Leading Partner Joins Dechert’s Corporate & Life Sciences Team in London

LONDON, September 10, 2018 — Dechert LLP has significantly strengthened its life sciences, corporate and private equity practices with the hire of Robert Darwin as partner in the firm’s London office. 

Mr. Darwin’s hire is the third strategic lateral hire in London in as many months. In July, premier commercial litigator Dorothy Cory-Wright joined Dechert as Head of its Commercial Disputes practice in London. In June, former senior U.S. federal prosecutor Roger Burlingame joined the firm’s global investigations and white collar crime practice. 

Mr. Darwin has a broad international practice focused on M&A and private equity deals for corporates, funds and other private investors. He executes complex and strategic transactions for clients across a wide range of sectors and has deep expertise with work relating to life sciences and healthcare. The Legal 500 has noted he is “hardworking, conscientious and commercial.”

“Robert is a dynamic lawyer whose entrepreneurial spirit will ensure he will fit in superbly with our global corporate team,” said Mark Thierfelder, chair of Dechert’s corporate practice. “His expansive private equity, M&A and life sciences experience strengthens our growing global platform, directly benefiting our clients in the UK and around the world.”

Mélanie Thill-Tayara, Paris-based co-leader of Dechert’s global life sciences group, added, “Leading life science companies rely on Dechert to successfully navigate their most complex corporate issues. Robert’s experience as strategic adviser in this competitive industry is a wonderful addition to our team.”

Mr. Darwin added, “Dechert is known for bringing the energy and expertise required to help clients with their most sophisticated matters. I am delighted to have the opportunity to join my practice with Dechert’s top-flight corporate team in London.”

Dechert’s corporate team has expanded significantly over the last two years with hires across the globe, including in New York, London, Beijing, Hong Kong and Singapore. In London, strategic additions include Ross Allardice, Philip Butler, Christopher Field, John Markland and David Miles. The corporate practice, including the private equity practice, earns top rankings in the most prominent league tables and our practices have been recognized by leading legal directories, including Chambers and The Legal 500.

Mr. Darwin received his B.A. from Birmingham University, and his LPC and Pg.D.L. from BPP Law School in London. 

About Dechert 

Dechert is a leading global law firm with 27 offices around the world. We advise on matters and transactions of the greatest complexity, bringing energy, creativity and efficient management of legal issues to deliver commercial and practical advice for clients.