Contributors

International law firm Womble Bond Dickinson (WBD) has appointed partner Nicola Giddens as the new head of its London office.

Nicola has taken over the role as office head from Jonathan Blair and will be overseeing the office as it continues to grow as an office at the heart of the firm's overall strategic objectives.

Joining WBD in 2019 from DWF, Nicola is a partner in the firm's real estate team with a speciality in real estate finance and has advised clients across the UK on transactions involving retail, student accommodation, hospitality, housebuilding, and healthcare.

With more than 20 years' experience working alongside major financial organisations including NatWest Group, HSBC UK, Barclays, Lloyds Bank, AgFe and Wells Fargo.

Together with Charlie Reid, Nicola participated in a long-term project with the University of Cambridge Centre for Housing and Planning Research (CCHPR), and in collaboration with CCHPR produced a report and roundtable event on the findings of a desk-based, evidence-rich review on how ESG principles are impacting the operations of companies within the UK built environment sector.

Focusing on the real estate, notably housebuilding, banking, and investment sectors, the study drew on academic, grey, and market literature to deepen understanding of ESG, particularly when it comes to investment decisions that are critical to operations.

Nicola said: 

"It is an incredible honour to be named the next head of the London office at WBD, particularly as the office itself gears up for an ambitious growth plan as a core part of the firm's strategic objectives.

"I am excited for the opportunities ahead for the office, not just as we continue to work with our valued clients and stakeholders to drive success and collaboration, but also as we build further ties with our colleagues in the US to make the London office a crucial piece of the WBD international machine.

"Our upcoming move into newly refurbished offices in the new year will mark a fresh chapter for the London team and give us an environment that will support long-term future development while enhancing our ability to serve our clients.

"Jonathan has been a dedicated leader during his time as office head,, but I look forward to being able to build on the strong foundation he has established and develop our London practice further in the future."

Nicola is the second new office head taking charge this year at WBD, with partner Jon Bower taking over the position as head of the firm's Bristol office earlier in the year, replacing retiring partner Fiona O'Kane.