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19 February 2026
Categories: Movers & Shakers , Profession
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Hugh James—Jonathan Askin

London corporate and commercial team announces partner appointment

Hugh James has appointed Jonathan Askin as a partner in its commercial practice, bolstering its corporate and commercial team and sector expertise in London. The move marks a further step in the continued growth of the firm’s London office and wider national offering.

Askin joins with more than 20 years’ experience as a commercial lawyer, including senior leadership roles at Top 50 UK law firms and time in-house with the UK Government as senior legal counsel (commercial). He has advised clients ranging from PLCs and multinationals to owner-managed businesses and start-ups, with expertise spanning complex supply chain and outsourcing contracts, data and AI governance, and large-scale public sector outsourcing and procurement matters.

Aled Walters, partner and head of the commercial practice, said: ‘Jonathan’s appointment is a significant boost for our London office and our commercial practice… He brings additional strength, depth and credentials to many of our current sector groups… and we’re thrilled to have him on board.’

Askin added: ‘Hugh James has a clear strategy for developing a high-quality, sector-focused commercial offering… I’m looking forward to contributing to that growth and working with teams across the firm.’

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Jurit LLP—Caroline Williams

Jurit LLP—Caroline Williams

Private wealth and tax team welcomes cross-border specialist as consultant

Freeths—Michelle Kirkland Elias

Freeths—Michelle Kirkland Elias

International hospitality and leisure specialist joins corporate team as partner

Flint Bishop—Deborah Niven

Flint Bishop—Deborah Niven

Firm appoints head of intellectual property to drive northern growth

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