Member Spotlight: Luke Stubbs, Partner & Head of FinTech – Shoosmiths LLP

1. Introduce yourself

I’m Luke, Partner and head of the FinTech sector at Shoosmiths. I’ve been a lawyer for over 20 years, and a Partner at Shoosmiths since 2020. I am a commercial contracts lawyer and advise on a wide range of commercial, IT, IP and technology related matters and projects. I have a particular specialism in FinTech and Payments / Embedded Finance arrangements. I lead Shoosmiths’ multi – disciplinary FinTech team and am a member of the Pro Manchester FinTech committee.

2. Career highlight

Taking Shoosmiths’ IT law team in Manchester, and FinTech team nationally, from a standing start to recognition in the major legal industry league tables – Including a personal ranking as a “Leading Individual” for IT law in Manchester. In June 2024, we were the only law firm to be nominated at the London FinTech Awards in the category of advisory firm of the year  – and although we didn’t win overall, we received a special commendation from the judges.

3. Name three words that describe your personality

Tenacious, determined, loyal

4. What’s the best thing about pro-manchester

It provides an important forum for the business community to meet, exchange ideas, and keep up to date. The team also work really hard to ensure a programme of relevant and insightful events. If we are going to continue to challenge on the national and international business stage we need groups like this to pull us together.

5. What are your priorities for 2024

Professionally, continuing to grow our team, profile, and client base. Our firm has ambitious plans to be one of the UK’s leading business law firms and Manchester is a core location for us. To achieve that we need to continue delivering high – quality, cost effective, advice and support to clients on their business – critical legal matters. We also need to attract and nurture the best legal talent and continue to innovate.

Personally, to stay happy, healthy and get my middle child settled into her first year of secondary school!

6. What do you think are the most important things going on in Manchester at the moment?

The continued push to be seen as a serious global business location and to encourage investment from both inside and outside the region. That takes a huge co-ordinated effort across everything from government, transport, education, infrastructure, to finance and professional services. We need to keep the Sir Howard spirit.

7. Favourite meeting place in Manchester

The Octagon Lounge in the Midland  – just for the sense of history and how many important Mancs might have passed through.

8. Are there any particular types of businesses that you would like to meet

Everyone from investors, ambitious start-ups, and scale-ups through to large established businesses. Anyone who (or whose clients) might need advice and guidance with their important legal projects and questions.

Get In Touch

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +44 (0)3700 865 547

LinkedIn: Luke Stubbs | LinkedIn