Global law firm Eversheds Sutherland has appointed Nichola Donovan as a partner in its London Commercial Advisory practice, bringing more than 15 years of experience advising global clients on complex technology and digital transformation programmes, including major outsourcing arrangements. The appointment, reported by Eversheds Sutherland, is designed to strengthen the firm's capability at the intersection of technology, regulation and transformation as demand from clients navigating AI adoption and evolving financial services compliance requirements intensifies.

Donovan joins from DLA Piper, where she built a practice spanning cloud-based infrastructure, AI-enabled solutions and financial services regulatory frameworks including the Digital Operational Resilience Act and Prudential Regulation Authority requirements. She is ranked in Legal 500 as a Key Lawyer, with particular recognition for insurance-focused outsourcing and technology arrangements.

Simon Gamlin, Commercial Advisory Practice Group Head at Eversheds Sutherland, said: "The intersection of technology, sourcing and regulation is becoming increasingly complex, and it is critical that we continue to build capability in this space."

Simon Lightman, Partner and Head of Technology at Eversheds Sutherland, said: "With the pace of change around AI and increasing regulatory pressure, her experience will be hugely valuable."

Donovan said: "Eversheds Sutherland stood out as a firm with a strong sense of direction. Its client base and sector strengths align closely with my practice, creating exciting complementary opportunities from day one."

The hire follows a series of recent strategic appointments at the firm, including partners Laura Fannin, Grant Edwards and Chrissy Findlay, reflecting a sustained period of capability investment across its global platform.

Find out more about Eversheds Sutherland's Commercial Advisory practice and technology offering in the full report.