Allen & Overy and Shearman & Sterling announce first partner promotions for merged firm

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Allen & Overy LLP and Shearman & Sterling LLP have announced the first 40 partner promotions for A&O Shearman, with women making up 42% of promotions across both firms. The magic circle outfit elected 32 partners, while Shearman & Sterling elected eight to join the A&O Shearman partnership when the merger closes on Wednesday 1 May 2024.

The proportion of promotions selected is in line with the size of each firm and their geographic footprints, according to a joint statement released earlier this month.

Of the promotions, 13 were made in the United States, nine in the United Kingdom, 13 across mainland Europe, one in the Middle East and four in Asia.

Khalid Garousha, interim managing partner at A&O said: "We are thrilled to welcome this exceptional group of lawyers to the A&O Shearman partnership. I am also pleased that 42% of those promoted across both firms are women, in line with our goal of increasing diversity. These partners will bring a wealth of expertise to our soon-to-be merged firm, providing exceptional service to our clients in the world’s most dynamic markets.”

While Adam Hakki, senior partner at Shearman & Sterling, added: “The diversity, geographical breadth and range of expertise of these outstanding professionals demonstrates the quality and depth of the combined firm around the world. I am confident they will continue to accomplish great things and will be wonderful partners in every respect.”

This comes after news that Allen & Overy’s London HQ will take on Shearman & Sterling’s UK team, while the magic circle firm’s New York lawyers will move to Shearman & Sterling’s New York HQ on Lexington Avenue.