Record partner hiring signals shift in London’s private equity legal market
London’s private equity legal market recorded a surge in partner hiring in 2025, reaching its highest level since tracking began, according to new data from Macrae+.
The firm’s London Private Equity Report identified 50 partner moves during the year, a significant increase from 28 in 2024. The figures indicate a marked acceleration in recruitment activity across the sector, reflecting growing demand for experienced practitioners.
The report also highlights a shift in the competitive balance between UK and US law firms operating in London. For the first time during the tracking period, UK firms achieved higher net growth than their US counterparts, suggesting a change in momentum within the City’s private equity legal market.
The findings were referenced in coverage by City AM, which examined the broader factors influencing hiring trends. Economic uncertainty, geopolitical pressures, and the increasing role of artificial intelligence were identified as key drivers shaping recruitment strategies.
Firms are increasingly focusing on established partners who can bring both clients and teams with them. This approach reflects a preference for immediate revenue generation and market share expansion in a competitive environment.
Demand for specialist expertise has also intensified. The report notes particular interest in property and infrastructure practices, areas that continue to attract investment and transactional activity within private equity.
At the same time, the pool of experienced private equity partners in London remains limited. This imbalance between supply and demand is expected to sustain hiring activity into 2026, as firms compete to secure senior talent.
The data also indicates changes in how partners enter the market. External promotions and in-house transitions accounted for approximately one-third of partner moves in 2025, compared with 11% in the previous year. This suggests a diversification in recruitment pathways beyond traditional lateral hiring.
Gender diversity among partner moves has also improved. Women represented 30% of partner hires in 2025, a notable increase from 7% in 2024 and the highest proportion recorded in five years.
Specific firms were identified as leading the market in recruitment activity. Goodwin and White & Case each recorded four partner additions, reflecting continued investment in London’s private equity sector.
The report situates the legal hiring trend within a broader increase in private equity involvement across professional services. Law firms, accountancy firms, and advisory businesses are all experiencing heightened engagement with private equity-backed investors.
Overall, the findings point to a sustained period of expansion and competition within London’s private equity legal market, driven by structural and economic factors influencing both demand for legal services and recruitment strategies.