Overview
Julian’s depth of international expertise in tech, telecoms, data and associated commercial contracts and advisory work makes him especially sought after. As well as his role as a partner in the TMT practice, he wears a number of different hats, including as co-head of our global Technology, Fintech and Telecoms Sector Groups. As digitisation brings with it the inevitable trend towards consolidation and convergence, he is perfectly placed to advise both traditional players and new entrants on the unique blend of issues arising from disruption.
He has a wide practice encompassing commercial and regulatory tech, fintech and telecoms work, as well as all aspects of data governance, outsourcing and complex service contracts. His particular focus is working in highly regulated industries such as financial services, professional services, telecoms, utilities and the public sector, where he can combine his regulatory and commercial expertise.
He is also a market leader in relation to fintech issues, helping to found our top tier fintech practice. He has advised on ground-breaking technological and other developments in financial markets for over 20 years, as well as on some of the world’s largest financial services outsourcings.
Julian is listed in the Legal 500 and Chambers for IT and telecoms, data protection and fintech.
Work highlights
Julian’s recent work highlights include advising:
- On the establishment of an IT system by IBM to enable a consortium of banks to operate a blockchain based trade finance platform;
- Softbank on its arrangements with IT providers for the establishment of its Vision Fund entity in the UK;
- MTN on the negotiation of agreements for the obtaining of capacity on subsea cables across Africa built and managed by a Facebook-led consortium
- A number of multinationals on their digitisation and globalisation agendas, including HSBC, PwC, and AT&T.
Professional experience
Julian is active in driving Linklaters’ strategy in relation to digitisation for clients, looking at key areas such as fintech, blockchain, artificial intelligence, internet of things and biometrics.
He is a thought leader in the technology and telecommunications industries, and he can be found on the speakers list for conferences worldwide.
Julian is listed in the Legal 500 and Chambers for IT and telecoms, data protection and fintech. Commentators say he is “a very bright, commercially savvy lawyer, a great negotiator and a real pleasure to work with.”
Education
College of Law, Guildford
St Catherine’s college, Oxford University (MA Hons Modern Languages - French and German)
