Freshfields, one of the world’s leading international law firms, has announced the strategic addition of two seasoned partners—Jessamy Gallagher and Stuart Rowson—to its London office. These key hires mark a significant milestone in the firm’s global expansion of its Energy and Infrastructure (E&I) and Private Capital practices.

Strategic Growth in Energy and Infrastructure

The energy and infrastructure sector continues to evolve rapidly, driven by global demand, regulatory changes, and the transition to cleaner energy sources. Freshfields has recognised these shifts and continues to bolster its ability to advise clients on complex, cross-border deals in these high-growth areas.

With this move, Freshfields aims to deepen its bench of legal advisers serving private capital investors, fund managers, pension funds, and corporate clients active in the energy, real assets, and infrastructure space. The firm’s latest hires are seen as a strategic response to growing client needs for sophisticated, sector-specific legal support.

Jessamy Gallagher: Appointed Global Co-Head of Energy & Real Assets

Jessamy Gallagher, formerly of Paul Hastings, joins Freshfields with an impressive track record advising on international public and private M&A transactions. She will take on a leadership role as Global Co-Head of the Energy & Real Assets Group, alongside Freshfields partner Richard Thexton.

Gallagher’s client base includes a diverse range of global investors and corporations, including FTSE-listed companies, infrastructure funds, and global pension schemes. Her practice reflects a deep understanding of the international regulatory and transactional environment, making her a valuable asset as Freshfields expands its global capabilities.

Stuart Rowson: Lending Expertise in Infrastructure Finance

Stuart Rowson brings over 25 years of experience to the Freshfields team. Having transitioned over a decade ago to focus exclusively on energy and infrastructure finance, Rowson has since advised private equity sponsors, infrastructure lenders, and institutional investors on major financing and refinancing transactions.

Rowson is particularly well-regarded for his ability to navigate complex financing structures, including those supporting large-scale energy projects and transition assets. His addition significantly strengthens Freshfields’ finance capabilities within the E&I sector and reinforces its integrated offering to private capital clients.

Leadership Statements: Strategic Alignment and Market Confidence

Georgia Dawson, Freshfields’ Senior Partner, commented on the appointments:

“Jessamy and Stuart’s arrival accelerates our continued global growth in Europe, the US, and beyond. Energy and infrastructure continue to present unique and transformative opportunities for both our private capital and corporate clients. This move sees us actively supporting those needs.”

Dawson also highlighted the firm’s impressive standing in the market, citing:

Top-tier M&A performance across cross-border, European, US, Asia, and MENA markets.

Recognition by Chambers Global with 105 Band 1 rankings, underscoring its sectoral and geographic strength.

Strengthening Private Capital Support

As the private capital sector continues to diversify across investment strategies, legal advisers are expected to deliver multi-jurisdictional, multi-asset, and multi-disciplinary solutions.

Charles Hayes, Global Co-Head of Private Capital at Freshfields, emphasised the firm’s focus:

“Our vision is clear: to build on our leading European buyout heritage and expanding US presence. We are evolving to operate seamlessly across global markets and deliver a world-class experience to private markets asset managers.”

Synergies and Sector Outlook

The new appointments bring together complementary client relationships and sector experience that will support Freshfields’ growing E&I platform.

Richard Thexton, Gallagher’s co-lead in the Energy & Real Assets group, noted:

“Jessamy and Stuart join us at a pivotal moment. We anticipate increased investment in energy and infrastructure despite ongoing political and regulatory changes. The synergies between our teams will significantly enhance our client offering.”

Thexton referenced evolving governmental policies and regulatory shifts across jurisdictions as drivers of opportunity and complexity in the infrastructure investment landscape—areas where Freshfields’ multidisciplinary capabilities can add tremendous value.

Conclusion: A Strategic Move with Global Impact

The addition of Jessamy Gallagher and Stuart Rowson is more than a lateral hire—it is a calculated investment in the future of Freshfields’ global advisory capabilities. As the firm aligns with the accelerating demand for expertise in energy transition, infrastructure development, and private capital deployment, these appointments position Freshfields at the forefront of legal counsel in one of the most dynamic sectors in the global economy.

Through these strategic hires, Freshfields not only strengthens its UK presence but also reinforces its ability to advise across borders, offering clients a seamless, expert-led service in navigating the complexities of global energy and infrastructure transactions.