Shoosmiths bolsters AI and tech offering with new lateral partner appointment

Shoosmiths continues to strengthen its AI and technology capabilities with the appointment of Sarah Reynolds as Partner. Sarah joins from EY Law, where she led the UK Emerging Technology and Responsible AI practice in the UK.

Based in Shoosmiths’ London office, Sarah will focus on sustainable and emerging technologies — and the intersection between the two — including AI, robotic process automation (RPA), blockchain and digital assets and Web3 and Metaverse. With over 20 years’ experience, she has advised an extensive range of corporate clients on the sourcing, deployment, and commercialisation of technologies as part of their digital transformation strategies.

Sarah also plays an active role in shaping the UK’s AI regulatory landscape. She has advised the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) on proposed amendments to intellectual property laws relating to text and data mining for AI training, and serves as an Advisory Board Member for the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Artificial Intelligence. Her work supports a pro-innovation approach to regulation, promoting the responsible use of AI to drive positive change across business, society, and policy.

Sarah joins Shoosmiths’ market-leading AI practice, which is at the forefront of advising clients on the legal, ethical, and commercial implications of AI adoption. She will play a key role in the continued development of AI Comply, Shoosmiths’ flagship AI governance and compliance platform, designed to help organisations navigate the complex regulatory environment and implement responsible AI frameworks tailored to their business needs.

Joe Stephenson, Head of IT & Technology at Shoosmiths, commented:

“Sarah’s arrival marks a pivotal moment in Shoosmiths’ journey to becoming one of the UK’s leading AI legal advisors. Her deep expertise in emerging technologies and her influence on national AI policy will supercharge our ability to help clients innovate with confidence. As businesses race to harness the power of AI, Sarah’s leadership will ensure we remain at the cutting edge — delivering practical, ethical, and future-ready solutions that shape the industries of tomorrow.”

Robin Webb, Head of Commercial at Shoosmiths, added:

“I’m absolutely delighted to welcome Sarah to Shoosmiths. Sarah brings with her a wealth of experience particularly in complex commercial advisory and transformation projects, which will be invaluable to our clients as they navigate increasingly dynamic issues and markets. Her arrival marks another exciting step forwards in the growth of our Commercia Group and further demonstrates our commitment to be market leaders across our practice areas and our key sectors. I’m confident that the combination of her deep matter expertise and collaborative approach will make a significant impact across the firm.”

 Commenting on her appointment, Sarah said:

“We’re entering a transformative era where AI and emerging technologies are redefining how businesses operate, compete, and grow. Shoosmiths is uniquely positioned to help lead this change — combining deep legal insight with a bold, forward-thinking approach. I’m thrilled to join a team that shares my passion for responsible innovation and to help our clients unlock the full potential of technology in ways that are sustainable, ethical, and truly game-changing.”