Perkins Coie opens London office to establish new tech-focused corporate practice

Perkins Coie has launched a new office in London to establish a technology-focused corporate practice in Europe's financial hub.

The new office will begin operations with a team of six lawyers led by corporate lawyer Ian Bagshaw, who previously served as co-head of the global private equity group at White & Case LLP. Bagshaw will be joined by Jan Andrusko, who will take the role of European head of M&A, along with three additional partners and one senior counsel.

The office, strategically located in London’s financial district, aims to cater to European companies and investors, focusing on high-growth tech companies, mid-market private equity funds, and family offices.

Building on its U.S. expertise in advising leading technology companies, Perkins Coie aims to bring its successful track record to Europe. The London office is expected to provide comprehensive legal services to tech companies and their founders.

“We’re energized by the many opportunities we’ve identified to serve clients in London and across Europe,” said Bill Malley, Perkins Coie’s firmwide managing partner. “We aim to quickly become a leading advisor and law firm of choice for European companies and private equity firms navigating the technological and economic disruptions of our era.”   

The firm's strategic expansion into London is part of its commitment to growing its international presence and enhancing its capabilities beyond the U.S. and Asia. Jason Day, firmwide co-chair of Perkins Coie’s corporate practice, emphasized the importance of London as a gateway to both Europe and the U.S., stating, “Our vision is to build out our European team based in London with the best talent. London is a gateway to both Europe and the U.S., and we plan to continue growing there to create a unique network of European talent that will serve clients seamlessly across the continent.”  

Bagshaw’s experience includes serving as co-head of the private equity practice at Linklaters and as a partner with Clifford Chance LLP. He also has a notable role in various boards, including as chair of Zero Gravity, a UK-based digital platform connecting students in underserved areas with leading universities and companies.

“Ian and Jan are market-leading corporate lawyers who have represented sophisticated companies and funds across Europe,” said Brian Eiting, firmwide co-chair of Perkins Coie’s corporate practice. “This team truly checks every box, bringing a shared strategic mindset, an outstanding professional pedigree and a strong cultural fit.” 

Bagshaw expressed his enthusiasm for joining Perkins Coie, stating, “This is a unique opportunity to join an incredible firm with an energetic and focused group of high-performing lawyers, and we’re excited to get to work on our clients’ behalf.” 

In addition to Ian Bagshaw, the Perkins Coie London team includes:

• Jan Andrusko: European head of M&A, previously a partner at White & Case.
• Jan Stejskal: partner specializing in private equity transactions and cross-border M&A, from White & Case.
• Craig Fagan: UK-qualified lawyer with extensive experience in private equity, M&A, and corporate transactions, formerly general counsel at Bud Financial Group.
• Barry O’Driscoll: Partner with extensive experience in corporate transactions, including private equity and IPOs, previously general counsel of a SaaS business.
• Jan Jakoubek: Senior counsel concentrating on M&A, commercial and media law, and corporate finance from White & Case.

Perkins Coie now has 21 offices across the United States, Asia, and Europe, supporting clients globally.