Department profile
Bird & Bird

Information Technology & Outsourcing

UK Guide 2026 : London (Firms)

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Bird & Bird

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Information Technology & Outsourcing - London (Firms)

Band 1

What the Team is Known For
Bird & Bird is considered to be at the summit of commercial law as applied to science and technology. It draws upon bench strength from across multiple jurisdictions to advise on large-scale projects in industries such as retail, defence and financial services. It is particularly expert in the fields of data protection and communications. The team is highly recommended for digital transformation and the implementation of ambitious technology infrastructure projects.
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Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Bird & Bird supported Allwyn Group as it assumes responsibility for the operation of the UK National Lottery. The firm advised on Allywn's technology transformation programme and IT and outsourcing contracts.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Bird & Bird has excellent experience and knowledge working on large-scale technology procurement matters. The team has a friendly and approachable manner.

    Information Technology & Outsourcing respondentUK

  • They provide holistic and commercial advice, capturing potential risks that we as a business may not have been aware of. The lawyers' advice is practical and commercial.

    Information Technology & Outsourcing respondentUK

  • They are subject matter experts. Bird & Bird has highly competent lawyers with an eye for the overarching commercial reality.

    Information Technology & Outsourcing respondentUK

  • The team is excellent. What sets them apart is that they have a deep understanding of our sector - not just from a legal perspective, but also from a technical perspective.

    Information Technology & Outsourcing respondentUK

  • The lawyers offer clear, pragmatic advice and are able to scale resources to meet tight timelines and the client's requirements.

    Information Technology & Outsourcing respondentUK

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Graham Smith
    Graham Smith

    Graham Smith

    Graham Smith advises on high-value technology implementation mandates, compliance with cyber law rules and software copyright-related disputes. He is experienced in litigation concerning cryptocurrencies.
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  • Roger Bickerstaff
    Roger Bickerstaff

    Roger Bickerstaff

    Roger Bickerstaff is sought out for digital transformation and artificial intelligence projects by leading tech companies, government agencies and corporate customers.
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  • Christian Bartsch
    Christian Bartsch

    Christian Bartsch

    Christian Bartsch is CEO of Bird & Bird and is particularly well known for his work with financial services customers and technology multinationals. He is a noted expert on large-scale implementation and outsourcing arrangements.
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  • Mark Leach
    Mark Leach

    Mark Leach

    Mark Leach is well known for his specialist knowledge of business and technology outsourcing. He acts for both customers and suppliers.

    • Mark has a real depth of knowledge in technology deals and immensely helpful experience in negotiations.

      Information Technology & Outsourcing respondentUK
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  • Sue McLean
    Sue McLean

    Sue McLean

    Sue McLean advises an enviable client roster including Silicon Valley technology companies, professional advisers and multinational customers on sourcing and implementation arrangements. She is an expert on fintech, AI and blockchain technology.

    • Sue is highly personable, pragmatic and gets the job done.

      Information Technology & Outsourcing respondentUK

    • Sue is a complete superstar. She has deep technology law expertise combined with a pragmatic commercial focus, candour and importantly, good humour.

      Information Technology & Outsourcing respondentUK

    • Sue is approachable, pragmatic and understands business priorities.

      Information Technology & Outsourcing respondentUK
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  • Ian Edwards
    Ian Edwards

    Ian Edwards

    Ian Edwards has noteworthy expertise advising clients on a range of complex technology matters, including transformation projects, SaaS licensing and AI.

    • Ian is a true thought partner with a unique ability to articulate complex matters into plain English.

      Information Technology & Outsourcing respondentUK

    • Ian is super-bright and commercial. He is extremely responsive and can be relied upon for excellent support.

      Information Technology & Outsourcing respondentUK

    • Ian is very responsive, adaptable and easy to work with.

      Information Technology & Outsourcing respondentUK
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  • Jonathan Emmanuel
    Jonathan Emmanuel

    Jonathan Emmanuel

    Jonathan Emmanuel provides adept representation of clients in technology-related contractual negotiations and customer agreements in the fintech sector.

    • Jonathan drives the most complex drafting or contract mechanisms forward, and is very well-versed in industry developments and issues to look out for.

      Information Technology & Outsourcing respondentUK

    • Jonathan is very knowledgeable in his area and provides practical and commercial advice.

      Information Technology & Outsourcing respondentUK
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Ranked Individuals at Bird & Bird (7)

London (Firms)

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