Simpson Grierson brings back senior lawyer to co-lead IP group

The firm appoints a new special counsel and gives her more responsibility

Simpson Grierson brings back senior lawyer to co-lead IP group

Simpson Grierson has welcomed back Sarah Chapman and tasked her to co-lead its IP group.

Chapman, who made the move to Duncan Cotterill last year, has been appointed as special counsel. She will jointly lead the IP group with partner Richard Watts.

Chapman has more than 20 years’ experience in IP law, including four years in London working in-house for the BBC and Nestle UK and in private practice at a large global firm.

Anne Callinan, Simpson Grierson chair, said that Chapman will have a leadership role in the wider IP, sports, sales, and marketing team.

“Sarah’s reputation as a leading lawyer and trademark law expert will strengthen the high standing of our team. The more junior members of the team are sure to benefit from her strong mentorship skills,” she said.

Chapman’s extensive experience includes acting on strategies for protection, exploitation, transfer, and enforcement. She specialises in trademark law and is also known for her transactional work.

She is the past chair of the New Zealand committee of the Intellectual Property Society of Australia and New Zealand. She is also qualified as a solicitor in England and Wales.

Chapman’s appointment follows the promotion of Nick Wilson to partner, as well as the elevation of Anastasiya Gutorova, Matthew Piper, Calina Tataru, and Nicole Taylor to senior associate.

Sarah Chapman