Manches ramps up as Oxford IT head quits

Manches Oxford IT head Christine Reid has left the firm to set up her own consultancy practice from home, prompting Manches to raid Burges Salmon for a new IT partner.

Jonathan Oddy joined Manches' Oxford office last week, with a practice specialising in IT and IP matters.

Oxford-based technology and IP partner Chris Shelley has inherited the remainder of Reid's practice.

The Lawyer understands that Reid left for personal reasons stemming from a desire to work from home.

Manches' Oxford office focuses on IT, advising technology suppliers and Government bodies on commercial agreements. Main clients in Oxford include the Council for the Central Laboratory of the Research Councils. Around one-third of Manches' 120 lawyers are based in Oxford.

Manches declined to comment.