Law firm Payne Hicks Beach is continuing its growth strategy with the appointment of James Townsend as a Partner and Co-Head of the Employment Department.

Recognised as an expert on all aspects of employment law in both the private and public sectors, James specialises in statutory and contractual disputes involving employees, directors, agents, consultants, workers and partners, as well as collective consultation issues, executive terminations, High Court injunctions (especially team moves) and the domestic employment aspects of national and international business mergers and acquisitions.

James regularly represents clients before the Employment Tribunal and in the Employment Appeals Tribunal himself, as well as in the High Court on interlocutory matters. He is a member of the Employment Lawyers Association as well as the Immigration Law Practitioners’ Association.

James’ appointment is the latest in the London firm’s growth plans. In the last few months, Payne Hicks Beach has recruited art and cultural property law Partner Till Vere-Hodge to its Private Client Team, brought in Partner Mark Jones to the Dispute Resolution department to lead the firm’s new crime team, as well as made a number of internal promotions.

James said of his joining Payne Hicks Beach: “This firm’s commitment to its clients is clearly at the heart of everything it does, which fits with my own work ethic. I am looking forward to joining a well-established team at Payne Hicks Beach at this exciting time for the practice.”

Robert Brodrick, Chairman of Payne Hicks Beach, said: “James will add considerable weight to our already strong employment team and the wider firm. Payne Hicks Beach’s clients will benefit hugely from his broad experience. We are delighted that he is joining us at this time of growth as we look to ensure we can offer our clients a range of legal services delivered to the highest standards.”