A&O Shearman closes Johannesburg office, cuts partnerships by 10%
As reported by Global Legal Post and American Lawyer, A&O Shearman plans to shut down its Johannesburg office and its consulting division (“Consulting by A&O”) by the end of the year.The firm will also be axing 10% of its partnerships by the end of the financial year.
Johannesburg office
Johannesburg office was founded in 2014 by Allen & Overy which, with its establishment, became the first Magic Circle practice to open its own office in sub-Saharan Africa. The office, according to A&O Shearman’s website, comprises 32 lawyers and 8 partners. A&O Shearman expressed its commitment to continuing support for clients in the region and plans to handle Africa-related work through offices in London, Paris, the Middle East, and Casablanca. The firm is also exploring new ways to collaborate with lawyers based in South Africa
Cut down of 10% of the partnerships
With A&O Shearman having around 800 global partners, the reduction of 10% will likely affect around 80 partners.
Hervé Ekué – managing partner at A&O Shearman
Managing partner Hervé Ekué emphasized that these strategic adjustments, along with other ongoing initiatives, are aimed at unlocking growth potential from the merger and ensuring long-term success. He also expressed his gratitude to the partners who will be leaving the firm, as well as to the Johannesburg office and the Consulting by A&O Shearman division for their contributions