Oxford: Henmans Freeth adds corporate heavyweight partner to its ranks

Henmans Freeth has welcomed Leon Arnold to the firm to continue the growth of its corporate practice. Arnold joins as head of corporate and brings with him over 15 years’ experience in corporate finance, most recently with Thomas Eggar.

Having acted on corporate deals ranging from £500,000 to £100 million, Arnold's particular specialist areas include acquisitions and disposals; private equity and MBOs; corporate finance; and director and shareholder advisory.

Comments in legal profession directories include his being recommended for being “commercial and sophisticated” and an “enthusiastic lawyer who doesn’t blind clients with legal science”. He is ranked as a leading individual for corporate finance advice in The Legal 500.

Malcolm Sadler, senior partner and head of the firm’s commercial practice, said: “At a time of change in the legal services market, we are looking to expand our corporate services activity. We already have a busy corporate team here and I am sure Leon, as new head of the team, will be bringing his energy and experience and leading this part of our practice to a new level.

"As soon as I met Leon, we recognised that we share a similar approach to our clients – building long-term relationships through excellent service. Both Leon and I have substantial networks of clients and contacts and we are looking forward to making some mutual introductions.”

Commenting on his appointment, Arnold said: “I’m looking forward to adding my experience and focus to an already-talented team. Henmans Freeth has a fantastic reputation and already works with a number of exciting corporate clients. I will be working with the firm as well as my own contacts to grow the client base and continue to provide the high-level legal advice Henmans Freeth’s clients expect. While my main focus will continue to be private company M&A, I know the team at Henmans Freeth can look after all of a client’s corporate law requirements.”

Sarah Foster, managing partner, said: "Leon brings a wealth of valuable experience to the team and will help grow and service the increasing number of corporate clients instructing us to advise on high-value corporate transactions. His appointment also reflects our commitment to making Henmans Freeth the law firm of choice for clients in Oxfordshire and throughout the Thames Valley.”