Gowling WLG welcomes intellectual property expert to its Dubai office

18 March 2016

International law firm Gowling WLG looks forward to welcoming intellectual property specialist Jon Parker to its award winning team.

Jon, who is currently Head of Trademarks at Clyde & Co, will establish and grow Gowling WLG's IP presence in the Middle East and Africa.

Gordon Harris, co-head of IP for Gowling WLG said: "This is an important step in our international development and cements our position as a world leading IP practice.

"As a firm we are committed to an international policy of expansion and this is a key piece in our jigsaw. We have large commercial bases in Canada, UK and Europe, an established practice in Russia and a growing office in China. This expansion into UAE means we will be stronger than ever to support our growing international client base."

Fellow co-head of IP for Gowling WLG, Robert MacDonald, said: "Having Jon on board is a tremendous addition to the IP team. With extensive experience in handling complex and demanding cross-border matters, Jon will contribute a high level of expertise in the development and delivery of an integrated international service, strengthening our IP capability in the UAE and beyond."

Jon brings more than 25 years' experience of working in the field of trademarks, which includes managing trademark portfolios throughout the UAE and wider MENA region, as well as globally for his clients. He also assisted clients with strategies for the creation, protection and management of intellectual property rights.

Jon has been noted as a 'leading individual' by WTR 1000, stating that his "...management of the portfolios of top-drawer clients draws praise from all quarters".

Tim Casben, Head of the Dubai office, said: "I look forward to welcoming Jon to the firm. Jon will be a first class addition to the team. His ability to manage large and complex portfolio management and enforcement work across the Middle East region will be valuable not only for our international clients coming into the region but those clients looking to expand their presence outside of the UAE. It's an exciting time for the Dubai office as we realise the firm's strategy to grow the office into areas of strategic strength for the wider firm, recently demonstrated by the hire of Real Estate experts Andrew Thomson and Melissa Younan."

Based in the Dubai International Financial Centre (and having been in the United Arab Emirates for eight years), Gowling WLG Dubai office advises on UAE, DIFC and English law throughout the GCC and Africa.

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Dawn Beddard Senior Corporate Communications Manager Birmingham