Gareth Stokes named Global Co-Chair of DLA Piper's Technology Sector team

Global law firm DLA Piper today announces that effective as of 1 January 2025, UK-based partner Gareth Stokes will succeed Mark O'Conor as Global Co-Chair and International Sector Head of the firm's Technology Sector team. Gareth will join fellow Global Co-Chairs, Erin Gibson (San Diego) and Trent Dykes (Seattle).

This leadership change follows Mark O'Conor's appointment to the firm's Executive Committee as Managing Director for Sectors, a role overseeing the International sector offering and go-to-market strategy.

Gareth joined DLA Piper in 2008 and most recently led the firm's Technology Sector team in the UK. His practice sees him advising on complex transactions, contracting and outsourcing projects and the development and strategic rollout of AI programmes for global organisations, while internally he has co-led the firm's 450-strong AI working group.

Mark O'Conor joined in 2005 and has been the Technology International Sector Head and Global Co-Chair since 2022. Prior to this he was the UK Country Managing Partner (between 2013 and 2015). Mark regularly advises multinational corporations and governments on outsourcing, public procurement, digital transformation, cloud computing and AI matters.

Mark O'Conor commented:  "As I transition into my new role, I'd like to thank Gareth for all he has done to support me during my tenure as Global Co-Chair. I know that he, Erin and Trent are extremely well placed to realise and build upon our technology sector strategy.

"Having been fortunate enough to work closely with Gareth for a number of years, particularly throughout his leadership of the UK technology sector and international AI groups, I'm excited to see the new heights to which his deep sectoral knowledge, strong vision and reputation in and outside of the firm will take the team." 

Gareth Stokes added: "Our technology sector team continues to go from strength to strength, advising global organisations and regulators alike at the forefront of innovations in AI, datacentres, and digital transformation, to name but a few. And remaining on the curve providing our clients with cutting edge insight and solutions against an ever-shifting global regulatory landscape.

"Thanks to the leadership of Mark, Erin and Trent, and the ever-impressive work of my DLA Piper colleagues, I can look forward to Co-Chairing a high-performing, and highly regarded function as it continues to grow and achieve."