International law firm Bird & Bird has appointed Tech Transactions specialist Sue McLean as a new partner in its London Commercial team.
Sue brings over 25 years’ experience advising on high-value and business critical technology transactions. Her practice focuses on complex cloud, outsourcing and digital transformation deals, as well as strategic technology development and licensing arrangements. She also regularly supports clients with their roll-outs of new tech-based products and services.
A key element of Sue’s practice involves advising clients on the key legal and regulatory issues arising from the development and deployment of emerging technologies, including AI, blockchain and crypto-assets, with particular expertise advising clients on their responsible AI governance programmes and AI-driven transactional projects.
Sue provides strategic counsel on the technology and commercial aspects of M&A transactions, including negotiating high-value ancillary and transitional agreements in connection with acquisitions, disposals, carve-outs and joint ventures. She advises clients across a range of industry sectors, including tech, financial services and fintech, consumer goods and retail and life sciences. Her clients include some of the world’s best known tech companies and multinational corporations. She also enjoys working with emerging and growth companies.
Sue is the Chair of the Society of Computers and Law and was recently named in the Innovate Finance Women in Fintech Powerlist Hall of Fame.
Ronald Hendrikx, co-head of Bird & Bird’s international Tech & Comms group, said: “Sue’s appointment reflects our continued investment in our international technology practice. Her deep understanding of evolving technology ecosystems, regulatory developments and cross-border transactions aligns strongly with our sector-focused strategy. She will play an important role in supporting clients both in London and across our global network.”
Phil Sherrell, Head of London at Bird & Bird, said: “We are delighted to welcome Sue to the firm. She brings extensive experience advising on some of the most significant technology transactions in the market. Her expertise across cloud, digital transformation and emerging technologies, combined with strong commercial judgement, will further strengthen our ability to support clients navigating increasingly sophisticated tech-driven change.”
Sue McLean adds: “Bird & Bird’s strategic focus on technology is truly embedded across the firm. I am really excited to join a team with such a clear vision and strong market profile. The firm’s sector expertise, international reach and collaborative culture provide an outstanding platform to further develop my technology and fintech practice.”
