Shoosmiths is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Collins as a Partner in the firm's Pensions team in Birmingham, further building out the firm's offering in the Midlands and nationally, which already advises a significant number of occupational pension schemes.
Published: 27 July 2026
Michael joins from Gateley Legal, where he has served as Partner and Head of Pensions for nearly two decades, bringing with him nearly three decades of experience advising employers and trustees of occupational pension schemes on all aspects of pensions law.
Michael's practice covers the full spectrum of pensions advisory work, with expertise spanning risk transfer, defined benefit and defined contribution schemes, and corporate transactions involving pension issues. His core client base includes schemes across the manufacturing, automotive and engineering sectors in the Midlands, as well as larger national schemes in retail, publishing, medical research, infrastructure and trade union sectors.
Ranked in Band 2 by Chambers UK and recognised in the Legal 500 as a highly knowledgeable pension lawyer, Michael is a well-regarded figure in the pensions community and brings with him an established reputation and strong network of intermediary and trustee relationships. He is a member of the Association of Pension Lawyers and a former Chair of the West Midlands Group of the Pension and Lifetime Savings Association, reflecting his standing and engagement across the wider pensions industry.
Lynette Lewis, Co-head of the Pensions team, comments: "We are thrilled to welcome Michael to our growing Pensions team. He is one of the most respected pensions lawyers in the Midlands and particularly well known for his work with trustees and employers considering buy-out, consolidation or other end-game solutions. His appointment enhances our ability to serve clients in the Midlands – a significant hub for occupational pension schemes – as well as nationally, supporting the continued growth of our Pensions practice in line with our 2030 strategy. He joins us at a pivotal time for the pensions industry where improved funding positions, increased insurer capacity and continued regulatory change are prompting heightened activity”
Commenting on his appointment, Michael said: "Shoosmiths has real ambition for its Pensions practice, and I am excited to be joining at such an important moment in the team's development. The firm's commitment to technical excellence, outstanding client service and its collaborative culture made it a compelling choice. I look forward to working closely with the team to strengthen existing client relationships and expand our presence across the Midlands and nationally."
Michael's appointment adds to Shoosmiths' significant growth momentum, with the firm adding 24 lateral partners since April 2025 as it continues to deliver on its dynamic 2030 strategy and build depth and expertise across its core practice areas.