Keystone announces the arrival of seven new recruits from the likes of Cains, Russell Cooke and Keates Ferris.

This latest string of hires has broadened Keystone’s offering in both the UK and beyond. Following the announcement of Keystone’s launch in the Isle of Man, Manx Advocate Gillian Christian, and solicitor Ben Hughes, are welcomed to the firm from Cains.

Gillian advises domestic and international clients on corporate and commercial litigation, and employment matters and is presently Secretary of the Isle of Man Law Society. Ben is a pensions and incentives specialist with more than 15 years’ experience. He is also the Isle of Man’s only member of the Association of Pensions Lawyers.

Keystone’s Real Estate team is boosted by the arrival of two new joiners Stuart Darlington and Susan Anand. Previously a Partner at Michael Simkins and Davenport Lyons, Stuart is a commercial property expert and is well placed to advise on large corporate deals as well as investment management, funding and acquisitions and disposals. With impressive experience in the retail and leisure sectors, Stuart lists Prezzo Plc, Pizza Express, Cafe Rouge and L’Occitane as past clients. Meanwhile Susan, who joins from Russell Cooke, undertakes both commercial and residential property work and, as a Notary Public, can also advise on all aspects of notarial work.

Joining Keystone’s Marine & Shipping team is ex-Keates Ferris Partner, Jonathan Hadley-Piggin. With 20 years’ experience advising both banks and private clients, Jonathan’s international superyacht specialism brings a new dynamic to the burgeoning team.

Also gaining a new hire, in the form of Steven Conway, is Keystone’s formidable Dispute Resolution team which now boasts a total of 45 partner-level solicitors. Steven, who joins from Browne Jacobson, is an insurance litigator with particular expertise in defending local authorities, public authorities and insurers.

Finally, Keystone is pleased to welcome Angela Message to the firm as a Licensing Coordinator in the Licensing team. Angela’s role consists of managing the applications for a range of licences. She has worked with a number of leading organisations including Spearmint Rhino, Weatherspoon’s, Mitchells & Butlers and many UK music and dance festivals.

James Knight commented:

“The firm has seen a fantastic start to the new year. For us, it’s all about ensuring that we can meet the needs of our clients and each of these new hires marks a significant step towards the strengthening of our market position. The arrival of another seven highly-experienced lawyers is further proof that the Keystone model is fast-becoming the preferred way of working.”