Addleshaw Goddard Expands IP Practice with New Head of Brands
Advisor - People | Jan 09, 2025 | Addleshaw Goddard
In a strategic move to enhance its Intellectual Property (IP) practice, Addleshaw Goddard has appointed Joel McDonald as the Head of Brands. This appointment forms part of a broader hiring spree that has strengthened the firm's IP division by nearly a third since late 2024. McDonald joins from Stobbs, where he held a pivotal role as the IA Director and Head of Sports. At Stobbs, he crafted a significant portfolio advising global brands like UEFA, Nike, and Liverpool FC, specialising in trademark and design law. Following McDonald’s move, Addleshaw Goddard's London headquarters have also welcomed five other IP specialists from Stobbs, including reputably known litigator Geoff Steward. This recent influx now bolsters AG's global IP team, which has earned a reputation for its expertise in advising luxury brands and leading retailers. The appointments underpin AG's commitment to providing comprehensive brand management services to clients on a global scale.
Sectors
- Legal Services
- Intellectual Property
- Retail & Consumer Goods
Geography
- United Kingdom – Addleshaw Goddard is based in London and has a significant presence in the UK legal market.
Industry
- Legal Services – The article focuses on the hiring within a law firm, particularly in its Intellectual Property legal services division.
- Intellectual Property – The enhancements to the IP team and the appointment of a new Head of Brands revolve around IP law and brand management.
- Retail & Consumer Goods – AG's IP team services notable retail clients, strengthening its position in the Retail & Consumer Goods industry.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Addleshaw Goddard | Hiring Company | Company | A prominent international law firm expanding its IP practice. |
| Joel McDonald | Head of Brands | Person | Newly appointed Head of Brands at Addleshaw Goddard, previously with Stobbs. |
| Stobbs | Previous Employer | Company | Joel McDonald's former employer where he served as IA Director and Head of Sports. |
| Geoff Steward | Co-head of IP | Person | Joined Addleshaw Goddard as Co-head of IP alongside Joel McDonald. |