Employment

Withers is renowned for its employment advice to senior professionals, including those working in media, technology and financial services. The team advises these clients on contract negotiations at the beginning of their employment, right through to exit negotiations. The lawyers at Withers are also highly capable when it comes to disputes resulting from breakdowns of those employment relationships. The team also works with employer clients, focusing on representing mid-sized financial services groups and high-end brands. It also has notable expertise in advising on regulatory employment matters.

"Withers take the time to fully understand our issues and propose resolutions to quickly evolving situations. Nothing is ever too much trouble, and their advice is complete and considered."

"The team are really quick to respond to our queries, which reassures us when dealing with time-sensitive and tricky matters."

"Withers are extremely competent and knowledgeable, always thinking of all possible aspects and scenarios. There is always someone able to help with a wide variety of expertise."

Withers advised Formula One team Aston Martin Racing Cognizant regarding contracts, day-to-day employment matters and post-termination restraints.

Withers acted for Ben Van Beurden on his retirement as CEO from Shell, as well as for Wael Sawan as incoming CEO.

Co-lead of the employer practice at Withers, Claire Christy is distinguished by her wide-ranging employment practice. She is well regarded for her work with Italian-headquartered companies. "Claire makes stressful moments manageable. I feel safe that my interests are being looked after by someone with a very high level of knowledge." "She is incredibly bright, very engaging and a fantastic negotiator. You can throw anything at her and she will do a wonderful job." "Claire has an outstanding grasp of what we are facing and our options for how to proceed. She is excellent at communicating the advice in straightforward terms and keeping discussions on track."

Alexandra Thompson is a senior associate who acts as a key resource to a number of organisations seeking guidance on general HR matters, as well as employment grievances. "I like Alexandra's pragmatism - she is able to give us advice but in a way that is aware of our risk and what it means in real life, including the legal perspective in relation to our business objectives." "She is always a pleasure to work with."