In a substantial post-merger reorganization, the newly-formed law firm A&O Shearman has announced significant changes to its operations. Key measures include a 10% reduction in its global equity partnership, the closure of its Johannesburg office, and the termination of its consulting division. These measures are set to be phased in gradually, with the reduction in the equity partnership, which currently includes approximately 800 partners, to be completed by April 2025. Despite these cutbacks, the firm remains open to making lateral hires during this period.
The firm’s decision to close the Johannesburg office marks a significant shift just as it was on the verge of celebrating a decade of operations in South Africa. The full details and implications of these changes were communicated internally on Friday.
Further details on the restructuring can be accessed here.