Strategic clients and people achievements key to reappointment of Ashurst Global CEO
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Karen Davies, Chair of global law firm Ashurst, today confirmed the reappointment of Paul Jenkins as the firm’s Global CEO. Paul, who has led Ashurst since 2016, will commence a further four-year term on 1 November 2022 ending 31 October 2026.
“On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to announce Paul’s reappointment as our global CEO for a third term,” Karen said. “Paul has done an excellent job of leading Ashurst, particularly over the past two years through the pandemic and against a backdrop of growing challenges for our clients and disruption within the legal industry itself. I am confident that he will continue to steer the business from strength to strength, as we head into the next phase of our growth."
Karen said the Ashurst Board and partnership are proud of the achievements of the firm over the past five years (as set out below) pointing to the firm's strong growth trajectory and momentum in all of the markets in which it operates.
"Under Paul's leadership, Ashurst has experienced 40% in revenue growth over the past five years, with an average annual growth rate of more than 7%. This significant growth has been achieved through setting a clear vision and direction for the firm and disciplined strategic planning. It has included sharpening the firm's sector focus, strengthening our capabilities in key markets and focussing on our clients and people. Inclusion, diversity and belonging has been a particular priority, as has advancing our responsible business and sustainability agenda."
Speaking about his reappointment, Paul said, “I am delighted to be reappointed as Global CEO. 2022 marks the 200th anniversary of Ashurst, and I am particularly honoured that my reappointment coincides with this prestigious time for our firm.
"I have great ambitions for the firm, am excited about the opportunities ahead and confident that Ashurst will continue its growth trajectory. We have a strong global platform, a collaborative and progressive culture with a clear focus on clients and our people."
Paul said there will be a number of challenges to address as he heads into his new term.
"Ashurst, like any other business, will be managing the lasting effects of the pandemic during 2022 and beyond. Continuing to adjust to the societal and economic impact of the pandemic will be key, including prioritising the ongoing health and well-being of our people, and encouraging new ways of working.
"We are focused on unlocking growth for our clients, and see opportunities across our five priority sectors arising from the significant investment by our clients in sustainability, energy transition, digital transformation and new digital assets. The opportunities for growth point to a future that is very different to the past."
Significant investments in Ashurst Advance and Ashurst Consulting have been made under Paul's tenure as global CEO. The Ashurst Advance NewLaw business has grown consistently, almost doubling in size each year, and makes a very strong contribution to the firm's business.
Ashurst Consulting was launched in 2020 and trading is exceeding all expectations, with 60 consultants and over £10 million in revenue this financial year. Further significant growth is expected over the next 12 months.
Ashurst remains on track for continued financial growth in FY22 building on its strong FY21 results. Announced in July 2021, the results marked the fifth consecutive year of revenue growth for the firm under Paul's leadership.
Achievements over the past 5 years include:
Markets and Clients
People & Culture
Responsible business