Sullivan & Worcester has hired trade finance partner Robert Parson from Squire Patton Boggs, the second hire in as many months for its trade and export finance practice in London.
Parson brings more than 30 years of experience advising banks, non-bank investors, fintechs, credit insurers and traders on complex cross-border financing arrangements. He is widely recognised for his expertise in structured trade, inventory finance and the digitalisation of trade documents, as well as his knowledge of advisory work and trade-related disputes, including high-profile letters-of-credit litigation.
His arrival follows last month’s hire of Matthew Cox from HFW, bringing the number of full-time trade and export finance partners in Sullivan’s London office to seven, making it one of the largest trade finance legal teams in the City.
Geoffrey Wynne, head of Sullivan’s trade and export finance group and the firm’s London office, said: “Robert’s arrival cements our team as among the largest dedicated trade finance practices. His reputation in commodity and trade finance, including the digitalisation of trade and trade finance, as well as disputes, together with his industry advisory expertise, makes him an excellent fit for our practice.
“He brings extensive experience advising clients across the Middle East, Africa and Asia, bringing insight that will be invaluable to our clients and add real depth to our team.”
Parson leaves SPB after four years. Before joining SPB, he was a partner in Clyde & Co’s trade finance team for five years and at Reed Smith for nearly nine years, making partner in 2008. That blend of London and US law firm experience, plus membership of the ICC’s Banking Commission, gives him both national and international trade finance insights.
Parson said: “Sullivan’s trade and export finance reputation is well-established and highly respected. I’m excited to join the firm at such a pivotal time for the commodities and trade finance sectors. As global markets evolve and digital trade and related activities continue to grow, I look forward to helping strengthen the practice, supporting clients as they navigate increasingly complex challenges.”
Despite the recent hires, the firm lost trade and commodity finance partner Ellis Lawson to Dentons in June, the same month that Sullivan promoted Daniela Barrdear to partner.
Parson’s move to Sullivan comes as appetite for London finance hires continues apace, with Cadwalader hiring Andro Atlaga as a partner in the firm’s leveraged finance and private credit practice from King & Spalding.
Meanwhile at SPB, Parson’s departure coincides with the arrival of white-collar crime barrister Adina Ezekiel as a partner in London from Paul Hastings, where she was a specialist attorney, as well as sitting as a recorder – a part-time judge.
Ezekiel joins along with a senior associate, reporting to the firm’s London team leader, Hannah Laming. Earlier this month SPB also announced four significant senior hires in London and the regions to boost a range of practice areas.
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