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Bird & Bird Bolsters London Competition Practice With New Partner Hire

By  |  February 3, 2026

International law firm Bird & Bird has expanded its London-based competition law practice with the appointment of Emma Radcliffe as a partner, strengthening the firm’s ability to handle collective action litigation in the United Kingdom, according a statement released by the firm on Tuesday.

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    Radcliffe joins Bird & Bird as a specialist in competition collective actions, bringing experience in representing companies before the Competition Appeal Tribunal as well as in related appeals to the UK Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. Per a statement from Bird & Bird, she has played a role in defending clients in several recent high-profile cases, including matters in which courts declined to allow collective proceedings to move forward.

    Beyond litigation, Radcliffe has advised on competition and regulatory investigations that span multiple jurisdictions. According a statement, this background gives her insight into the strategic challenges that arise when businesses face large-scale competition claims, particularly those with cross-border implications.

    Her practice has covered a range of industries, including music, digital technology, communications, betting and gaming, and financial services. Per a statement from the firm, this sectoral reach reflects the growing number of collective competition cases being brought across the UK economy.

    Bird & Bird said the new hire is part of a broader plan to grow its London competition law offering as collective damages actions become a more prominent feature of enforcement. According to a statement, Radcliffe’s arrival is expected to deepen the firm’s capabilities in handling mass claims and complex litigation, while also reinforcing collaboration with its international dispute resolution lawyers.

    Firm leaders highlighted that the UK has seen a surge in competition collective actions, with dozens of claims now pending before the Competition Appeal Tribunal, many involving sums that can reach into the hundreds of millions or even billions of euros. Per a statement, the firm believes Radcliffe’s experience will help clients navigate these proceedings.

    Source: Two Birds