Law firm Freshfields confirms Manchester move
INTERNATIONAL law firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, has confirmed its arrival in Manchester.
The firm is joining rivals Berwin Leighton Paisner and more recently US firm Latham & Watkins in choosing the city as a low-cost alternative to London.
In a statement the firm said it would be setting up a “shared legal and business services centre” in the city. It did not give details on job numbers but said the new facility would open this summer and autumn with further growth in 2016.
It is understood a deal has been agreed for the firm to take around 100,000 sq ft at the 23-storey Arndale House office block.
Freshfields said the centre will “provide support on the more process driven elements of the firm’s mandates and will supply internal business services.”
Managing partner David Aitman said: ‘Manchester offers a great depth of talent and the right combination of working environment, infrastructure and lifestyle and was the obvious choice. We welcome the close cooperation with Manchester City Council on this important development for the firm.’
Sir Howard Bernstein, chief executive of the City Council, said: ‘The legal and professional services industry is an increasingly important part of Manchester’s thriving business sector and the addition of a prestigious international name such as Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer will undoubtedly enhance this offer.
“I look forward to extending them a warm welcome to our city, as a significant employer and part of our strong business community.’
