Ashurst's full-service corporate occupiers offering counts asset management, market leading acquisitions and disposals, and real estate finance within its scope of work. Acting for investment banks, developers, and real estate funds, and for landlords and tenants alike, the group also handles the acquisition and leasing of office headquarter buildings and green lease drafting. The team is collectively led by Sarah Sivyour, transactional real estate expert who handles the sale and leaseback of real estate portfolios, Richard Vernon, who is lauded for his strengths in real estate sustainability work, and David Jones, who concentrates on the global real estate investment market.

Securing an impressive range of big-ticket engagements, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner’s department leverages its network of offices across the UK to advise on high-end commercial property and real estate matters. Engaged in asset management matters and high-value transactional work, the firm’s expertise extends to mixed-use, commercial, and residential projects, and often within the life sciences, logistics, and student accommodation sectors. The practice is jointly led by Nazir Dewji and Samant Narula. Industry veteran Alan Wight specialises in landlord and tenant matters and global corporate occupier transactions, while Juliet Thomas is noted for her expertise in commercial real estate matters, and Chris Rowe is recommended for his strengths in large-scale development and urban regeneration schemes. Emma Le Wita focuses on commercial property matters, primarily acting for institutional landlords and occupational tenants. Robert MacGregor retired in September 2023.

The ‘highly responsive, commercial, and friendly’ corporate occupiers practice at Clifford Chance LLP remains at the forefront of the field, frequently handling complex and large-scale transactions. Acting for both landlords and occupiers, the group advises on the termination and assignment of lease arrangements, lease negotiations, and pre-lettings. Drawing from its corporate and finance expertise, the team benefits from a steady pipeline of banking sector and corporate clients. Nigel Howorth oversees the department and focuses on planning and property development, primarily within the energy and renewables space. Angela Kearns is reputed for her involvement in high-value real estate and infrastructure transactions, often in the film studio and logistics sectors, while the ‘extremely knowledgeable’ Ian Painter advises investors on major developments in London, particularly within the healthcare market. Matt Taylor handles real estate investment transactions globally, whereas Alis Pay advises international investors on pan-European real estate portfolio transactions. Ben Redding acts for corporate occupiers on their global headquarters relocation, and James Law advises on real estate finance.

Praised by clients for being ‘extremely trustworthy’, the department at CMS counts global investors, tech corporations, and fund managers amongst its key roster of clients. Acting across the retail, life sciences, data centre, and logistics industries, the team is proficient in real estate finance, development projects, indirect investment, and real estate funds. The experienced Marie Scott is lauded for her work in data centre development, while John Cumpson concentrates on mixed-use developments and landlord and tenant matters, and Andrew Banton offers expertise in commercial property work, often advising on occupational office portfolios and restructurings. Jules Needleman is a key contact for corporate occupiers on London headquarters transactions, and Mark Heighton is noted for handling office premises work, particularly in the higher education sector.

With a ‘depth of knowledge across the bench’, the corporate occupiers’ team at Herbert Smith Freehills LLP illustrates expertise in complex and high-value transactions, regularly advising asset managers, institutional investors, and listed REITs. The group’s scope of work includes regeneration schemes, disposal strategies, portfolio asset management, and prime central London pre-lets. Jeremy Walden advises real estate and infrastructure clients on investments. Industry veteran Donald Rowlands is reputed for his work on mixed-use development sites and letting and finance transactions, Nicholas Turner focuses on commercial property and developments involving rail and underground assets, and Richard Forsdyke advises on multi-phased development projects locally and globally. Julian Pollock is a key contact for real estate energy and infrastructure projects, David Rosen handles structured investment transactions, Simon Elliott covers pre-lets, and Sebastian Taylor concentrates on the redevelopment of major assets. Shona Grey, Paul Chases, and Alex Wright all demonstrate expertise in corporate real estate matters.

With demonstrable expertise in the corporate occupier space, Mayer Brown International LLP adopts an interdisciplinary approach by liaising with its tax, finance, planning, and environmental disciplines. Acting for major property corporations and private equity funds, the firm handles leasing and asset management work, the relocations of UK headquarters, development schemes, and works across the office, residential, and commercial spaces. Chris Harvey illustrates skill in complex investment and development transactions for Asian, US, and European clients, while Andrew Hepner focuses on structured real estate finance, advising both lenders and sponsors. Iain Roberts is recommended for his strengths in high-value investment transactions and mixed-use property development, whereas Caroline Humble frequently acts for major private equity real estate clients. Simon Price is noted for his expertise in the acquisition and disposal of real estate assets and holding structures.

Reputed for its ‘exemplary service’, the corporate occupier’s team at Norton Rose Fulbright counts investors, developers, and institutional landlords amongst its key roster of clients, particularly within the hospitality, logistics, and industrial sectors. The group handles the negotiation of commercial leases, pre-letting negotiations, lease restructuring and refurbishment contracts, often working in tandem with the firm’s corporate, finance, and tax disciplines. David Hawkins oversees the offering and covers real estate development and investment, mainly for international investors. Dan Wagerfield concentrates on large-scale development and regeneration projects, primarily in Asia, while Wasim Khan advises domestic and global clients on major office relocations. Charlie Pinkerton specialises in key headquarters moves, whereas ‘exceptional partner’ Louisa Roe is lauded for her work in complex leasing transactions and real estate investment. Helen Finnis advises occupiers across the retail and energy fields, and Peter Lewis covers investment acquisition and disposals and property finance transactions.

The ‘very well resourced’ corporate occupiers’ team at Slaughter and May undertakes high-quality work across the spectrum of matters, ranging from headquarters developments and complex real estate portfolio strategies, to the construction elements of real estate projects. The experienced Jane Edwarde anchors the practice and frequently acts for various global household name clients on acquisitions, disposals, real estate finance, and leasing. The ‘approachable, knowledgeable, and solution oriented’ John Nevin has experience in advising law firms on headquarter relocations and major lettings, while the ‘excellent and responsive’ Simon Bartle covers the property aspects of major corporate deals. Mark Gulliford is well-versed in landlord and tenant matters.

Leveraging its global network, Baker McKenzie is well positioned to advise its impressive clientele, which consists of major global corporations and blue-chip clients. The team’s portfolio of work spans real estate finance, complex lease restructurings, sales and acquisitions, high value headquarters lettings, and development projects. Justin Salkeld oversees the practice and is highly experienced in the field, advising banks and borrowers on operational and investment real estate assets. Ben Farnell concentrates on commercial property law, real estate sustainability and planning and development, while Stefanie Price covers the real estate elements of corporate transactions and commercial acquisitions for overseas investors. Jack Rubin is a key contact for real estate finance and construction matters, frequently assisting property investment companies and various corporate occupiers.

The ‘commercial and proactive’ team at Bristows LLP undertakes local and cross-border work, frequently advising on headquarters relocations for global professional services firms, acquisitions and disposals, and real estate portfolios. The group demonstrates strengths in the tech, life sciences, and retail sectors. ‘Highly knowledgeable’ Tim Allen leads the practice and concentrates on sale and leaseback deals, high value landlord and tenant matters, and build-to-rent development projects. Teresa Edmund primarily assists tech companies and charities with various real estate matters, while Hedley Tipton handles complex leases, and Suzanne Hooks focuses on real estate finance.

Reputed for their ‘expertise and commerciality’, and with bases in Bristol and London, the practice at Burges Salmon LLP advises an array of top global and UK-based corporations. The firm’s scope of work includes the negotiation and termination of leases, high value rent reviews, and headquarters relocations. The group routinely works in tandem with its general real estate practice, which handles development and construction, and property finance. Richard Clark draws from his ample transactional real estate experience to assist clients with large scale development projects, whereas James Sutherland covers landlord and tenant disputes, in addition to business tenancy renewals. Richard Read regularly acts for domestic and foreign investors on various real estate matters, Matthew Sims concentrates on complex portfolio management work for retail and office sector clients, and Will Hall handles corporate occupier work in the industrial and logistics industries.

Lauded for its ‘excellent coordination of skillsets’, the corporate occupiers team at DAC Beachcroft LLP advises on asset management, high value lettings, development and construction, and direct real estate disposals and acquisitions. Working across the education, healthcare, retail, and leisure sectors, the team also handles portfolio management and landlord and tenant work. Manchester-based Alison Key leads the practice and is ably supported by Glenn Ruddy, who assists private property companies and consortiums with real estate finance, and Andrew Boulton, who covers real estate investment. Madeline Ball is recognised for her commercial real estate work across the public and private sector, and Steven Pitchford advises listed companies on major property development projects. Dean Parrett assists clients with leasehold and freehold disposals, whereas John Noonan handles commercial investment and development in the industrial and transport fields.

Clients praise the department at Davitt Jones Bould for its ‘excellent communication, collaboration, and transparency’. The firm advises on the full gamut of corporate occupier matters, ranging from lease portfolio management, pre-lets, asset management strategies, and the development of new offices, often advising local and international household names. Peter Allinson and Madeleine Davitt jointly head the group, with Davitt frequently leading large scale real estate projects. John Condliffe demonstrates transactional experience and has helped in developing distribution hubs for major retailers, Teresa Kamppari Baker advises developers and real estate investors, and Melanie Greer-Walker handles commercial property mandates. Sean Bulman focuses on real estate portfolio management, Philippa Hipwell’s strengths include landlord and tenant work, and Louisa Swanton advises on real estate matters in the agricultural sector. Clients come to Gillian Lewis for assistance on investment and corporate occupier work, whereas Mary Anderson is a key contact for real estate finance matters.

Leveraging its international presence, Dentons acts for foreign investors investing in the UK, in addition to an array of major global clients in the life sciences and retail sectors. The group demonstrates tenacity in handling developments, acquisitions, real estate portfolio management, and refinancings. Rob Thompson anchors the practice and concentrates on developments and complex corporate real estate mandates, often advising private equity houses and real estate funds. Simon Masri is involved in work in the hospitality industry, primarily acting on structured investment acquisitions and joint ventures. Alex Coulter is proficient in transactional real estate matters, focusing on asset management and development in the logistics and office fields.

Recognised by clients for its ‘commercial and personable’ approach, the practice at DLA Piper counts financial institutions and investors amongst its key roster of clients. Leveraging its global presence, the firm regularly undertakes cross-border work, and advises on site acquisitions and developments for corporate occupier clients. Paul Jayson anchors the department and demonstrates expertise in real estate development projects, asset management, leases, and the relocation of offices in London. Nicholas Haringman is recommended for his strengths in managing real estate portfolios, in addition to management work relating to industrial, retail, and office assets.

The ‘exceptional’ team at Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP remains a dominant force in the corporate occupier space, strengthened by its impressive clientele which includes leading global tech and life science companies, hedge funds, and financial services firms. In addition to managing large scale pre-lets, the firm also handles high profile headquarters relocations and real estate development projects. The team lies under the guidance of  Tom Goldsmith, who specialises in complex headquarters pre-lets for US tech sector giants. Gareth Ashfield covers real estate developments and government hub projects, while Lucy Chadwick is a go-to for construction matters, particularly within city developments. Chris Mullings advises UK property companies on landlord matters, Natasha Osment focuses on serviced offices and blue-chip occupiers, and Emma Shepheard assists institutional investors on various leasing transactions and build-to-rent acquisitions.

Praised by clients for its ‘pragmatic and sensible approach’, the practice at Fieldfisher demonstrates expertise in real estate development projects, complex lettings, and real estate finance, primarily in the industrial, retail, and healthcare fields. The group is co-led by Antony Philips and Paul Houston, who is known for his work in the hotel and leisure sector, particularly in relation to the rollout of branded hotel and leisure concepts. Jayne Elkins is a key contact for commercial property work and is experienced in large scale sales and purchases, and indirect property investment. Rhodri Pazzi-Axworthy concentrates on acquisitions and disposals of real estate assets, while Laura Mackenzie handles investment sales and purchases in the logistics and office sectors, and Ramatu Banga advises on real estate portfolio management. Gary Pickard assists telecoms sector clients with transactional real estate matters.

Boasting a stellar client base comprising global household names, Forsters LLP concentrates on advising tenants in corporate occupier transactions. The practice lies under the guidance of experienced Glenn Dunn, who advises clients from the media and finance sectors on lease portfolio management and corporate headquarters relocations. Sarah Cook handles non-contentious construction matters, while Ben Barrison covers property disputes relating to the occupation of business premises. Owen Spencer concentrates on corporate relocations, whereas Lorna Dolan illustrates strengths in real estate strategy and lettings.

At Lewis Silkin, the corporate occupiers team operates across the marketing, luxury retail, tech, and hospitality industries, and adopts a multidisciplinary approach by collaborating with its employment and commercial property teams. The group handles high value headquarters relocations, redevelopments of historically significant buildings, and real estate portfolio management for high-net-worth individuals. Brian Kilcoyne leads the department. The ‘diligent and responsive’ Rachel Francis-Lang advises on acquisitions and disposals, and the negotiation of commercial leases, while Julia Poulter covers landlord and tenant work and the property elements of M&A deals. Patrick Brown concentrates on commercial real estate and mixed-use development projects, and Laura Bougourd assists corporate occupiers with real estate investment work.

Lauded for its ‘highly conscientious, thoughtful, and supportive’ approach, the team at Wedlake Bell LLP liaises with its tax and planning disciplines to advise on green leases, strategic portfolio reviews, and high-profile headquarters leases. David De Maupeou anchors the firm’s London practice. Sarah Blunn primarily acts for investors, developers, tenants, and landlords on the acquisition, development, and sale of prime properties, while Suzanne Gill advises hospitality and life sciences sector clients on real estate development projects. Leah Freeman is a key contact for clients in the luxury retail space, and frequently handles property portfolios, whereas Ben Dunbar covers landlord and tenant matters.

A&O Shearman advises both landlords and tenants on significant headquarters relocations in prime London locations, rent revies, exit issues, and construction matters. Christopher Woolf leads the practice and frequently advises private equity funds and institutional investors on investment acquisitions and disposals, and the sale and purchase of corporate property holding companies. Nick Saner is well-versed in commercial real estate transactions and the establishment of real estate joint ventures, whereas Emma Willoughby handles the real estate elements of investment and development financings.

The corporate occupiers team at BDB Pitmans is led by Jonathan Fewster, who demonstrates expertise in commercial real estate matters such as acquisitions and disposals, in addition to advising charities on restructuring investment portfolios. Dennis Ko is a go-to for landlord and tenant matters and the development and sale of UK property, particularly for clients in the Middle East. Emma Roche is well-versed in assisting domestic and offshore private wealth clients in real estate portfolio management and complex leasehold structures, whereas Sarah Godfrey concentrates on grants and leases of commercial and mixed-use property.

Praised by clients for its ‘strong leadership’, Charles Russell Speechlys LLP works with its tax and planning disciplines to advise on exit strategies, sales and leasebacks, and headquarter relocations, often for regulators, regional corporates, and investors. Lee Medlock oversees the group and advises occupiers and private equity firms in the leisure sector on various matters, and is ably supported by Louise Ward, who focuses on life sciences real estate, and Sarah Morley, a key contact for headquarters lettings and the rationalisation of space. Emma Carter is well-versed in purchases, disposals, and joint venture investments, Cara Imbrailo concentrates on the Central London real estate investment market, and the ‘technically proficient’ Eddie Richards handles energy and infrastructure real estate work. Sarah Keens covers landlord and tenant work, while Lynsey Inglis handles real estate finance and commercial property matters, and Ben Butterworth specialises in the real estate elements of M&A deals.

Cripps’ corporate occupier practice acts for professional services firms and tech corporations on relocations, refurbishments, and exit strategies. Oliver Morris illustrates strength in large scale head office relocations, where recent work highlights include advising on lease expiries, ESG requirements, and flexible workspaces. Ed Fowler is recommended for assisting luxury national and global retailers on breaking into prime London retail space, while the ‘proactive’ Elizabeth Robertson advises property investors and landlords on development and infrastructure matters.

Recognised for its ‘knowledge, commitment, and commerciality’, the team at Fladgate LLP advises retailers and major office occupiers on head office relocations, lettings, and landlord and tenant work. Stephen Lewis leads the team and is well-versed in handling various corporate occupational requirements for US-based clients. Kirsty Corkum illustrates expertise in mixed-use development projects, particularly in the leisure and office spaces, while Gideon Dabby-Joory concentrates on advising private equity real estate funds on investment and development work. Clients come to James Fry for assistance on commercial real estate matters in the hotel industry, whereas Alan Karsberg advises investors and corporate occupiers on complex portfolio transactions and pre-lets.

Praised by clients for being a ‘strong team with lots of experience’, Fox Williams LLP advises tech companies, institutional landlords, and venture capitalist firms on the negotiation of lease terms and the management of property portfolios. Regularly liaising with its construction and tax departments, the team lies under the guidance of Phillip Hope, who often handles lease acquisitions for private wealth management funds. Nish Kapoor is reputed for his experience in advising banks and software companies on headquarters acquisitions, commercial real estate strategy, and net zero developments. Elizabeth Ruff concentrates on acting for professional services firms on commercial real estate matters, while Rebecca Facey advises Hong Kong-based inward investor clients on the real estate elements of corporate sales and acquisitions. Mary Majewska covers commercial acquisitions and disposals, whereas Stephen Browne handles complex lease restructurings.

Lauded for having an ‘impressively unique practice’, Glovers Solicitors LLP has ample experience in advising restaurant operators, cinemas, and retail luxury brands. The group is well-versed in property acquisitions and disposals, real estate portfolio management, and lease renewals. The experienced Philip Shotter heads the team and concentrates on occupier work in the hospitality and leisure industry. Shotter is ably supported by Paul Jagger, who assists asset managers on licenses and lease interpretation matters.

At Gowling WLG, the corporate occupiers team collaborates with its environmental, planning, and construction practices to advise on acquisitions, developments and leases of headquarters building, and real estate investment. Operating across the retail and life sciences sectors, Chris Hunt leads the team alongside Helen Emmerson, who advises on various real estate matters relating to renewables and alternative energy projects. Emma Pioli covers asset management matters, and frequently handles property portfolios, while Felicity Lindsay advises both landlords and tenants on large-scale office developments and lettings. Dan Gwilliam assists institutional investors with high profile acquisitions and disposals, whereas Kay Desai is well-versed in coordinating corporate spaces such as offices and warehouses.

The ‘excellent’ team at GSC Solicitors LLP handles relocations and landlord and tenant work, often acting for high-net-worth individuals and hotel owners. Harvey Posener oversees the practice, drawing from his experience in commercial property transactions, primarily focusing on advising corporate occupiers on leasing matters. Peter Belcher concentrates on the hotel and leisure fields, advising on acquisitions and development, while Matthew Phillips covers real estate development projects for private equity funds. Amee Popat’s core workflows include assisting with the acquisitions of headquarters buildings, and Ran Yu is a key contact for property management, acquisitions, and disposals.

Commended for its ‘excellent attention to detail’, the group at Harbottle & Lewis LLP handles commercial lettings, real estate portfolio management, and property agreements for film and television production studios. Working across the retail, hospitality, and office sectors, Melanie Benson leads the team, drawing from her experience in landlord and tenant matters, in addition to high end residential work for offshore clients. Leo Marino is noted for his strengths in commercial property, and regularly advises property investors and investment syndicates office plots, while Matthew Stephenson’s scope of work includes commercial landlord and tenant work for clients in the healthcare field.

The ‘commercial and responsive’ team at Hill Dickinson LLP draws from its global network of offices across Europe and Asia to advise global banks, insurance companies, and foreign investors. Adopting a multidisciplinary approach, the group regularly coordinates with its construction, tax, and planning disciplines. Jim Garton leads the offering and specialises on real estate work in the hotel and leisure sectors. The ‘intelligent’ Alastair Moss focuses on real estate finance and investment, often acting for major retailers, while Richard Taylor is recommended for his strengths in acquisitions, developments, and disposals, particularly in the casino industry. Paul O’ Brien is a key contact for transactional mandates, real estate finance, and landlord and tenant matters, while Sam O’Doherty illustrates expertise in energy, infrastructure, and tech real estate projects, and Emma McIntosh covers commercial and residential property work.

Praised by clients for its ‘steadfast’ approach, Howard Kennedy LLP advises major global names from the hospitality and luxury goods industries on acquisitions, disposals, planning, and construction. Lydia Christie focuses on retail developments and leads the team alongside Anthony Hunt, who assists national and foreign investors and developers on hotel projects. Julian Hindmarsh is noted for his work in commercial real estate, particularly in relation to freehold and leasehold work, while Vanessa Laundon handles site acquisitions, expansions, and rollout programmes. Stephanie Brigg advises on corporate real estate and joint ventures, while Antonia Frangakis is a key contact for landlord and tenant matters.

Well-versed in advising both domestic and foreign clients, K&L Gates LLP advises on real estate portfolio management, office relocations, and business expansion projects. Christian Major oversees the practice and assists hospitality and financial services sector clients with the acquisition, disposal, development, and letting of commercial and residential assets. Steven Cox concentrates on commercial property work, landlord and tenant matters, and real estate finance, while Chiara Del Frate covers real estate investment, often for luxury retail clients. Christopher Swallow is a key contact within the team.

Praised by clients for its ‘commercial and strategic thinking’, Maples Teesdale LLP advises a range of domestic and global clients. Neil Sagoo demonstrates strengths in headquarter relocations for occupiers and embassies, Katherine Watts concentrates on commercial property acquisitions and disposals, and Roger Thornton handles investment, development, and sales and purchases. Mark Harryman frequently advises law firms and media companies on various corporate real estate matters, while Adam Bernstein focuses on real estate growth and asset management in the hospitality and leisure sectors. Edward Bird is a key contact for acquisitions, disposals, and refinancing, whereas Helen Kearns is recommended for advising both landlords and occupiers alike.

The ‘approachable and reliable’ boutique real estate practice at RLS Law is proficient in aiding corporate occupiers in their office, industrial unit, and warehouse requirements, often within the retail and leisure sectors. The team lies under the guidance of Julien Rutler, who handles complex headquarters relocations and commercial property investment portfolios, and the ‘brilliant’ Craig Themis, who advises on real estate planning, acquisitions, and disposals. Tom Foley is well versed in property development, while the ‘supportive’ Liam McArdle assists tech and professional services sector clients with office relocations and pre-lets.

Engaged by financial institutions and high-net-worth individuals, Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP concentrates on providing real estate portfolio management services to corporate occupier clients. Also known for its strengths in high value leases and commercial redevelopments, the group is co-led by Rudi Ramdarshan, a ‘go to’ for offshore corporate investors seeking assistance with property developments, and the ‘razor sharp’ David Burns, who advises investment companies on mixed-use property portfolios. Lauded for his ‘fountain of knowledge’, Simon Lawrence acts for landlords and tenants on commercial lettings, while Jonathan Chan is frequently instructed by overseas investors on property mandates. Benjamin Frost and Victoria Huxley are proficient in property litigation concerning lease extensions.

At Shoosmiths LLP, the group has ample experience in real estate portfolio management and asset management, and acquisitions and disposals, primarily acting for corporate occupiers and institutional funds. Joseph Mazzucca heads the practice and advises on landlord and tenant matters, development, and real estate finance. Liam Phillips is proficient in real estate relating to data centres, while William Seymour handles transactional real estate work, such as mixed-use developments and investment sales and acquisitions.

Taylor Wessing LLP’s practice operates across the infrastructure, life sciences, tech, and energy sectors, and advises on headquarters relocations, real estate development, and occupational requirements. Paul Lawrence regularly advises international investors on various real estate transactions in London and across the UK. Other key members in the team are Louise Tobutt, who handles acquisitions, disposals, and lettings, and Rebecca Mars, who is a key contact for landlord and tenant matters.

The ‘superb’ team at Bates Wells illustrates expertise in the charity, higher education, and retail industries. Mark Traynor is well versed in commercial property work and concentrates on mandates relating to hydro-electric and solar panel systems. Karli Hiscock is a key contact for headquarters relocations and acquisitions, Jamie Huard specialises in real estate work concerning heritage property and social enterprises, and Malcolm Headley advises banks and corporate occupiers on real estate finance and ESG considerations. Rebecca Rider is recommended for her work on landlord and tenant matters, and Amy O’Gorman handles general real estate management work.

Working across the logistics, energy, and retail sectors, Bird & Bird LLP’s team is led by Jonathan Baker, who focuses on commercial property and the real estate elements of corporate and infrastructure projects. Peter Nicholson is recommended for his work on acquisitions, disposals, and landlord and tenant issues, particularly in the office, entertainment, and hotel industries. Lorna Young and Alexander Greenwood are proficient in real estate finance.

Collyer Bristow LLP’s corporate occupier practice handles work ranging from mixed-use and residential development matters, real estate portfolio management, build-to-rent schemes, and construction issues. Michael Grace anchors the offering and advises on the termination of leases, rent reviews, and dilapidation claims. Grace is ably supported by Alex O’Connor, Rory Macpherson, and Stephen Gawne. O’Connor specialises in the financing of complex mixed-use property developments and energy centre leases, Macpherson focuses on residential development work and the negotiation of facility agreements, and Gawne covers property acquisitions, disposals, and landlord and tenant matters.

At Druces LLP, Karen Chapman oversees the corporate occupiers department, drawing from her experience in advising on occupational lettings, property management, and landlord and tenant matters. Adrian Footer is well versed in commercial real estate in the hospitality and leisure sectors, Lisa Cardy focuses on the sale and acquisition of commercial properties, and Jo Wooller is a key contact for portfolio asset management, and the property elements of corporate transactions.

Keystone Law demonstrates strengths in the retail space, advising on landlord and tenant issues, and leases of flagship commercial property. Shayne Foley is well versed in representing occupiers in headquarters relocations, Lisa Raymond focuses on mixed-use developments in the leisure sector, and Robert Kilgour handles real estate investment, assisting clients with acquisitions, disposals, and property financing. Elsewhere, Dagmara Selwyn-Kuczera covers real estate portfolio management, Guy Hitchin advises banks and corporate occupiers on real estate projects in the office and hospitality industries, and Adam Cornbloom focuses on real estate finance.

The ‘first class’ corporate occupiers team at Kingsley Napley LLP liaises with its construction, tax, and property litigation departments to handle portfolio acquisitions, real estate finance, and development projects. Bethan Owen leads the team and handles high value residential transactions, while the ‘outstanding’ Paul Harbour acts for developers on complex commercial real estate matters. Vanessa Rhodes is well versed in lettings of commercial property, Daniel Clyne covers pre-lets in the retail and logistics sectors, and Daniel Browne assists SME developers and local authorities on commercial property deals.

At Macfarlanes LLP, the group advises on an array of real estate matters, ranging from planning and construction to asset management and dispute resolution. Illustrating strengths in mixed-use development deals in the logistics and life sciences sector, Clare Breeze leads the team and frequently advises investors and developers on commercial property and financing mandates. Other key names in the team include Dan Marriott, who handles the funding and development of real estate assets, Nick Barnes, who covers residential projects, and Andrew Hughes, a key contact for private equity real estate and the investment and disposal of assets.

Praised by clients for its ‘efficient and pragmatic’ approach, the corporate occupiers practice at Marriott Harrison LLP is led by the ‘very knowledgeable’ Mark Lavers. The group operates across the tech, professional services, and media sectors, and advises on lease negotiations and regears, property portfolio management, and headquarters relocations. Stephen Whittaker advises retailers and foreign corporations on real estate finance, while Andrew Timoney covers transactional real estate work, primarily assisting investors and lenders.

At McGuireWoods London LLP, the group works across the logistics, life sciences, and industrial sectors, and offers guidance on leases, acquisitions, and corporate office portfolios. The ‘proactive and knowledgeable’ Callum Hassall concentrates on the retirement living sector and cross-border acquisitions, while clients praise ‘superb’ Hannah Irish for her strengths in real estate finance and the property elements of corporate sales and acquisitions.

Instructed by international property companies, developers, and corporate occupiers, Payne Hicks Beach LLP’s core workflows include property investment and management, development projects, and town planning. Emma Copestake anchors the practice and advises investors and banks on real estate finance and redevelopments. Simon Blackburn is noted for his experience in sales of land for developments and rural rights of way, Marisa Beccarelli handles occupier leasehold matters, and Andrea Yiakoumetti advises private companies on acquisitions. Penny Miller focuses on landlord and tenant work, while the ‘exceptional’ Alex Blain covers commercial leases. Andrew Berry retired in August 2023.

Lauded by clients for its ‘extensive legal expertise’, Quastels LLP is proficient in portfolio management, development transactions, pre-lets, and joint venture work. Operating across the retail, leisure, and office sectors, the group is co-led by Mark Cornelius, who handles headquarters relocations and acquisitions and disposals, and Naomi Jones, who concentrates on commercial real estate and conditional sale and purchase agreements. Aisha Anjum is a go-to for real estate finance, and regularly assists property funds and institutional investors, while Stephanie Houston focuses on the construction aspects of property related joint ventures.

The ‘exceptional’ practice at RPC advises on headquarters establishments, lease structuring, portfolio management, and sales and leasebacks, and primarily advises institutional investors and corporations. ‘Top notch’ Elizabeth Alibhai handles corporate occupier transactions in the office and retail sectors. Jon Ely is recommended for his work in acquisitions and disposals and high value lettings, while Arash Rajai focuses on construction work, such as fit-outs and refurbishments. Ben Malone assists global companies with various property requirements, and Brooke Reed is well versed in real estate finance.

At Russell-Cooke LLP, the corporate occupiers team advises national brands, retailers, and industrial specialists on site acquisitions, lettings, planning issues, and development matters. Matthew Garrod heads the group and offers expertise on business expansions and the re-gearing of leases. Neil Dryer handles asset management matters, Robert Lusher acts on construction elements of property developments, Arnold Isaacson advises on high value developments, and Chris Barkley assists investors and developers on real estate finance mandates.

At RWK Goodman, the corporate occupiers team coordinates with its corporate, construction, and property litigation disciplines to advise on acquisitions and disposals, pre-lets and developments. Acting for investors, banks, and retailers, Dominic Whelan leads the practice and handles the management and disposal of commercial investment projects. Chris Langan focuses on commercial real estate and joint venture matters, Ross Sidwell covers land promotion schemes for commercial properties, Priya Pandya is skilled in real estate finance, and Susanna Caulfield acts for financial institutions on landlord and tenant matters.

The ‘efficient’ team at Sherrards Solicitors LLP works across the leisure, retail, and hospitality sectors and advises on acquisitions, development projects, and leases. Terry Fendt leads the group and handles investment and retail work, and is ably supported by Shane Knight, who handles construction, Guy Morgan, a go-to for clients in the health and social care sector, and Stephanie Kierans, who is well versed in commercial real estate.

Travers Smith LLP’s corporate occupiers practice counts headquarters lettings, leases, and office relocations within its primary scope of work, and frequently acts for retail and office sector clients. Emma Pereira leads the team and concentrates on advising real estate private equity funds on investments and developments. Alex Millar’s core workflows include regeneration and development projects, whereas Sarah Walker handles asset management matters.