Mergers, Partner Mobility, and Short-Term Disruption
A recent article published by Law.com explores how the current wave of large law firm mergers may be contributing to increased partner movement in the short term, despite their long-term strategic aims.
The piece examines how cultural integration, uncertainty around future strategy, and heightened competitive activity can prompt partners to reassess their position during merger periods. While most partner moves are not directly caused by combinations, recruiters note that firms undergoing structural change may be more exposed to departures, particularly in a highly active lateral market.
Andy Russell, a partner in Macrae’s London team, is quoted in the article, highlighting that even partners at the “stronger” firm in a merger may pause to evaluate whether the new platform best supports their practice and long-term goals. The article also points to the role of today’s buoyant hiring market, which continues to create optionality for partners across jurisdictions.
As merger activity accelerates on both sides of the Atlantic, the article underscores the importance of culture, clarity, and communication in managing partner expectations during periods of change.
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