Shearman sends NYC partner to head Europe

Shearman & Sterling has named New York M&A partner Creighton Condon as its European managing partner.

Condon is one of Shearman's most senior lawyers. Shearman hopes his move will boost the firm's corporate practice across Europe.

Shearman UK managing partner Anthony Ward said: "The European managing partner role is more one of facilitating greater integration between European countries and greater facilitation between US offices and the Middle East."

Condon has strong links with corporate clients such as Royal Bank of Scotland, SmithKlineBeecham, Viacom and many of the firm's German clients.

The German practice has recently been hit with the departure of a number of partners including tax partner Thomas Fox, who is set to and partners Gottfried Breuninger and Astrid Krüger, who left for Allen & Overy.

"I think Creighton will be beneficial for the German practice and help integrate it with the rest of Europe," said Ward.

As a member of the global strategy group and policy committee, Condon was instrumental in revamping Shearman’s global strategy.

Condon said: “I know European colleagues well, and I’m very familiar with the opportunities available to us as we continue to work together on cross-border transactions. I’m particularly excited about the prospects for more transatlantic work for our global clients.”

Earlier this year (18 April) The Lawyer reported on the firm’s management restructure that saw it reduce the size of its international executive from six to three with New York bankruptcy partner Fred Sosnick taking up the role of management team coordinator.

As part of the revamp, business and client development was put at the forefront of the firm’s global strategy.

Shearman senior partner Rohan Weerasinghe said: “We’re very excited about Creighton’s new role in Europe. As we’ve seen in Asia, where Matthew Bersani manages the region – our three China offices as well as offices in Tokyo and Singapore and our presence in India – there is a great opportunity for increased synergies among our offices.”