Technology law specialist Neil Pfister joins Mackrell LLP as new partner in London
Mackrell LLP has strengthened its corporate and commercial practice with the appointment of award-winning solicitor Neil Pfister as a partner.
The move is part of the firm’s ongoing strategy to expand its capabilities in technology, international business, and commercial advisory services.
Pfister, named UK Technology Lawyer of the Year in 2024, joins Mackrell LLP with more than a decade of experience advising a wide range of clients — from early-stage start-ups and small to medium-sized enterprises to publicly listed multinationals.
His practice covers commercial contracts, joint venture and shareholder agreements, licensing, distribution arrangements, and regulatory compliance. Though technology remains a central theme in his work, Pfister’s experience spans a number of industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and consumer services.
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Before returning to full-time legal practice, Pfister founded and managed his own software business, an experience that gives him what colleagues describe as a “practical, client-centred” understanding of commercial challenges. His background allows him to advise businesses on both the legal and operational aspects of growth, particularly those involving digital transformation and cross-border expansion.
Speaking on his appointment, Pfister said his aim is to “help clients see the law as a solution rather than an obstacle.” He added that he looked forward to building on the firm’s reputation for pragmatic advice and supporting companies operating in increasingly complex global markets.
Mackrell LLP, a founding member of the international network Mackrell International, has offices in London and Birmingham and serves clients with interests across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. The network provides access to legal expertise in more than 60 countries, enabling the firm to deliver coordinated support on cross-jurisdictional matters.
Pfister’s appointment comes amid heightened demand for commercial legal services linked to technology-driven sectors such as fintech, software development, and digital infrastructure. His recent work has included advising clients on expansion into overseas markets, notably the United States, the United Arab Emirates, and Singapore.
Maung Aye, Joint Managing Partner at Mackrell LLP, welcomed the appointment, saying the firm was “delighted to have Neil join the partnership.” He described Pfister’s combined legal and commercial experience as “a real asset to clients navigating the fast-evolving technology landscape.”
“Neil’s understanding of the sector, developed through his own business experience, allows him to identify opportunities and manage risks with clarity and confidence,” Aye said.
Pfister’s addition strengthens Mackrell LLP’s long-standing focus on providing practical, commercially aware advice to businesses operating in competitive and highly regulated environments. The firm’s corporate team advises on mergers and acquisitions, private equity transactions, restructuring, and commercial disputes.
With his appointment, Mackrell LLP signals its commitment to expanding its reach in the technology and innovation markets, positioning itself to advise both established enterprises and emerging ventures.
The firm’s leadership said the expansion of its partnership reflects continued investment in specialist expertise to meet growing client demand for integrated commercial and international advice.
Pfister will be based at Mackrell LLP’s London office.