Addleshaw Goddard Elects Andrew Johnston as Managing Partner

In a strategic move to bolster its global presence and drive aggressive growth, Addleshaw Goddard (AG) has elected Andrew Johnston as its Managing Partner. The uncontested election marks a historic moment as Johnston, based in the Middle East, becomes the first Partner based outside of the UK to hold this position. His tenure, starting on May 1, 2024, follows the departure of John Joyce, who played a pivotal role in the firm’s international success. 

Andrew Johnston, known for leading AG’s M&A practice in the Middle East since 2013, has achieved record financial performances, making it the firm’s fastest-growing region. Under his leadership, the Middle East recorded a remarkable 43% income growth in the financial year ending April 2023. Plans for a new office in Riyadh and a targeted 60% revenue growth in the Middle East over the next five years showcase AG’s commitment to the region. 

Commenting on his election, Andrew Johnston said: “My ambition is for AG to double in size by 2030. I am looking forward to the firm capitalising on the strong platform created under John’s leadership and using it as a springboard for greater success. We will continue to invest where clients need us the most and I will be giving as much focus as I can to ensuring that we flourish as a thriving global business, dominant across the UK, with greater influence in the City, and even more famous for high-quality imaginative, impactful advice that delivers real competitive advantage.” 

John Joyce’s decade-long leadership was characterized by successful mergers and an expanding international footprint, with offices opening in Germany, France, and Luxembourg. Today, non-UK revenue represents half of the firm’s entire turnover in 2013. The firm’s financial health has flourished, with partner numbers rising from 178 to 386, income soaring from £166m in Fy2013/14 to £443m, and profits increasing by over 200%. The firm’s balance sheet boasts a record-breaking closing cash position of £146m at the end of Fy2022/23, compared to a deficit of £16m in Fy2014-15. 

Aster Crawshaw, Addleshaw Goddard Senior Partner, expressed gratitude to John Joyce and conveyed excitement about Andrew Johnston’s leadership, anticipating significant strides in the firm’s strategy, performance, culture, and client relationships. Johnston’s energy and track record position him as a catalyst for Addleshaw Goddard’s continued success.