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TECHNOLOGY
Freshfields — setting the scene
Freshfields is one of the oldest global law firms with a ‘ onefirm ’ mindset .
Whether it is supporting businesses on entering new markets , defending corporate reputation or managing multi-jurisdictional regulation , Freshfields has worked for some of the world ’ s largest organisations through its 275-year history .
Among the company ’ s recent successful client case studies are Mastercard , Fraport , AB InBev , BT-EE and First Abu Dhabi Bank . In terms of the technological setup , around half of the company ’ s technology-focussed staff are based in Manchester , with regional tech hubs in London , New York , Hong Kong , Berlin and Frankfurt . These centres service 27 Freshfields offices around the world .
I saw as a very attractive attribute , as a technologist , to follow .”
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Grainger is the first to admire the immense legacy of Freshfields , citing Charles Babbage , the brain behind the Difference Engine brass computer , a machine so complicated that it couldn ’ t be built in the pioneer ’ s lifetime .
“ Freshfields was already 50 years old when he was born , just to give you an idea of the span that the company has covered ,” Grainger adds . “ That ’ s something to be celebrated and , speaking from personal experience , the culture here is a culture of pursuit . We don ’ t accept the status quo , and we strive for excellence .”
So , what must the industry and Freshfields do to ensure they thrive for another 275 years ?
For Grainger , creating a frictionless user experience for clients , fee earners and business service personnel forms the essence of his mission as CIO , fostering an environment where technology can be developed to ensure a sustainable , competitive advantage . “ I think the key point , when you look
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