A&O moves support services to Belfast

Allen & Overy is set to move its operational support and legal services functions to a new centre in Belfast. The firm will begin consulting on proposals to transfer 180 roles from London by the autumn, and anticipates that the centre will grow to 300 members of staff by 2014. A&O managing partner Wim Dejonghe said: "Today's announcement follows a review of our support services in London. These proposals are about reshaping the firm for the future and asking ourselves: 'Are we operating in the most efficient and cost effective way possible?' "Unfortunately this involves taking some tough decisions and looking at both what our competitors are doing and what our clients expect us to do. That's why it is not a decision we've taken lightly and we understand that our proposals will come as a surprise and be upsetting for those staff whose roles are potentially affected. We will do everything we can to support those staff and are committed to treating them professionally and sensitively. "The reality is that the way global legal services are being delivered is changing. We have to meet that challenge and proactively offer increased efficiencies and alternative resourcing to our clients, but with the reassurance and quality they expect from A&O."

A&O moves support services to Belfast legalweek.com Thu, Feb 3, 2011