 2023. 

The London office posted a 5% increase in revenue for the 2022 financial year, with fee income climbing to £133.6m from £127.3m against a 10% increase in profit to £94.9m.